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| - Last Updated on January 20, 2025 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that drinking tomato juice can cure diabetes within 6 months to one year. We fact checked and found the claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
An instagram video by the name fried_moni says that within 6 months to one year, diabetes can be cured by drinking tomato juice. The post has received 172,278 likes as of the fact check. The video claims that drinking tomato juice can cure diabetes.
Fact Check
Is tomato juice a cure for diabetes?
No, tomato juice cannot cure diabetes.
Despite what some may say, drinking tomato juice isn’t a magical fix for diabetes. While it may offer some health benefits, it’s not a cure-all for this chronic condition. Diabetes is a complex disease that involves blood sugar regulation and insulin, and it cannot be “cured” by any single food or drink.
In an interview with THIP Media, renowned diabetologist Dr. V Mohan spoke about the diabetes reversal products and programs advertised on social media. He remarked, “Many of the people promoting these programs are not medical professionals, but business owners using unverified methods for diabetes reversal. Several of these approaches are not sustainable, and some may even pose risks to health.”
Dr. Ashirwad Pawar, Diabetologist at Sai Aashirwad Hospital in Mumbai, states, “There is no fast solution for diabetes. While Type 2 diabetes can sometimes be controlled with lifestyle adjustments or medication, it cannot be ‘cured’ in the conventional sense. Claims of instant cures are deceptive and lack scientific evidence.”
Dr. Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician at Holy Mission Clinic in New Delhi, explains, “Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management through lifestyle changes, regular exercise, and medical treatment. Evidence-based care, including prescribed medications and monitoring, is crucial for effective control. No home remedy or quick fix can replace these proven methods, and relying on unverified treatments can delay proper care and worsen the condition.”
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Can tomato juice help manage blood sugar levels?
It might help slightly, but it’s not a solution on its own.
Tomato juice does have a low glycaemic index (GI), meaning it has less of an impact on blood sugar compared to high-GI foods. This is a positive factor for those with diabetes, as foods with lower GIs can help prevent spikes in blood sugar. Additionally, tomatoes are rich in vitamins like Vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene, which can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
A 2020 study investigated the effects of drinking tomato juice 30 minutes before a carbohydrate-rich meal on blood glucose levels, comparing it to drinking water. The results showed that blood glucose levels were significantly lower at 60 minutes (2.32 mmol/L with tomato juice vs. 2.97 mmol/L with water), 90 minutes (2.36 mmol/L with tomato juice vs. 3.23 mmol/L with water), and at the overall glucose peak (2.77 mmol/L with tomato juice vs. 3.68 mmol/L with water). While the glucose peak with tomato juice (2.82 mmol/L) was lower than with water, the difference was not statistically significant. However, no significant differences in blood glucose levels were observed after participants consumed lunch over the following three days. The findings suggest that tomato juice may have a modest effect on reducing postprandial blood glucose levels in the short term but no lasting impact on blood sugar after meals.
Does tomato juice help insulin sensitivity?
It may have a mild effect, but not enough for a significant impact.
Some studies suggest that tomatoes or their components, like lycopene, might have a small role in improving insulin sensitivity. Insulin sensitivity refers to how well your body responds to insulin, which is crucial for managing blood sugar levels. However, the effect of tomato juice on insulin sensitivity is far from revolutionary. It’s unlikely to be the game-changer for diabetes that some people claim it to be. More research is needed to confirm these effects, and even then, no one food will drastically alter the course of diabetes on its own.
Can tomato juice be part of a healthy diet for diabetics?
Yes, tomato juice can be part of a healthy diet, but with moderation. Tomato juice, when consumed in moderation, can be a great addition to a balanced diet. It’s low in calories and rich in essential nutrients, which can support overall health. However, if you’re managing diabetes, it’s important to be cautious with portion sizes and avoid juices with added sugars. The key is integrating tomato juice as part of a varied and balanced meal plan, not relying on it as a standalone treatment.
Should diabetics rely on tomato juice for managing their condition?
No, diabetics should not rely on tomato juice alone to manage their diabetes.
While tomato juice can offer some health benefits, it’s not a comprehensive solution for managing diabetes. The key to managing diabetes lies in a combination of factors—regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, following a prescribed medication plan, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fibre, lean proteins, and healthy fats, and staying active. Using tomato juice as a supplement to this balanced lifestyle is okay, but it should never replace professional medical treatment or the broader components of diabetes management.
Dr. Ayush Chandra, a diabetes specialist and founder of Nivaran Health in Delhi NCR, emphasizes that effective diabetes management goes beyond a single approach. It includes proper use of medications and insulin, as needed and under a doctor’s guidance. Furthermore, it’s important to follow a balanced diet with essential nutrients, stay active, remain hydrated, focus on mental health, and regularly monitor blood sugar levels.
In Conclusion
Tomato juice is not a cure for diabetes, and while it may offer a small boost in terms of health benefits, it should not be viewed as a miracle solution. Managing diabetes requires a multifaceted approach, with no single food or drink making a significant difference on its own. Be cautious of claims that suggest otherwise, and always consult your doctor for personalised advice.
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