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How Diet Trends Mislead People With Diabetes, Expert Weighs In
In today's digital age, when social media influencers and bloggers have a significant impact on people's lifestyle choices, it is crucial to discern what can be trusted and what can't. In the process of debunking the notion that healthy food cannot be tasty, influencers are introducing new alternatives for people with diabetes. However, almost none of these are as healthy as they appear on social media. They are nothing but exaggerated promises, and unquestioningly believing them can be dangerous.
We spoke to Dr Rajmadhangi D, MBBS, MD (General Medicine), Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai, who explained how these viral diet trends often mislead people with diabetes and why personalised nutrition matters far more than internet advice.
Why Personalised Nutrition Matters
Improvements in your diet can impact your blood sugar levels, decrease the need for medications, and even induce remission in Type 2 diabetes when the diet reflects an individual's lifestyle.
"Type 2 diabetes is a complex, multifactorial condition where various factors, including weight, stress, dietary habits, physical activity, and sleep, are all critical considerations. It does not employ a one-size-fits-all approach, which contributes to the danger of misperceiving these trends. What is best for the other person may even be the worst thing for your body," explained Dr Rajmadhangi.
1. Low-Carb Diets
Diets containing fewer carbohydrates are often the most widely recommended by influencers. Reducing the quantity of carbs has shown significant results, including improved HbA1c levels within the first 3-6 months, weight loss, reduced need for certain diabetes medications, and even remission in some early-stage type 2 diabetes cases, said Dr Rajmadhangi.
However, what the influencers often overlook is that these benefits typically last for only a year. The problem is that for people on insulin or sulfonylureas, drastically cutting carbs from their diet can trigger dangerous hypoglycemia if the medications aren't adjusted for this diet change.
2. Intermittent Fasting
This has become quickly popular among the social media community. "There are promises of insulin reversal and weight loss associated with this technique, and it does have its benefits, including reduced body weight, improved insulin sensitivity, and lower HbA1c levels in the short term. That being said, there is no data yet to prove that this has long-term benefits," added Dr Rajmadhangi.
People on glucose medication shouldn't randomly skip meals or fast without proper instructions from their medical supervisor, as it can result in severe lows. This is why, even if you want to implement intermittent fasting, it must be done with a structured fasting protocol drafted by medical professionals, ensuring it's well-suited for your body.
3. Plant Only
Vegan diets are amongst the ones recommended for not just diabetes, but for a lot of conditions. While these diets can have a significant effect on your overall health, they are not a cure. Studies indicate that these diets improve glycemic control, reduce cardiovascular risk, support weight loss, and improve markers of inflammation, among other benefits. Misinformation occurs when they claim to replace medication. Many of these formulated diets overlook the importance of protein, vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and iron intake.
4. Beyond Trends: What Actually Drives Remission
"There is a strong evidence that shows that significant weight loss has led to remission, especially during the early stages of Type 2 diabetes in some individuals. However, it is not low-carb or no-keto diets that are the one-size-fits-all solution; it is sustained weight loss and reduced fat in the liver and pancreas," said Dr Rajmadhangi.
Apart from this, the diabetic supplements market seems to be booming. The problem with these is that they over advertise small benefits. Using terms like 'clinically proven' or 'scientifically tested' to make weak evidence sound authoritative.
Bottomline
Dr Rajmadhangi concluded, "Many more trends come and go, but it's essential to stay informed about what could benefit your body. However, it is also necessary to keep an open mind and not blindly follow anything just because it's trendy. Follow the trends, but individualise them based on your own needs."
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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