Currently, there are three “evidence-based” approaches for reversing type 2 diabetes (type 1 is not known to be reversible). These approaches are: 1. bariatric surgery, 2. a very low-calorie diet with most meals taken as patented, liquid formula shakes, and 3. a very low-carbohydrate diet.

When I say “evidence-based,” I mean an approach that is supported by multiple controlled clinical trials, i.e., the only kind of evidence that can reliably establish a cause-and-effect relationship and ensure that the benefits outweigh the harms. This is not my standard but that of every internationally recognized methodology for evaluating scientific studies. (These include AHRQ, GRADE, Cochrane, and one by the Institute of Medicine.)2 Nearly all of our public health institutions subscribe to one of these methodologies, at least in a pro forma way.