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
Upgrade from Bananas and Apples to These Powerhouse Fruits
I’m often asked which fruits are the best. So, let’s talk about it. I’ll cut right to the chase: berries win this contest hands down. If you’re limiting your options to apples and bananas, you’re missing out on a universe of superior antioxidant power. Those everyday fruits are like bringing a knife to a gunfight...
The REAL Reason Americans are Getting “Fatter”
You’ve heard it a thousand times: “Americans are getting fatter because we’re lazy.” We sit at desks all day. We binge-watch Netflix instead of hitting the gym. We’ve traded physical labor for sedentary lifestyles. It’s a tidy explanation for why obesity has skyrocketed in developed countries. There’s just one problem—it’s completely wrong… A groundbreaking Duke...
Mailbag: Room Won't Stop Spinning? Do THIS First
“I’m dealing with vertigo issues, lightheadedness, and dizziness. As recently as this last Saturday I had multiple occurrences throughout the day. Is there anything I can do for this? I’m 69 and in good health. I work out 4 to 5 times a week.” —Spinning Hi Spinning, When patients approach me with similar complaints, I...
Hidden Number Secretly Sabotages Male Performance
Guys (and gals that love them), we should talk. You know how we’ve always been told that bedroom troubles are just part of getting older—that we just need to live with them? Well, it turns out that’s not true. Scientists recently wrapped up a six-year study that followed over 100 healthy men, and the findings...
Shocking Study Links Kids' Snacks to Dangerous Early Puberty
Kids are growing up in a world vastly different from the one we knew. Back in our day, if a child wanted something sweet, it was a piece of candy or a homemade cookie. Today’s kids are surrounded by products filled with artificial sweeteners that didn’t even exist when we were raising our own children....
Outdated Vitamin Guidelines Put Your Brain at Risk
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think twice about vitamin B12—until your doctor mentions it during a routine blood test. But new research published in the Annals of Neurology suggests we need to pay closer attention to this crucial nutrient—especially as we age. Turns out, current guidelines for this essential nutrient might be...
The TRUTH About Supplement "Liver Dangers" REVEALED
There’s been a lot of buzz lately about liver damage from supplements—so, let’s talk about it. Reports of supplement-induced liver injuries have some folks wondering, “Could my natural remedy actually be harming me?” But before you toss all your supplements in the trash, let’s separate fact from fear—and talk about how to use supplements safely....
The 10,000 Steps LIE That's Ruining Your Health
I’ll be honest—I’m a little sick of the 10,000-steps theory. You know, the one that insists you need to take at least that many steps daily to stay healthy? You won’t believe where that claim originally came from. The 10,000-steps theory wasn’t handed down from the fitness gods on stone tablets. It originated from a...
“Brain Games” Failed You? Try THIS For Better Memory Instead
You know all those brain-training apps, supplements, and “miracle” memory-boosters that promise to keep your brain sharp as you age? Here’s the truth… There IS evidence they support brain health—and that’s why I’ll be the first to recommend them. But they aren’t the most powerful brain-boosting tool available to you. Another surprising solution has earned...
Mailbag: 5 Powerful Ways to Shield Your Prostate from Cancer
“What are your tips to avoid prostate cancer?” —Keeping Cancer at Bay Hi Keeping, You’re right to be concerned—prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the United States. Approximately one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. And there were an estimated 268,490 new prostate cancer...