UNESA Nutrition Lecturer Says Diabetes is Not Only About Sugar Consumption
Unesa.ac.id, SURABAYA-Many people think diabetes mellitus is solely caused by excessive sugar consumption. However, diabetes mellitus is not just a matter of sugar, but is the result of various factors that are closely related to carbohydrate metabolism disorders and unhealthy lifestyles.
This was conveyed by Desty Muzarofatus Sholikhah, lecturer in Nutrition Science, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences (FIKK), Surabaya State University (UNESA). Desty said diabetes is caused by carbohydrate metabolism disorders involving the pancreas and the hormone insulin.
The pancreas has an important role in producing the hormone insulin which functions to carry glucose to the body's cells as the main source of energy. This glucose is obtained from the daily diet, especially those containing carbohydrates.
In healthy individuals, insulin works effectively to keep blood glucose levels stable. However, in people with diabetes, the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin, or the insulin produced does not function properly.
“This causes glucose to remain in the blood and not be absorbed by the body's cells, resulting in high blood sugar levels,” she adds.
Many people only focus on sugar, while simple carbohydrates from everyday foods such as rice, bread, and snacks that are high in carbohydrates also contribute greatly to increasing blood glucose levels.
However, carbohydrate and sugar consumption are not the only factors. Apart from diet, obesity or being overweight also affects insulin sensitivity. Obese people are more prone to insulin resistance, due to inflammation in the body that affects carbohydrate metabolism.
“This chronic inflammation can interfere with the work of insulin so that glucose cannot be optimally utilized by the body,” she added.
Desty emphasizes that blood sugar levels in diabetics can remain stable by living a healthy lifestyle. For diabetics whose blood sugar levels are already stable, daily sugar consumption should not exceed two tablespoons.
Healthy Lifestyle is the Key
Desty also highlighted that the human body does not actually need sweets specifically. The need for sweets is more often due to personal desires rather than biological needs.
As an alternative to sugar, some diabetics choose natural sweeteners such as stevia. According to her, the use of stevia can indeed be a better option for diabetics, but it should be used with caution.
“Although stevia is considered safer, it is best to still manage your diet well and not rely on artificial or natural sweeteners in the long run,” she added.
Regarding genetic factors, the Lamongan-born lecturer emphasized that the influence of genetics is not as great as lifestyle. Even if someone has a family history of diabetes, a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
The culture of diet and physical activity in Indonesian society is also a factor that affects the increase in the number of people with diabetes. The culture of exercise has not really entered into daily habits. Many people still think that exercising is not important, and even activities such as walking are often underestimated.
“Exercise is not just for fitness, but it is also important to maintain the body's metabolism and prevent insulin resistance. With regular exercise, blood glucose levels can be more stable and insulin sensitivity can be improved,” she explains.
The main key to preventing diabetes mellitus is a healthy lifestyle. The nutrition lecturer hopes that people will be more aware that diabetes is not just about sugar, but also closely related to diet, physical activity, and daily habits. [*]
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Reporter: Muhammad Dian Purnama (FMIPA)
Editor: @zam*
Photo: Nataliya Vaitkevich/Pixels.com
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