From timesnownews.com
For people suffering from diabetes, blood sugar levels are always a significant concern. However, many myths and misconceptions about blood sugar can lead to confusion and misinformation. Read on to know the real picture
New Delhi: A diagnosis of diabetes can change your life. While it is confusing for some, many people seem to be clueless about the next course of action. There is too much information available on the internet about the diet and lifestyle steps you must take to control your blood sugar levels.
However, everything on the internet is not true. There are many myths and wrong information that is floating around, which can make you feel depressed and lonely since there are bound to be too many restrictions. Let us bust some common myths and present your facts related to diabetes as explained by scientific studies.
Myth: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes
Fact: Even though sugar seems to be the main reason behind anyone getting diabetes, according to health experts, it is the number of calories that one has taken that is responsible for the weight gain and thus disturbed the metabolism of sugar in your body.
Rather than focusing on one food source, you should target maintaining a healthy weight and an active lifestyle.
Myth: People with diabetes should restrict eating fruits
Fact: Fruits are extremely healthy and help you keep fit. Even though fruits are higher in natural sugars than vegetables, they are lower in sugar than bakery products like cakes, biscuits, and sweets. Fruits are also packed with lots of nourishing nutrients and fibre.
According to the American Diabetes Association, many types of fruit are loaded with vitamins and minerals, as well as fibre, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and decrease your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/carbohydrates/fiber/#ref21
So eat lots of berries, tart cherries, peaches, apricots, apples, and oranges without any fear.
Myth: You cannot drink alcohol if you have diabetes
Fact: Even though alcohol is not considered good for anyone, you can drink alcohol even if you have diabetes. But according to health experts, you need to stay within the recommendations of no more than 14 units in a week.
If you do drink this much, make sure that you have some alcohol-free days in the week too.
Myth: Avoid Rice completely
Fact: The glycaemic index of Rice is higher than wheat, which means it raises blood sugar levels faster. So, it is commonly believed that rice should be avoided as part of meals while managing diabetes.
However, according to health experts, many foods have low GI but are not preferred food items for diabetic patients, like potato chips. Being high in fat and low in overall nutrition is not advisable.
Myth: Follow the Keto diet for diabetes
Fact: A Keto diet or low-carb diet is extremely high in fats and low in carbs. The Keto diet shows noticeable effects on diabetic patients by reducing weight and improving insulin resistance in the body, but to date, it has not been proven on account of its efficacy and sustainability in the long run.
Doctors believe that rather than cutting down carbs completely, you must focus on a diet plan which is more sustainable and improves blood glucose levels.
Myth: Only heavy and obese people get diabetes
Fact: An overweight or obese person will have more chances of contracting diabetes but that does not mean that only obese individuals can suffer from the ailment.
The doctors say more than overall body fat percentage, the distribution of fat between visceral and subcutaneous fat stores is considered as important factor to assess the risk.
Myth: Low blood sugar is not a concern
Fact: Low blood sugar, or hypoglycaemia, is a very serious concern for individuals with diabetes.
It can cause confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death. And so, it is important to regularly monitor blood sugar levels and take appropriate action to prevent low blood sugar episodes.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
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