Low Potassium Causes Diabetes! OMG Help Me Doc! Is That Really True?

Nutrition Corner with Dr D

Low Potassium Causes Diabetes! OMG Help Me Doc! Is That Really True?

Today we're going to talk about whether low potassium really causes diabetes. Now, I don't want to attack anyone personally, but seeing these various health gurus claiming that low potassium causes diabetes really gets my blood boiling. As someone with a background in nutrition, herbal medicine, and Western medicine, I believe in taking a holistic approach to managing medical conditions. However, I can't endorse claims that lack scientific basis. Unfortunately, some people profit from picking out rare correlations and presenting them as causation. Just because there may be links between potassium and diabetes, for example, it doesn't mean that a deficiency in potassium automatically causes diabetes. Statements like this are taken out of context and serve only to distract us from the real issue. It's frustrating to see these types of videos and articles circulating because they misinform the public and ultimately, they do more harm than good.

So why don't I believe that low potassium causes diabetes?

First things first, believing these claims is like sitting in a room with a huge elephant in the middle, but completely ignoring it. It's just not accurate. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels due to a lack of insulin production or the body's inability to use insulin effectively.

 

While low potassium levels can cause a range of symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats, it is not a known cause of diabetes. What these gurus are referring to is the results of several studies that suggest that increasing potassium intake may help improve insulin sensitivity and lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

But that's not only because of potassium by itself. Its largely because potassium is found in foods like fruits, vegetables, and legumes which by themselves can help improve overall quality of someone’s diet by substituting them for junk food which is loaded with sugar and promoting a healthy weight, which are the most important factors in preventing diabetes.

 

In fact, a holistic approach is needed to manage any medical condition, and diabetes is no exception. Diabetes is a complex disease that involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

 

So, what are the major causes of diabetes?

There are many reasons why someone can develop diabetes, but today let's focus on the four most significant ones.

 

First up, obesity. Several studies have found that excess body weight, especially abdominal fat, increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Each 5-kg increase in body weight was associated with a 31% higher risk of type 2 diabetes. That's a huge number!

 

Secondly, a sedentary lifestyle is another significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Physical inactivity leads to decreased insulin sensitivity and impaired glucose metabolism. Each 2.5 hours per week increase in moderate-intensity physical activity was associated with a 9% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

 

Thirdly, an unhealthy diet high in refined carbohydrates, added sugars, and saturated fats can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Each additional daily serving of sugar-sweetened beverages was associated with a 13% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

 

Finally, genetics also play a role. Certain genetic variants can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, lifestyle factors, such as diet and physical activity, still play a more significant role in the development of type 2 diabetes than genetics.

So how do I look at the genetic risks that can make people more prone to certain diseases, such as diabetes?

Think of genetics like carrying a loaded gun - just because you possess the genetic predisposition for a disease, it doesn't mean that the genes will automatically trigger it. You still have a significant amount of control over your genetic risks. It's like having a loaded gun in your pocket - you have the choice not to pull the trigger. So don't use your genes as an excuse for giving up. Yes, fighting genetic risks may require more effort, but it's still possible to overcome them. Don't let the fear of genetics hold you back - you have the power to take control of your health and well-being."

 

So, there you have it, guys. Low potassium does not cause diabetes, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors do. Remember to take care of your body by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.

by Dr. Michal Domeny DNP, L.Ac, CD/N