Once Diabetes is There, It Won't Go Away; Do You Have These 5 Misconceptions? The article highlights five common misconceptions about diabetes, debunking myths with scientific explanations and expert insights. It emphasizes the importance of accurate information for managing the condition effectively. Misconception 1: People with diabetes can eat apples but must avoid bananas. Reality: Bananas contain natural sugars (fructose), but their glycemic index is low. The American Diabetes Association allows bananas as part of a balanced diet. They also provide essential minerals that help regulate blood pressure. Misconception 2: Sugar substitutes in tea are safer than regular sugar. Reality: Sugar substitutes in tea or coffee are not safer than regular sugar. In fact, processed snacks like biscuits often contain harmful additives such as trans fats and preservatives. People with diabetes should avoid these snacks entirely. While drinking tea or coffee with a small amount of sugar is acceptable, adding biscuits as a accompaniment is discouraged. Misconception 3: People with diabetes must completely avoid fats and oils. Reality: This is a misconception. Pure oils and fats, such as those found in olive oil or avocados, contain essential fatty acids that support heart health and digestive function. These nutrients are vital for overall well-being. People with diabetes should include healthy fats in moderation as part of their diet. Misconception 4: Walking is the best form of exercise for people with diabetes. Reality: While daily walking is beneficial, it is not the most effective exercise for diabetes management. Nutritionist Ruju Divakkar recommends strength-training exercises that build muscle mass. Muscle tissue improves insulin sensitivity, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.#blood_sugar #diabetes #american_diabetes_association #ruju_divakkar #indian_express_malayalam
Govt to screen all children for diabetes, roll out free lifelong care under RBSK #Govt #diabetes #RBSK #free_lifelong #lifelong_care
Metformin, the widely used diabetes drug, may have effects beyond blood sugar regulation, according to new research. Scientists at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that the medication influences brain activity by inhibiting a protein known as Rap1 in regions responsible for managing energy and glucose levels. Experiments with mice lacking this protein revealed that metformin’s effects were diminished, highlighting the critical role of the brain in the drug’s mechanism. The study identified that SF1 neurons, a specific type of brain cell, become activated when metformin is introduced into the central nervous system. This finding suggests these neurons are directly involved in the drug’s therapeutic action, potentially opening new pathways for diabetes treatment. By targeting brain activity, researchers speculate that metformin could be repurposed or combined with other therapies to address metabolic disorders more effectively. Additionally, the research may explain why metformin has been associated with slower brain aging. The drug’s ability to modulate neural pathways could have broader implications for neurodegenerative conditions or cognitive health. Scientists are now exploring how this old medication might unlock unexpected benefits, emphasizing the need for further studies to unravel its full potential. The discovery underscores the complexity of drug mechanisms and the importance of considering the brain’s role in metabolic diseases.#baylor_college_of_medicine #rap1_protein #sf1_neurons #metformin #diabetes
