Debunked: 11 Health Myths You Believe That Are Quietly Raising Your Blood Sugar

5. Stress Has No Effect on Blood Sugar

Sometimes it’s the things we can’t see—tight shoulders, racing hearts, worries at bedtime—that leave the biggest mark on our well-being. High stress isn’t just a mental load; it triggers a biological response, pushing the body to release cortisol and other hormones. These chemicals instruct your liver to flood your bloodstream with glucose, readying you to “fight or flee”—even if you’re just glued to your inbox. Research has verified that acute or chronic stress can cause blood sugar levels to climb, regardless of whether you have diabetes. Even non-diabetics see measurable changes after particularly rough patches. Over time, unchecked stress can make blood sugar regulation much harder, subtly exhausting your system. Gentle, regular stress-relief rituals—like slow walks, breathing exercises, or laughter with a friend—can do more for your glucose balance than you might guess. Every small act that lightens your burden can help keep those numbers in a more peaceful place.

6. Fruit Is “Bad” for Blood Sugar

Fruit has gotten an undeserved bad reputation when it comes to blood sugar. Fruit indeed contains simple sugars—but nature packed them alongside fiber, water, vitamins, and antioxidants. That fiber slows down how quickly glucose hits your bloodstream, making whole fruit a far cry from candy or soda. Rather than fearing bananas or berries, focus on the portion and what you eat them with. Pairing fruit with a healthy fat or protein—think apple slices with almond butter, or berries on Greek yogurt—smooths glucose response even further. The real trouble comes from fruit juices or dried fruits with added sugar, which can hit fast and hard. So, skip the guilt. Enjoy seasonal fruits, and use them to add both pleasure and nutrition to your routine. They’re not the villain—just another nourishing option in your toolkit.