Scientists Discover Hidden CAUSE of Stubborn Diabetes
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted June 4, 2025
If, despite diet and exercise, you’re struggling to control type 2 diabetes, this might be the most important thing you read this year.
New research uncovered a microscopic malfunction in muscle cells—and it could be sabotaging your body’s response to insulin.
The most shocking part?
It has nothing to do with your diet, weight, or blood sugar levels…
A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle found that a protein called dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1) works overtime in those with type 2 diabetes (T2D).
This overactive protein targets energy-producing mitochondria. When this happens, it breaks apart the mitochondria into smaller pieces, which disrupts how your muscle cells make energy.
At the same time, other proteins, called deubiquitinating enzymes, interfere with your body’s natural cleanup system (mitophagy) that usually removes damaged mitochondria.
The combination makes it difficult for muscles to properly use insulin.
Conventional wisdom about T2D focuses almost exclusively on blood sugar levels, insulin production, and insulin resistance.
However, this new research shows that mitochondrial dysfunction may be a root cause of insulin resistance rather than just a consequence.
The good news is you can naturally support your mitochondrial health. Here’s how…
- Exercise regularly: Both aerobic and resistance training stimulate the creation of new mitochondria. Even a 20-minute daily walk can make a difference.
- Get enough protein: Protein provides essential amino acids that mitochondria need for repair and function. Aim for 1-1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. For most adults, that’s about 60-80 grams.
- Prioritize quality sleep: Your body repairs damaged mitochondria during deep sleep. Aim for seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep nightly.
- Spend time in the sun: Moderate sun exposure helps your body produce vitamin D, which is crucial for efficient mitochondrial function.
- Increase omega-3 fatty acids: These healthy fats improve mitochondrial membrane fluidity. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are excellent sources.
- Supplements: Several supplements may help support mitochondrial health. Talk to your doctor about whether these might be right for you: CoQ10 (100-200mg daily), L-carnitine (1,000-2,000mg), B-complex vitamins as enzymatic cofactors, magnesium (300-400mg), alpha-lipoic acid (600mg), resveratrol (100-500mg), D-ribose (5g), PQQ (10-20mg), and creatine (3-5g).
This discovery opens up possibilities for new treatments for type 2 diabetes that go beyond the traditional focus on blood sugar control to address the root cause of insulin resistance.
P.S. “Doomed to Diabetes?” Not with THIS $3 supplement solution.
Source:
Wagner S. Dantas, Elizabeth C. Heintz, Elizabeth R. M. Zunica, et al., Deubiquitinating Enzymes Regulate Skeletal Muscle Mitochondrial Quality Control and Insulin Sensitivity in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes, Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia, and Muscle, April 2025, Volume 16, Issue 2, e13763, doi:10.1002/jcsm.13763
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
$5 Pharmacy Find Reverses Aging by 4 Months (Or MORE)
We’re all searching for the elusive fountain of youth. You know—the one anti-aging hack that will give us more happy, healthy years on this Earth. But what if I told you that a simple supplement you can pick up at any pharmacy today might actually slow down your biological aging? A groundbreaking new study suggests...
Why We Crave Crunchy Foods When We're Stressed
Ever notice how you tend to reach for chips, crackers, or pretzels when you’re stressed? That satisfying crunch isn’t just pleasing to your taste buds—that craving is your body’s clever way of calming itself. I’ve been researching this connection for years, and what I’ve learned explains a lot about stress snacking. Even better, it’s revealed...
Mailbag: 7 Natural Allergy Fighters That Won't Leave You Drowsy
“I have a really bad allergy and take an antihistamine every 3rd day because they are bad for your health. I really need to take one a day but I suffer so I will not overdo it. Is there anything out there that is natural that really works? Thank you,” Sneezy and Allergic Hi Sneezy, It’s...
Eat 23 of These Daily to SLASH Heart Risk [DELICIOUS!]
When it comes to heart health, we’re constantly told what we need to cut out. You know the drill—ditch the salt, dump the sugar, and avoid the processed foods. But what if I told you that adding something to your diet could be just as effective for protecting your heart? A comprehensive new scientific analysis...
"Yellow Devil" Fruit CRUSHES Blood Pressure Better Than Meds
I have a confession to make. I hate bananas. Even the smell of them causes my stomach to flip. The funny thing is that I have an uncle and a daughter who are the same—so I wonder if it’s genetic. But even though I consider them the yellow devil of the fruit world, I recommend...
50-Cent Nutrient Puts the Brakes on Aging
Scientists discovered a remarkable “anti-aging” solution hiding in plain sight. It isn’t some exotic compound from a remote rainforest or an expensive laboratory creation. It’s a nutrient you can find at any pharmacy for less than the cost of a cup of coffee. The trouble is, most seniors aren’t getting enough of it, which researchers...
The Hidden Brain Risk Lurking in Your Living Room
If you’re reading this while settled into your favorite chair, you might want to consider standing up… New research uncovered something that might surprise you. Sitting too much can literally shrink your brain. But it gets worse… We all know being sedentary isn’t good for our health. However, researchers at Vanderbilt University uncovered something alarming....
“Biohack” Your Life Like a Billionaire?! Here’s How
You’ve probably seen the headlines about the billionaire who spent millions on “biohacking” to try to make himself younger. He measures hundreds of biomarkers and pops dozens of pills daily. And he’s undergoing experimental treatments that cost more than most folks’ houses. It may have left you wondering if regular people like you and I...
Do THIS Daily to Improve Strength, Flexibility, and Endurance
For any couch potatoes out there… I have some exciting news. If you’ve been avoiding exercise because you hate the gym or don’t have the time, that might be about to change. A groundbreaking study reveals how a few simple moves, done daily in your own home, could dramatically improve your fitness—even if you’ve skipped...
Mailbag: A Post-Prostate Cancer Blueprint for a Better Recovery
“My son just got his prostate removed because of cancer. He is doing well and recovering. My question is there any information you can forward with regards to his lifestyle? Are there things he should not eat, things he should be eating, is social drinking a risk, any vitamins that should be on his list?...