I’m Done Blaming Myself For Having Diabetes
You should be done too and here’s why
Envision a world where humans roam freely, unencumbered by clothing, surrounded by the bounties of nature. In this idyllic setting, every necessity for life — food, water, and shelter — is readily available, creating a (healthy) utopian paradise. Picture diverse individuals, each with their own unique characteristics, living harmoniously amidst a landscape abundant with whole foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, and grass-fed meats.
However, as time progresses, the scope of this paradise gives way to the encroachment of modern civilization. Traditional activities such as gardening and communal gatherings are overshadowed by the relentless expansion of urban cities, fueled by the destruction of natural habitats. Accessing fresh, nutritious foods becomes increasingly difficult, with factories replacing traditional farms and vital farming knowledge fading with each passing generation.
In this new urban landscape, the demands of work consume our lives, leaving little time for leisure or proper nutrition. Convenience foods become the norm, and the microwave becomes both a time-saving device and a symbol of our disconnect from wholesome, homemade meals. Desserts, once lovingly prepared by family members, are now hastily purchased from store shelves.
We find ourselves trapped in routines, blindly following daily rituals without considering the nutritional value of our meals. Yet, amidst this monotony, a silent epidemic emerges: Type 2 Diabetes. While Type 1 Diabetes has been known since ancient times, Type 2 becomes increasingly prevalent among adults due to sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary choices.
Living in a society where unhealthy, high-carb foods are abundant, we seek solace in their fleeting comfort. But as diabetes rates soar, we are forced to confront a troubling question: is it time to worry? In the bible we are told not to worry over what we eat or wear. Perhaps because the food back then was more real than today?
With a diagnosis of diabetes last year, I reflect on my own journey and realize that perhaps, in striving for normalcy, I inadvertently invited this disease into my life.
For example, in the past we followed the food pyramid, which eliminated fats and told us to use sugar sparingly. We were also told over the years to avoid fat. However, in avoiding fat, we ate low fat foods that were filled with…
You guessed it —
Sugar.
Oops.
Is diabetes solely our fault? The answer is not clear-cut. While we cannot entirely absolve ourselves of responsibility, our upbringing in a culture that prioritizes convenience over nutrition and perpetuates misconceptions about fats and sugars, has undoubtedly played a role. Armed with newfound knowledge, we are now tasked with sharing it and making more informed choices.
In conclusion, while we may not be solely to blame for the rise of diabetes, awareness and action are imperative moving forward. Let us break free from the shackles of convenience and reclaim our health for a brighter, diabetes-free future.
Thank you for taking the time to read!
Are you as concerned as I am about the chronic illnesses prevailing in America?
If you are and you enjoyed this piece, feel free to contribute to My Dear Diabetes Wellness Page. Hope to see you there!