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Reverse Diabetes: Real Solutions for Success

Updated: Oct 22


Relax in Back to the Garden’s tropical garden setting at the premier clinical fasting retreat in Puerto Rico.
Relax in the tropical setting of Back to the Garden, the only fasting center in Latin America.

Type 2 diabetes has become one of the greatest public health challenges in the world. Although traditional medical approaches often rely on medication, calorie restriction, and carbohydrate control, these methods rarely achieve true reversal of the disease.


At the Back to the Garden Clinic, we have a proven track record of successfully reversing type 2 diabetes and significantly improving type 1 diabetes outcomes.

Our patients have achieved this through our revolutionary Clinical Fasting Program and Comprehensive Health Program — two effective, science-based alternatives that can truly transform lives.


What Is Diabetes and Why Does It Occur?


Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by elevated blood glucose levels.

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Autoimmune — the body does not produce insulin.

  • Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form (90%), where the body produces insulin but the cells become resistant to its action.


The central problem is that glucose cannot enter the cells to be used as energy. Instead, it accumulates in the blood, leading to serious complications in the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.


Causes of Type 2 Diabetes


While genetics can predispose someone to diabetes, it is environmental and lifestyle factors that determine whether the disease develops:

  • Diet high in saturated fats and animal products

  • Sedentary lifestyle

  • Overweight and obesity

  • Consumption of ultra-processed, low-fiber foods


A clear example is the Pima Indians:In Arizona, where the population adopted a Westernized lifestyle — high in fat, low in fiber, and with minimal physical activity — they now have the highest prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the world.


In contrast, the Pima in Mexico, who maintain a traditional diet based on grains, vegetables, and daily activity, show much lower rates of obesity and diabetes.

This demonstrates that lifestyle and diet are decisive factors that can outweigh even strong genetic predispositions. As Dr. Barnard explains, some genes are “dictators,” but most are only “advisors” — and it’s the environment that decides whether they’re activated.


What Causes Insulin Resistance?


Research shows that fat accumulation inside muscle and liver cells interferes with insulin function.This fat comes primarily from animal products and oils.As a result, the cellular “lock” becomes damaged, trapping glucose in the blood.


Strategies to Reverse Diabetes


1. Whole-Food, Plant Nutrition (Low-Fat)


Evidence shows that a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes, with minimal added fats, can restore insulin sensitivity.

  • Unlimited: Vegetables and fruits

  • Moderate: Whole grains, legumes, root vegetables

  • Controlled: Nuts and seeds (only ¼ cup per day)

  • Excluded: Animal products, oils, processed, and refined foods

This eating pattern not only improves blood glucose but also lowers blood pressure, cholesterol, and cardiovascular risk.


In our App (available only in spanish), you’ll find over 450 recipes and meal plans that guide you step-by-step to eat in a way that supports diabetes reversal — a great way to start your journey today.


2. Regular Exercise


Physical activity enhances insulin sensitivity and supports healthy weight management.We recommend 5–7 days per week of HIIT (high-intensity intervals) and resistance training.(You can find HIIT and resistance training videos in our App!)


3. Supervised Fasting Center


In more advanced cases, medically supervised water fasting can accelerate the reversal of type 2 diabetes.


This process:

  • Facilitates the burning of accumulated fat within cells

  • Promotes autophagy (cellular regeneration)

  • Restores taste perception and sensitivity to natural flavors

  • Reduces or eliminates medication dependency


We’ve seen many real-life success stories:Marta, from Texas, reversed her type 2 diabetes in just 7 days of fasting, eliminating all medications.Another inspiring case is Stephen, age 69, diabetic for 36 years and on 7 medications daily. After a 14-day supervised fast and dietary program, he reduced to one medication, normalized his blood pressure, and lost 30 pounds.


You can find dozens more testimonials and interviews linked below.


Breaking the Myth: Is Fruit Bad for Diabetics?


Quite the opposite! Studies show that eating whole fruits actually reduces the risk of diabetes, thanks to their fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Fruit juice, however, can increase risk due to its high glycemic index and lack of fiber.


Keys to Long-Term Success


  • Visualize and write down your goals.

  • Stock your kitchen with the right foods.

  • Prepare your weekly recipes in advance.

  • Anticipate social challenges (parties, work, travel).


Conclusion


Type 2 diabetes doesn’t have to be a life sentence.With a plant-rich diet, regular exercise, and, in some cases, supervised fasting, it is possible not just to manage but to reverse the disease.

While type 1 diabetes cannot be fully reversed, it can be significantly improved, reducing HbA1c levels and medication needs.


Science and clinical practice both confirm it:When we address the root causes rather than just the symptoms, the body has the innate capacity to heal.


Book Your Free Consultation


Schedule your Free Consultation with Dr. Joanna to find out if you’re a good candidate for the Clinical Fasting Program or Comprehensive Health Program — your path to a healthier life awaits.



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