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Understanding Type 2 Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and Functional Medicine Solutions

October 8, 2025by Dr. Apurva Ahirrao

89.8 million

That’s the number of people with Diabetes in India as of today, according to International Diabetes Federation (IDF)data…with the number projected to increase to over 156 million by 2050.

The rise in diabetes cases, particularly in low and middle -income countries like India is a global concern.

Most diabetics find themselves on the road to gradual weight gain, slowly rising blood sugar levels and higher dosage of medication. Going to the doctor usually means bad news because the number of prescribed medicines keeps increasing with every visit. It often looks as if there is no way out. Despite controlling blood sugar levels with diet and medication, most of them end up suffering from a variety of dreaded complications like neuropathy, loss of vision, kidney failure, heart attack and gangrene.

Contrary to what you hear there is a cure for diabetes. But to solve any problem we must first understand the cause and then remove it. The cause of diabetes is not lack of medication. The cause of diabetes is not sugar and carbohydrates. The cause of diabetes is insulin resistance and/or lack of insulin.

Hence the usual advice that most diabetics follow is cutting down carbohydrates and sugar and taking more medication does not work. We need to address the cause first and foremost. If we can put our finger on the cause of insulin resistance and lack of insulin, diabetes can be prevented and reversed. This article aims to assist you with identifying the cause of the disease and the good news is that anyone can do it.

Type 2 diabetes 

If the amount of fat increases within the cells, it stands to reason that the cells do not require any more sugar, because it already has plenty of energy stored. Therefore, the fat within the muscle cells prevents more sugar from entering by making the cells insulin resistant.

If we continue to eat sugar or carbohydrates this excess sugar now remains in the bloodstream causing a rise in the blood sugar levels. In order to remove this excess glucose our thirst increases so that the water we drink can dilute the glucose. This is then filtered by the kidneys and thrown out.

In order to use the accumulated fat in the muscle cells, the cells must spend some energy to reconvert the fat back to the sugar so that it can be used. The only form of energy that a cell can use is sugar or to be precise glucose.

So when the first fat in the muscle cell rises, it becomes resistant to insulin, thereby causing the blood sugar level to rise. This is called type 2 Diabetes.

Whenever we eat simple refined sugars or carbohydrates such as sugar, white floor, jaggery or even fruit juices the glucose easily goes straight into the bloodstream causing the blood sugar level to rise this in turn causes a spike in the insulin level.

The insulin now causes the sugar to enter the cells and the blood sugar levels fall suddenly.  When the blood sugar is low, we feel hungry. Therefore, sugar is an appetizer and increases hunger. Sugar or refined carbohydrates are considered high glycaemic index foods because the spike in the bloodstream whenever we eat complex carbohydrates such as fruits, dry fruits like dates, whole wheat, whole rise or vegetable, it takes time to digest, the fibre holds the sugar so the sugar enter the blood streams slowly. Foods like these are called low glycaemic index foods. Interestingly fruit and dry fruit such as dates and raisins, despite being sweet, don’t cause such spikes in the blood sugar levels because they are filled with fibres.

To sum up, type 2 diabetes is mainly the result of insulin resistance. And the cause of this is largely the fat inside the muscle cell.

The Real Causes of Diabetes

Most people find out they have diabetes inadvertently, when they go to a doctor because they do not feel well, when a wound does not heal or when there is sudden loss of weight. Others find out just by a routine blood sugar check. When it is diagnosed, almost everyone goes back to the doctor who suggests some tests and prescribes medications or insulin, depending on the need. The diet prescribed invariably has less sugar and carbs. At best these measures control diabetes in the short run but with time, most people see their blood sugar levels and number of medications spiral upwards. Everyone knows that nobody gets better with this approach, but they all feel compelled to follow it like it’s written in gold. There is comfort in doing what others do.

The reason that medicines and a low-carb diet do nothing to reverse diabetes is because it does not address its root cause. The cause of diabetes is not sugar or carbohydrates, so removing them from the diet will not solve the problem. Nor is it the lack of medicines. These measures can at best only control the sugar levels. Conventional treatment only works to control the disease.

Reversing diabetes means getting back to normal blood sugar levels without any medications. This is possible if we remove the cause of diabetes and then wait for our body to heal. In order to do so, we have to first understand the cause. Reversing diabetes needs a shift in our thinking.

So What Causes Diabetes?

We stay under the misunderstanding that sugar and starchy carbohydrates cause diabetes, simply because we correlate elevated blood sugar levels with sugar in our food. Your blood sugar goes up after you eat because it is supposed to. Sugar is not the cause of diabetes.

This is not to say that it is good for you, but it is not the cause.

So here I will list some of the most important causes of diabetes in the order of how seriously they affect our body.

Hormones

Diabetes is a hormonal disorder. Hormone secretions in our body are orchestrated by the pituitary gland. When one hormone is out of balance, others also go out of sync. This is why diabetes, hypothyroid, polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD or PCOS) and obesity are often seen together. Steroids (also hormones) given for therapeutic reasons can induce diabetes. When the hormones are in imbalance, everything can be affected.

Lack of Exercise

Many a diabetic has seen blood sugars drop as a result of exercise. A regular morning walk definitely brings down blood sugar levels. A sedentary lifestyle along with a faulty diet is one of the key causes of diabetes. One of the banes of modern existence is that we have created a highly mechanized, artificial environment that has reduced physical exercise to a minimum.

Obesity

Obesity is recognized as a major risk factor that predisposes one to diabetes. The irony is that the conventional medical treatment for diabetes often leads to weight gain. Patients, once diagnosed and treated with medicines, often enter the vicious circle of weight gain, which worsens the condition.

Mindset

The most insidious thing is the belief system we adopt without questioning, such as the belief that diabetes is genetic. This fatalistic mindset that ‘everyone in my family has diabetes, so I too will get it’, makes us resigned to our fate and not take responsibility for our health. What we don’t stop to think is that genetics only makes you less prone to certain diseases. But if you alter your diet and lifestyle, you can keep diseases at bay, including diabetes.

Effects of Fat

Our muscles need glucose to power them, and the blood constantly supplies them with this important fuel. Insulin receptors are like little locked gateways on the muscle cell which can be opened by insulin-the key. When insulin engages with the insulin receptor, it opens the gates to allow glucose in, from the blood into the muscle cell where it can be used.

When fat accumulates inside the muscle cells, it jams up the Insulin receptors, which results in insulin resistance. This means that even though there is enough insulin, perhaps even more than normal, it’s not able to do its job. Now the glucose remains in the bloodstream, raising the blood sugar levels while the muscle cells that need it cannot use it. As a result we feel lethargic and drained of all energy. The cells also contain mitochondria, which are like little furnaces that burn fat. But when fat accumulates, the mitochondria work less. Thus regular consumption of fat actually causes insulin resistance. But taking fat out of the diet works to reduce this insulin resistance and allows glucose to enter the cells again. This translates in human terms to a feeling of more energy, less lethargy and drowsiness, symptoms which are very common in people with diabetes. The point to remember is that this can happen to anyone who consumes fat in their diet, including thin people.

Most of us consume fat without realizing it. All our meals are cooked in ghee, butter or oil. All of this is fat. Animal products too are full of fat, be it milk, eggs, meat, fish, chicken or anything else. Fat swims on top when you boil these items.

HealZen Way of treating Diabetes 

Healzen’s PRO Therapeutic Protocol (Combination of Functional medicines) and functional foods play a crucial role in supporting metabolic balance.

The First rule in DM 2 management is creating an alkaline atmosphere in the body. Using HealZen’s chlorophyll formulations initiates an alkaline shift in the body, which forms the foundation of metabolic health.

We maintain an alkaline environment that helps in reducing systemic inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, and supporting overall metabolic balance. Promoting hydration and detoxification is essential to flush out toxins. Staying physically active with at least 30–45 minutes of moderate exercise, including walking, strength training, or yoga enhances insulin sensitivity. Managing stress and maintaining quality sleep are equally important, as stress impacts cortisol levels, which in turn affect blood sugar regulation.

Engaging in mindfulness practices, meditation, or deep breathing helps to reduce stress.

Staying committed to Healzen’s protocol is crucial for achieving results. This includes taking prescribed functional medicines to support pancreatic function and following scheduled screenings and doctor consultations to track progress.

We do not rely solely on medication without lifestyle changes because true diabetes reversal requires a comprehensive approach involving nutrition, physical activity, and stress management. Avoid discontinuing prescribed treatment without medical supervision.

Lastly, refrain from ignoring regular check-ups and screenings, as consistent monitoring is essential to track progress and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Our PRO-therapeutic protocols, rooted in rigorous medical research, effectively address the root causes of Diabetes Mellitus. These Natural Bioactive Compounds  are based on extensive medical research and clinical studies published in American and European journals.

The Formulations used in PRO Therapeutic Protocol boosts the Cellular Energy which Supports mitochondrial function for improved energy production and glucose metabolism it also aids in the removal of heavy metals and free radicals, which can contribute to insulin resistance. The advanced glucose control tablet designed to improve insulin sensitivity, regulate HbA1c levels, and prevent glucose spikes. The Liver support formula Improves the liver’s ability to process glucose and toxins. The Omega 369 formula helps to Improve Insulin Receptor Function: Enhances cell membrane fluidity, leading to better insulin signalling.

Nutritional Assessment through HealZen’s Functional Nutrition Therapy (FNT)

HealZen’s Functional Nutrition Therapy (FNT) focuses on nutrition, metabolic restoration, and chronic disease reversal. Unlike conventional diet plans that merely control blood sugar, FNT works at a cellular level to restore physiological balance, improve insulin sensitivity, and prevent diabetic complications.

  1. Each individual’s metabolic state is different, and nutrition must be tailored accordingly. FNT incorporates: Low-glycaemic, high-fiber foods to prevent sugar spikes, Macronutrient Balance, Functional Foods & Nutraceuticals: Bioactive compounds that improve insulin response and reduce inflammation.
  2. Gut Health Optimization-Probiotic & Prebiotic Therapy: Supports digestion, nutrient absorption, and gut integrity. Detoxification Support: Reduces systemic inflammation and enhances metabolic function.
  3. HealZen’s FNT integrates natural elements into dietary strategies: Hydration Therapy: Alkalizing liquids such as Liq. Chlorobia to maintain pH balance and oxygenation. Light & Circadian Nutrition: Meal timing aligned with biological rhythms for optimal metabolic function. Grounding & Earth-Based Nutrition: Encouraging natural, chemical-free, whole-food consumption.
  4. Anti-Inflammatory & Insulin-Sensitizing Foods-Omega-3-Rich Foods: Softgel Linum 369 for reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity.
  5. Behavioral & Lifestyle Modifications Mindful Eating: Avoiding emotional or stress-induced eating.Meal Timing & Fasting Strategies: Aligning food intake with insulin sensitivity cycles.Live Movement & Relaxation Sessions: Incorporating structured exercise, Surya namaskar, and meditation for stress management.

Lifestyle and Behavioural Intervention

HealZen’s Lifestyle and Behavioural Intervention helps to reverse diabetes, improve insulin sensitivity, and restore metabolic health.

This intervention focuses on habit modification, stress management, physical movement, sleep optimization, and emotional well-being, ensuring a sustainable, long-term solution rather than short-term symptom management

Monitoring and Follow -Ups

Regular biomarker monitoring is crucial for assessing diabetes progression, treatment efficacy, and overall metabolic health. 

HealZen’s diabetes management program follows a structured biomarker tracking and follow-up system to ensure sustained glucose control, insulin sensitivity, and complication prevention.

Why It’s Important to Reverse Diabetes: The Dreaded Complications

With the kind of busy life styles, we lead today, it’s easy to simply pop a pill to control blood sugar levels and continue as if nothing’s wrong. Changing lifestyles and changing consciousness requires effort, something that many of us have little time for. ‘Why then is it important to reverse diabetes?’ you may ask. The answer is simple. Over the years, the dosage of medications increases, and so do the dreaded complications that come with the disease. Ever-growing lifelong prescriptions, doctors’ bills and regular hospitalizations add to the costs, but the real costs are the days when you feel unwell and have low energy levels and the disabilities. All the money earned over years of hard work suddenly becomes meaningless when one suffers from diabetic complications.

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