Clearing the Fog: Dispelling Common Diabetes Myths in Singapore

Did you know that some of your beliefs about diabetes may be false? Despite the Ministry of Health Singapore (MOH) initiatives to raise public awareness about diabetes, the chronic condition is still widespread in Singapore, and many people do not understand it well. Unfortunately, misinformation and misconceptions surrounding diabetes contribute to confusion about this common chronic disease. As a diabetes epidemic is currently raging in Singapore — over 400,000 Singaporeans currently have diabetes and its incidence is expected to rise — it is important for us to understand the disease better. 

Diabetes (diabetes mellitus) is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. This article, by Dr Vikram Sonawane at Harmony Thyroid, Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre will provide a general guide to the prevalent myths about diabetes and illuminate interesting facts about its prevention, diagnosis, and management.

Prevention of Diabetes

Myth 1: A No-Sugar Diet Guarantees Protection Against Diabetes

Many people in Singapore believe in the myth that going "cold turkey" on sugar (i.e. eliminating sugar from one's diet entirely) is a surefire way to prevent the onset of diabetes, which has a grain of truth. Consuming more than ten teaspoons of sugar daily is indeed a major cause of elevated diabetes risk. Excessive sugar intake contributes to insulin resistance, obesity, inflammation, and strain in the pancreas, all of which increase the risk of developing diabetes. This justifies the compulsory Nutri-Grade labelling indicating the level of sugar and saturated fat in drinks to discourage people in Singapore from drinking beverages high in sugar. 

Nonetheless, such a myth does not provide the whole picture as it neglects other risk factors for diabetes. Banning sugar consumption reduces rather than eliminates one’s risk of developing diabetes.

Myth 2: The Ketogenic Diet Ensures People Do Not Develop Diabetes

Another widespread misconception is that embracing a ketogenic diet, characterised by reduced carbohydrates and increased fat consumption, eliminates the possibility of developing diabetes. The ketogenic diet can help people to lose weight quickly, mitigating one of diabetes's risk factors. In some cases,  keto meals potentially help regulate blood sugar levels as well, but they are not a magical panacea for diabetes. 

The high-fat keto diet can significantly increase the levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) cholesterol over time, which may raise the risk of diabetes. Therefore, the keto diet is not suitable for everyone.

Takeaway on Dietary Choices for Diabetes

Your dietary choices should be tailored to individual needs and monitored under the guidance of doctors, as a no-sugar or ketogenic diet may not be suitable for everyone. Diabetes prevention involves adopting a holistic approach to health, such as maintaining a well-balanced diet loaded with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, regular physical activity, and weight management.

Diagnosis of Diabetes

Myth 1: Absence of Symptoms Indicates the Absence of Diabetes

Many individuals mistakenly assume that the absence of noticeable symptoms guarantees the absence of diabetes. However, diabetes is a “silent” disease that can remain asymptomatic, especially in its early stages. Thus, you may feel perfectly well until complications happen. As such, a significant portion of people are unaware they have diabetes. 

Regular health screenings, including blood glucose tests and routine check-ups, are recommended for individuals aged 40 and above once every three years. Those with risk factors, such as family history or unhealthy lifestyle habits, may need to get screened for diabetes more often.

Management of Diabetes

Myth 1: Individuals With Diabetes Cannot Enjoy Sugary Foods and Carbohydrates At All

Contrary to popular belief, individuals with diabetes can typically include sugary foods and carbohydrates in their diet, provided they practice moderation. Consuming sugary foods occasionally is acceptable when integrated into a nutritious eating regimen, accompanied by a physically active lifestyle and consistent monitoring of blood glucose levels. Similarly, patients with diabetes don't have to stay entirely clear of carbohydrates, as reducing carbohydrate portion size is usually adequate. For instance, as a rule of thumb, ask for half a serving of rice or noodles when eating out. 

Myth 2: Bitter Gourd Juice Is a Cure for Diabetes

Bitter gourd juice is often hailed as a natural remedy for diabetes, particularly within the Indian community. According to a 2017 study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, bitter gourd juice may be beneficial in Type II diabetes mellitus patients to lower the blood glucose level. Nonetheless, its efficacy as a diabetes treatment or cure needs to be supported by further large randomised control trials.

Takeaway

Effective diabetes management involves a multifaceted approach encompassing not only dietary modifications, but also medication, and lifestyle adjustments. If you are newly diagnosed with diabetes or have difficulty controlling it, consulting diabetes doctors (i.e. endocrinologists specialised in diabetes) in Singapore can help.

Visit Harmony Thyroid, Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre 

In conclusion, dispelling common myths about diabetes is pivotal for fostering accurate understanding and empowering individuals to manage the condition effectively. By embracing evidence-based practices and seeking guidance from diabetes specialists in Singapore, people can proactively safeguard their health and well-being.

Senior Consultant Endocrinologist Dr Vikram Sonawane and his Team at Harmony are committed to supporting you on your journey to understanding, managing, and thriving despite diabetes. Harmony is part of the Beyond Medical Group, a collective of medical specialists that has also been ranked as one of Singapore’s Top 100 Fastest-Growing Companies for 2024. For more in-depth information, feel free to book a consultation with Dr Vikram to explore Harmony’s comprehensive services and stay informed on the latest developments in diabetes care.

Harmony Thyroid, Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre Website:  https://www.endocrineharmony.sg/ 

‌Dr Vikram Sonawane Profile: https://www.endocrineharmony.sg/dr-vikram/ 

Appointment Line: (65) 9834 9533

Email: info@endocrineharmony.sg