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An Instagram post claims that oranges and lemons can help reverse diabetes within 3 days. Our fact check reveals it’s Mostly False.
The Claim
According to a post on Instagram, you can reverse high blood sugar levels by using oranges, lemons, ginger and turmeric. The post suggests consuming this drink everyday before bed to see a guaranteed difference in 3 days.
Fact Check
What is the role of oranges and lemons in a diabetic diet?
Oranges and lemons are excellent sources of vitamin C and fibre. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and grapefruit are rich in fibre and contain naringenin, a polyphenol with strong antidiabetic properties. Grapefruits have high levels of naringenin while oranges and lemons have considerably lower concentration of naringenin. So you might want to eat grapefruits for significant benefits.
Therefore, for individuals with diabetes, including fruits like oranges and lemons (or grapefruits) into their diet can support overall health and help manage blood sugar levels when combined with other lifestyle changes. However, they should not be viewed as a cure or a method to reverse the condition, especially within such a short span of time. Also, you should always keep in mind the concept of bio-individuality, which means the same food product can have different effects on different individuals. Each person’s body is unique, so what works well for one person in terms of diet, exercise, and lifestyle might not work the same way for someone else.
Can oranges and lemons reverse high blood sugar within 3 days?
No, they cannot. Oranges and lemons, while nutritious and beneficial, do not have the capacity to reverse diabetes, especially not within a mere three days. Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to elevated blood glucose levels, which, if left unmanaged, can cause serious health complications.
Reversing diabetes, or more accurately, achieving remission, is possible for some individuals but requires significant lifestyle changes over a prolonged period. It requires personalised professional guidance. These changes include dietary adjustments, regular physical activity, and, in many cases, medication. The idea that consuming a specific combination of foods, such as oranges and lemons, can reverse diabetes in such a short period is not true according to scientific evidence. Still, there are proven benefits like eating whole citrus fruits may enhance insulin sensitivity, lower HbA1c, and help protect against diabetes.
Dr Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, says, “Oranges and lemons are great for adding a burst of vitamin C and fibre to your diet, but expecting them to reverse diabetes in just three days isn’t realistic. Managing diabetes takes time, a balanced diet, and ongoing care. It’s important to be cautious of quick-fix claims, as they can distract from the real, effective steps needed to keep your health on track.”
Can ginger and turmeric contribute to diabetes management?
Not really. Ginger and turmeric have been studied for their potential effects on blood sugar control. Some research suggests that ginger may help improve insulin sensitivity, and turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory properties that might benefit metabolic health. However, it’s important to note that curcumin has low bioavailability, meaning it’s not easily absorbed by the body, especially when consumed without black pepper, which contains piperine that can enhance its absorption.
The effects of these spices are modest and should be viewed as part of a broader dietary and lifestyle approach. They are not miracle cures and should not be relied upon for quick changes in blood sugar levels or diabetes reversal.
What does science say about reversing diabetes?
The term “reversing diabetes” often refers to the possibility of achieving normal blood sugar levels without the need for medication. The medically correct term is known as remission. However, this is generally achievable only in the context of type 2 diabetes and requires significant, sustained lifestyle changes. Even then, remission is not guaranteed and does not occur quickly.
Current scientific understanding does not support the notion that any single food or combination of foods, such as oranges and lemons, can induce diabetes remission. Especially, not within a short timeframe like three days. The process of managing or potentially ‘reversing’ diabetes involves a complex interplay of diet, exercise, weight management, and medication under medical supervision.
What is the best approach to managing diabetes?
To manage diabetes effectively, a combination of a balanced diet, regular physical activity, careful monitoring of blood sugar levels is important. And, when required, medication is necessary. Consulting with healthcare professionals is important for developing a personalised management plan that is both safe and effective.
Incorporating fruits like oranges and lemons can be part of a healthy diet. However, they should not serve as a cure or a replacement for conventional diabetes treatments.
THIP Media Take
Oranges, lemons, ginger, and turmeric do have health benefits, but they cannot reverse diabetes within three days. Hence, the claim is mostly false. The idea of achieving such a quick turnaround in a chronic condition like diabetes is misleading. It also oversimplifies a complex health issue. Social media is full of various health claims related to diabetes. Some claim you can reverse diabetes type 2, and some suggest miraculous drugs for curing diabetes in 7 days. Few influencers go to the extent of recommending acupressure for treating diabetes without any scientific validation. Misinformation like this can lead individuals to delay or avoid necessary medical treatment, which can result in serious health consequences.
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