You have a continuous glucose monitor tracking your blood sugar levels and now you’re feeling stressed because they are high. However, you may be misinformed about what this means. Brown rice can increase your blood sugar levels, but does this mean you should give up carbs or try a shot of vinegar? The flood of information from social media influencers can leave you feeling confused. Yes, blood sugar levels are important for overall health, and there are valid recommendations for optimizing them, but it’s easy to get lost in social media trends.
To help clarify some common myths about diabetes and blood sugar, we’ve consulted experts in the field:
1. **Myth:** Higher weight automatically leads to diabetes.
**Expert opinion:** Weight is not the sole factor influencing diabetes risk. Other factors like age, family history, and physical activity also play a role.
2. **Myth:** People with diabetes can’t eat any carbs.
**Expert opinion:** Nutrition for those with diabetes is nuanced and includes carbohydrates. Avoiding carbs entirely can lead to increased cravings and fatigue.
3. **Myth:** Sugar-free foods are ideal for those with diabetes.
**Expert opinion:** Sugar-free foods may contain high levels of sodium or fat, and some ingredients can still affect blood glucose levels. Opt for foods naturally lower in added sugar.
4. **Myth:** Continuous glucose monitors are helpful even for those without diabetes.
**Expert opinion:** CGMs may provide unnecessary and potentially confusing information for individuals without diabetes, leading to unnecessary stress.
To get accurate information about diabetes, look to reliable sources such as doctors, dietitians specializing in diabetes, governmental health organizations, or diabetes-focused non-profits. Remember, managing diabetes is not a one-size-fits-all approach and can be individualized. Ensure your social media feed provides you with factual and inspiring content that helps you make informed choices about your health.
