Diabetes 2 Myths, Misconceptions, and Marketing Scams: What Really Works

“You are not powerless against diabetes 2—remission is possible for many, without extremes.”

Welcome to The Diabetes Podcast blog. Today, we’re talking about something big: the myths that keep people stuck, and the scams that take their money and hope. If you live with diabetes 2 (type 2 diabetes), you’ve seen it all—“it always gets worse” or “this pill will cure you in days.” Neither is true.

Here’s the truth: you have more power than you think. Remission is possible for many people. And even if full remission isn’t your outcome, you can feel better, use less medication, and protect your health—without extreme diets or gimmicks.

What we cover:

• The most common myths about diabetes 2

• What the science really says about remission

• How the wellness and supplement industry targets people with diabetes

• How to spot scams

• Simple steps you can start today

Myth 1: “I can’t change this disease.”

This belief shuts the door before you begin. It’s false.

• For type 1: Care has come a long way. Automated insulin delivery (insulin pumps connected to CGMs) helps many people live safer, easier lives. A resource to know: Blue Circle Health (bluecirclehealth.org), available in certain states.

• For diabetes 2: Large studies (like DIRECT, Look AHEAD, bariatric trials, and reviews) show a clear theme—weight loss, especially around the midsection (central adiposity), improves blood sugar and increases chances of remission. Early action (within 5–6 years of diagnosis) gives the best odds, but improvements are possible at any time.

Key point: Even if remission isn’t guaranteed, you can still get better than you are today—less medication, more energy, better sleep, and fewer complications.

Myth 2: “Remission takes extreme changes.”

You do not need to starve, cut all carbs, or do a harsh cleanse.

• Many studies show a 5–10% weight loss can improve glucose control.

• The best plans use nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress tools you can stick with.

• Working with a Registered Dietitian (ideally a CDCES) can help you avoid shame-based plans and find what fits your life.

Myth 3: “I have to change everything overnight.”

All-or-nothing thinking leads to quitting.

Instead, start small and be consistent:

• Walk 2–10 minutes after dinner.

• Swap one sugary drink this week for water or unsweet tea.

• Cook one extra meal at home.

• Try beans, peas, or lentils once this week instead of meat.

Small steps done often beat big changes that don’t last.

Myth 4: “Medication means I failed.”

Medication is a tool—not a grade. Sometimes it’s short-term scaffolding while you build new habits. Sometimes it’s long-term and life-saving.

Important:

• Early use of the right meds can help preserve beta cells.

• As you add healthy habits, your medication needs may go down. Never stop meds cold turkey. Work closely with your doctor to adjust doses safely (especially insulin).

• If your provider won’t partner with your remission goals, consider a new provider.

Myth 5: “Supplements are safer and more natural.”

Be careful. The supplement space is a marketing jungle.

• Supplements are not regulated like prescription drugs.

• The FDA has found “diabetes supplements” spiked with hidden drugs (including metformin) and even banned chemicals.

• Claims are often based on tiny studies or none at all. Stock photos and AI voices can fake “proof.”

What might help (and is low-cost):

• Vitamin D (if you’re low or get little sun)

• Vitamin B12 (if you’re over 50 or vegan)

• Curcumin (possible support)

• Algae-derived omega-3 (possible support)

That’s it. None replace medical care or lifestyle. If your blood sugar is high, a supplement won’t fix it.

Myth 6: “It’s too late for me.”

It’s not too late to improve. Even with long-standing diabetes 2, you can lower insulin resistance, reduce medication needs, and feel better. Remission rates are higher early, but improvement is always worth it. Your choices still matter.

How Scams Target People With Diabetes 2

Watch for these red flags:

• Fear hook: “Doctors don’t want you to know this.”

• Miracle claims: “Reversal in days” or “secret herb from the rainforest.”

• Fake proof: Stock photos, AI voiceovers, celebrity deepfakes.

• Price games: Expensive supplement subscriptions instead of real care.

If it sounds magical, it’s marketing. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you spend a dime.

What Actually Works (Simple, Proven Steps)

Start here this week:

• Walk after meals: 2–10 minutes lowers post-meal glucose.

• Eat more fiber: Add beans, lentils, peas, fruits, and veggies. Fiber helps fullness, blood sugar, and can reduce deep belly fat (visceral fat).

• Swap refined carbs: Choose whole grains and legumes more often.

• Reduce sodium: Use fresh or “no salt added” foods.

• Fill half your plate with veggies: Volume and fiber help.

• Sleep and stress: Better sleep and stress tools improve insulin resistance.

These steps are low-cost, doable, and effective. They don’t look flashy, but they work.

A Note on Timing and Hope

• Diabetes often develops over years. The good news: improvements can show up in months, not decades.

• Don’t expect change in days. Expect steady, real progress with small steps you repeat.

• Your healthcare team should be a partner. Remission is possible for many. Improvement is possible for everyone.

Quick Hits for Type 1 Listeners

• Tech like CGMs and automated insulin delivery (pumps) continues to get better.

• Blue Circle Health (bluecirclehealth.org) may offer support in certain states.

• Even with type 1, movement, fiber, sleep, and stress tools matter.

Smarter Care, Not Louder Claims

• Work with your provider on a plan.

• Adjust medications safely as you improve habits.

• Avoid miracle promises. Choose evidence and consistency.

Episode Takeaways

• You are not powerless against diabetes 2.

• Remission is possible for many—and you don’t need extremes.

• You don’t have to change everything overnight.

• Medication is a tool, not a failure.

• Supplements are not safer or better than evidence-based care.

• Beware of scams that prey on fear and confusion.

• Small, consistent steps—supported by your care team—create real change.

You can do this. Start with one small step today. And if you want a partner in the process, keep listening—we’ll walk with you. Reach out to us at [email protected] if you need additional help.

Disclaimer

The information in this blog post and podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.