Before I could begin the nutrition session, the patient looked at me and said:

"Dietitian, people have already told me not to eat rice anymore. They said I should stop eating bread, yam, eba, semovita—almost every carbohydrate. They told me to just be eating beans."

I smiled because this wasn't the first time I had heard those words.

In fact, it's one of the most common misconceptions I encounter as a Clinical Dietitian.

The truth is, people living with diabetes do not need to completely eliminate carbohydrates. The focus should be on choosing appropriate portions, balancing meals with vegetables and lean protein, and eating consistently.

Rice isn't the enemy.

Bread isn't the enemy.

Yam isn't the enemy.

The real challenge is eating large portions of carbohydrate-rich foods without considering balance, fibre, protein, and overall lifestyle.

I also explained to the patient that beans are a healthy food, but they are not the only food people with diabetes should eat. Many people don't realize that beans also contain carbohydrates, so they, too, should be eaten in appropriate portions.

By the end of our discussion, the patient looked relieved and said,

"So I don't have to stop eating my favourite foods completely?"

My answer was simple:

"No. You don't have to fear food—you need to understand it."

As dietitians, one of our greatest responsibilities is helping people replace fear and misinformation with practical, evidence-based nutrition advice.

If you or someone you know is living with diabetes, don't rely on myths or social media advice alone. Speak with a Registered Dietitian who can develop a meal plan that fits your health needs, lifestyle, and culture.

💬 Have you ever heard someone say people with diabetes should never eat rice or other carbohydrates again? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

#Diabetes #ClinicalNutrition #RegisteredDietitian #NutritionEducation #HealthyEating #EvidenceBasedNutrition #NigerianHealth #Dietitian #FoodIsMedicine #AyoBashiruItopa