Diabetes and the Internet: How to Know What’s Accurate – And What Isn’t 

The internet has a lot to say about diabetes. Some of it is useful, rooted in science and health. Plenty of it, however, is uninformed, opinion-based and sometimes flat-out wrong.  

That presents a challenge: How do you determine what’s accurate information and what isn’t?  

Here are a few tips that can help you do just that. 👇 

Look at the Source 

Identifying the source of diabetes-related information is the first step in determining its accuracy and quality. Does the information come from a medical organization like a hospital or a research university? Does it come from a company that specializes in diabetes care? Or does it come from a blog that you’re only just hearing of for the first time? Does the author have any credentials? Is there an author at all?!?!  

Check for Evidence 

Reliable diabetes information is usually backed by research or shared by medical professionals. Are there clinical studies? Are there medical experts supporting the claims you are reading? Also, look for well known health organizations mentioned, or doctors who specialize in diabetes care. If a post does not explain where the information comes from, it may be based on opinion rather than facts. 

Avoid “Too Good to be True” Promises  

Diabetes unfortunately does not have a quick fix, even if a trend promises fast results. Extreme diets or miracle cures can be risky and may cause blood sugar swings or other health issues. If something sounds overly simple or promises instant success, most of the time, it probably is too good to be true. 

Compare Information Across Trusted Websites 

Do your due diligence! One social media post or blog does not always tell the full story. Try to see if the same advice shows up on trusted health websites or diabetes organizations. When multiple reliable sources share similar information, it is more likely to be accurate and safe. 

Save Questions and Talk Them Over with Your Doctor or Caretaker 

If you come across a trend that interests or worries you, write it down or save the link and bring it to your next appointment. Doctors, diabetes educators, and caretakers can help explain how the information applies to your specific needs. These conversations can prevent confusion and help you make informed choices with confidence. 

Examples of Diabetes Disinformation 

Information promising cures or hacks or “little known tricks” deserve extra scrutiny – and the same can be said for content that makes blanket statements. For example, if you read that diabetes can be cured by herbs, special diets or supplements, you’re consuming something false.  

Content that sounds extra scary or dramatic is also likely misguided. Say you come across the following headline: “Is your Type 1 diabetes about to turn into Type 2?” Not only is that scientifically impossible, the tone of the headline is designed to elicit fear. This is otherwise known as “clickbait,” or content carefully tailored to win clicks by stirring up emotions. Less-than-reputable companies or individuals are often financially incentivized to do this, hoping that readers will then click on an ad or purchase a product. 

There is also plenty of disinformation around causes and treatments of diabetes, symptoms and perceptions and diet and lifestyle.  

Why Fact Check So Thoroughly? 

Ultimately, this is about your health and well-being. Following the guidance of uninformed content can negatively (or even severely!) impact your blood sugar, any medications you might be taking, stress levels and so much more.  

Bottom Line 

The internet is a great resource that can help people living with diabetes stay healthy. It’s also a place where anyone can say anything. The more thoughtful you are about what you’re consuming, who’s publishing it and what it’s suggesting, the better. And above all else, trust the people and organizations that have your health in their best interests.  

Author: Noelia Rivera-González, MS, RD, LDN, CDCES | CCS Health       

This site is for educational purposes only. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health.