Feature Photo Source: Unsplash, Joseph Gonzalez
As I shared my own health concerns with family and friends, so too they shared their concerns with me. In some cases we discovered that we had similar health concerns and we begin to share notes on our own individual journeys with our health concerns. What worked. What did not work. What we did not like. Things that just did not seem to add up and be viable options for a real solution nor good health. A few of these conversations surrounded diabetes or the danger of becoming a diabetic.
As the data from the CDC shows us from 2018 African Americans have relatively high percentages as it relates to other racial groups in the data set they provided. As you might have guessed one of the things they (family, friends and their health professionals) wanted to tackle in order to avoid becoming diabetic was to change their diets. In this case Help Guide states there are some common myths about diabetes that we should consider. They state that their is no special diet needed for diabetics. Specifically they stated “As with any healthy eating program, a diabetic diet is more about your overall dietary pattern rather than obsessing over specific foods. Aim to eat more natural, unprocessed food and less packaged and convenience foods.”
We agree that more natural or organic as well as unprocessed foods such as packaged and convenience foods do not promote good health and are not the cornerstones of a proper diet. Again we have another source confirming this belief. Here are a couple beliefs about diabetes they (Health Guide) say are myths:
Source: CDC 2019. Summary Health Statistics: National Health Interview Survey: 2018. Table A-4a. Shidonna Raven Garden and Cook
Myth: You must avoid sugar at all costs.
Fact: You can enjoy your favorite treats as long as you plan properly and limit hidden sugars. Dessert doesn’t have to be off limits, as long as it’s a part of a healthy meal plan.
Myth: You have to cut way down on carbs.
Fact: The type of carbohydrates you eat as well as serving size is key. Focus on whole grain carbs instead of starchy carbs since they’re high in fiber and digested slowly, keeping blood sugar levels more even.
Myth: You’ll need special diabetic meals.
Fact: The principles of healthy eating are the same—whether or not you’re diabetic. Expensive diabetic foods generally offer no special benefit.
Myth: A high-protein diet is best.
Fact: Studies have shown that eating too much protein, especially animal protein, may actually cause insulin resistance, a key factor in diabetes. A healthy diet includes protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Our bodies need all three to function properly. The key is a balanced diet.
Were any of your myths dispelled? How has your diet affected your health or how you feel day to day? What are your health concerns? What did you think of the CDC data? Share your comments with the community by posting them below. Share the wealth and health with your friends and family by sharing this article with 3 people today. As always you are the best part of what we do. Stay healthy.
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