Breaking Free from Insulin Resistance: Natural Solutions for Lasting Health
Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes have become so common that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or even resigned to the idea that these conditions are just an inevitable part of life. But what if there’s a better way to manage—and even reverse—these issues naturally? I recently had an incredibly insightful conversation on my podcast, Better Than A Pill, with two experts who are passionate about doing just that.
Amanda Yue, our functional medicine practitioner, and Shannon Davis, a seasoned registered dietitian, brought some game-changing perspectives to the table. Both of them emphasized how our modern food environment, loaded with processed foods and high sugar content, has been a significant driver behind the rise in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. It really struck me how the advice we’ve been given for decades—eat every few hours, focus on low-fat diets, and consume plenty of grains—might actually be contributing to the problem rather than solving it.
One of the most powerful ideas we discussed was time-restricted eating. This concept was a major shift for me, especially considering the traditional approach of eating multiple small meals throughout the day. Amanda and Shannon explained how giving your body longer breaks between meals allows your insulin levels to drop, which is crucial for reversing insulin resistance. By shrinking the window of time in which we eat, rather than eating less overall, we can give our bodies a chance to tap into stored fat for energy. It’s not about deprivation—it’s about timing.
Personally, I’ve started incorporating more time-restricted eating into my own routine, and the results have been remarkable. I used to think skipping breakfast was impossible for me, but with the support of the Feel Great system, which Amanda and Shannon introduced on the podcast, I’ve been able to do it without feeling deprived or sluggish. The system includes two key components: a concentrated yerba mate tea and a fiber matrix. The yerba mate tea gives me sustained energy throughout the morning without the jittery feeling that coffee sometimes causes. It’s amazing how much more productive I feel without that mid-morning crash.
The fiber matrix, on the other hand, has been a game-changer for managing those inevitable moments when I do indulge in something sweet. Knowing that it helps slow down the absorption of carbohydrates gives me peace of mind, especially when I’m enjoying a treat. It’s not about being perfect all the time—it’s about having tools that support me in living a healthier life.
Another significant part of our discussion was the formation of the American Diabetes Society. This new initiative is being spearheaded by some of the most respected voices in the field, including Dr. Eric Westman. The goal is to create a trustworthy resource that focuses on reversing insulin resistance through evidence-based, natural approaches, rather than relying solely on medication. It’s so exciting to see this movement taking shape, and I’m honored to be part of it.
Reflecting on the conversation, I realize just how important it is to address the root cause of these health issues rather than just treating the symptoms. Medications can be helpful, but they often act as a band-aid rather than a cure. What Amanda, Shannon, and I are advocating for is a more holistic approach—one that looks at diet, lifestyle, and natural supplements as powerful tools in the fight against insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
If you’re struggling with insulin resistance or have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, I encourage you to explore these natural solutions. Time-restricted eating, coupled with the right supplements, can make a world of difference. And remember, it’s not about making drastic changes overnight. Start with small steps—maybe try eating dinner a little earlier or cutting out snacks between meals. Over time, these small shifts can lead to big results.
This journey is about empowering yourself with knowledge and tools that truly support your health. The insights I gained from this conversation have already started to transform my approach to health and wellness, and I’m excited to continue sharing this journey with you. Let’s take control of our health, one step at a time.