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How To Reverse Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes
Busting the Diabetes Myth provides an effective and evidence-based approach to guide people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes towards a healthier future.
Focusing on the lifestyle changes that help reverse the diabetes disease process, the book will be an invaluable source of hope and inspiration for the millions of people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes around the world.
Drawing upon Dr Cavan's extensive research into diabetes management and his professional experience, Busting the Diabetes Myth reveals the latest scientific evidence behind his innovative approach in helping people reverse their diabetes, providing specific advice for people with prediabetes as well as those with type 2 diabetes.
Advocating a diet based on healthy fresh foods that avoids sugars, refined carbohydrates and other processed foods, and with simple suggestions for how to incorporate physical activity into the daily routine, this accessible guide shows us sustainable and achievable ways of adjusting our lifestyles to reverse prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, authenticated with first-hand testimonies from people who in following Dr Cavan's evidence-based approach have already done just that.
Focusing on the lifestyle changes that help reverse the diabetes disease process, the book will be an invaluable source of hope and inspiration for the millions of people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes around the world.
Drawing upon Dr Cavan's extensive research into diabetes management and his professional experience, Busting the Diabetes Myth reveals the latest scientific evidence behind his innovative approach in helping people reverse their diabetes, providing specific advice for people with prediabetes as well as those with type 2 diabetes.
Advocating a diet based on healthy fresh foods that avoids sugars, refined carbohydrates and other processed foods, and with simple suggestions for how to incorporate physical activity into the daily routine, this accessible guide shows us sustainable and achievable ways of adjusting our lifestyles to reverse prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, authenticated with first-hand testimonies from people who in following Dr Cavan's evidence-based approach have already done just that.
448 pages, Paperback
Published April 16, 2024
25 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
April 8, 2025
Very interesting and relatively easy to follow. I’m certainly sure I understood the main points even if some of the medical science was quite complex. I am not pre- diabetic but many of my friends are and I want to avoid joining them if possible. This is an optimistic book and any of us at any time can make changes to our lifestyle to secure our health. The recipes at the end are useful too.
November 6, 2023
Learn about diabetes-reversing strategies with a comprehensive read – ‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’.
Unfortunately, type 2 diabetes is truly a 21st-century plague. It is affecting the lives of 422 million people. Besides being widely spread and well-known, a plethora of myths surrounds the disease.
What are the real causes of diabetes? Is there any way to reverse it besides medications? Is prediabetes a straight-forward sentence to diabetes?
To answer all these questions and dispel all the myths, renowned physician Dr. David Cavan has written a book ‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’ – an in-depth read that aims to enable anyone to reverse their diabetes using simple lifestyle changes.
Author’s background
Dr. David Cavan is a knowledgeable diabetes physician specialising in all aspects of diabetes management, with a specific focus on helping individuals manage and even reverse type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes.
He is a strong advocate for self-management and has actively contributed to the creation of educational programs for individuals living with diabetes. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Cavan engages in public speaking engagements and writes books on the topic. One of his notable works is ‘Reverse Your Diabetes Diet’.
What is the book about?
‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’ offers a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to guide individuals with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes towards a healthier future. Drawing upon Dr. Cavan’s extensive research and professional experience, this book presents the latest scientific evidence supporting his innovative methods for reversing diabetes.
The book starts with the chapter ‘You CAN do it’ which introduces readers to the topic of reversibility of diabetes. It explains in straightforward terms how modern lifestyles contribute to the development of these conditions.
The further chapters deal with myths that surround the disease. In simple words, backed with scientific research and parers, Dr. Cavan debunks myths like diabetes being solely caused by laziness and overeating, the irreversibility of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, the non-existence of a diabetic diet and others.
The book provides direct guidance on what to do to reverse the disease. Readers can stumble upon them in the text of a chapter, however, the main action points are often listed at the end of a chapter.
The book also includes personal stories of Dr. Cavan’s patients. They are usually placed at the very end of chapters. Not only do these stories make the reading more enjoyable, but encourage readers to try the diabetes-reversing strategies themselves.
Key takeaways from ‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’
1. Diabetes is not solely your fault
One of the most important myths that are debunked in the book is “You have diabetes because you are lazy and eat too much.”
Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes are prevalent worldwide and are not solely the result of individual laziness or overeating. The significant increase in the number of people affected by these conditions cannot be attributed to infections or genetic diseases. Instead, the author points to external factors in people’s lives that have impacted their metabolism. Understanding the rise of diabetes requires considering broader environmental and lifestyle influences rather than blaming individuals.
2. Prediabetes can be reversed before it turns into diabetes
The book invalidates the myth that prediabetes inevitably leads to type 2 diabetes and requires escalating medication.
Both prediabetes and type 2 diabetes can be reversed through lifestyle changes. Studies have shown that adopting a low-fat, high-fibre diet, increasing physical activity, and achieving weight loss significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The Diabetes Prevention Program and the Finnish Diabetes Prevention Study demonstrated that lifestyle interventions were more effective than medication in preventing diabetes. Furthermore, individuals with prediabetes have successfully reversed their condition through lifestyle modifications, indicating that prediabetes is not an irreversible process. Reversing prediabetes is achievable, and early identification provides an opportunity to proactively improve health and minimise the risk of developing diabetes.
3. Skipping snacks leads to a lower sugar intake
Cutting down on added sugar is crucial for managing and reversing diabetes and this can be achieved by eradicating the snacking habit.
Snacking, in general, is often driven by marketing and the food industry’s influence, encouraging excessive consumption of processed and sugary snacks. To reduce sugar intake, focus on eating enough during main meals and avoid snacking between meals. By doing so, you can reduce blood glucose and insulin levels, leading to decreased hunger and a lower desire to snack.
It’s important to have healthier snack options available when you feel peckish, such as cheese, fruits, vegetables, nuts, boiled eggs, or dark chocolate. However, it’s best to avoid sweet snacks that may trigger cravings and lead to overeating. Understanding the carbohydrate content of foods can help make informed choices and manage sugar intake effectively.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• Scientifically backed.
• Shares the latest research on diabetes and dispels old beliefs.
• Gives practical recommendations.
• Has a relatable and engaging writing style.
• Motivates and encourages to try out diabetes-reversing strategies via real-life examples.
Weaknesses:
• Limited focus on specific dietary restrictions. While the book provides guidance on managing type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes, it may not address the specific dietary restrictions of individuals with other conditions, such as IBS. Some readers with dietary restrictions may find the recipes and food recommendations less applicable to their unique needs.
Best quotes from ‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’
“…if you have type 2 diabetes, I recommend you obtain some means of assessing your glucose control – just not urine testing – as this will be enormously helpful in guiding your food choices, as you make changes to your diet. It is also hugely rewarding and motivating to see levels come down as a result of your efforts. However, it is not absolutely essential, and it is still possible to reverse your diabetes or prediabetes without monitoring your glucose levels.“
“Snacks are an invention of the food industry, and they pour hundreds of millions of pounds into developing and advertising them to us. Whereas in the past, parents would tell children not to snack as it will ‘spoil your appetite’, now the all-pervasive messaging that comes through marketing encourages everyone to get through tonnes and tonnes of snacks, many of which are ultra-processed and high in sugar. So, I encourage you to focus on eating enough at your main meals to fill you up, and then aim to avoid any food between meals.“
“When it comes to main meals, my simple advice is to think of ‘meat and two veg’ type meals rather than meals based on potatoes, pasta or rice. Perhaps, more accurately, ‘protein and as many veg as you can manage’ would be a better description – one that includes meals for non-meat eaters and encourages you to pile your plate up with as many veg as you like.“
Final takeaway
‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’ by Dr. David Cavan offers a valuable resource for individuals newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. With its scientifically backed approach and practical recommendations, the book empowers readers to take control of their health and challenges common misconceptions surrounding diabetes.
With its focus on debunking myths, providing practical guidance, and sharing real-life examples, ‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’ is best suited for individuals seeking a comprehensive introduction to type 2 diabetes and prediabetes management. It serves as a valuable resource for those who want to understand the underlying causes of diabetes, make informed choices about their diet and lifestyle, and embrace self-management as a key aspect of their health journey.
Unfortunately, type 2 diabetes is truly a 21st-century plague. It is affecting the lives of 422 million people. Besides being widely spread and well-known, a plethora of myths surrounds the disease.
What are the real causes of diabetes? Is there any way to reverse it besides medications? Is prediabetes a straight-forward sentence to diabetes?
To answer all these questions and dispel all the myths, renowned physician Dr. David Cavan has written a book ‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’ – an in-depth read that aims to enable anyone to reverse their diabetes using simple lifestyle changes.
Author’s background
Dr. David Cavan is a knowledgeable diabetes physician specialising in all aspects of diabetes management, with a specific focus on helping individuals manage and even reverse type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes.
He is a strong advocate for self-management and has actively contributed to the creation of educational programs for individuals living with diabetes. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Cavan engages in public speaking engagements and writes books on the topic. One of his notable works is ‘Reverse Your Diabetes Diet’.
What is the book about?
‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’ offers a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to guide individuals with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes towards a healthier future. Drawing upon Dr. Cavan’s extensive research and professional experience, this book presents the latest scientific evidence supporting his innovative methods for reversing diabetes.
The book starts with the chapter ‘You CAN do it’ which introduces readers to the topic of reversibility of diabetes. It explains in straightforward terms how modern lifestyles contribute to the development of these conditions.
The further chapters deal with myths that surround the disease. In simple words, backed with scientific research and parers, Dr. Cavan debunks myths like diabetes being solely caused by laziness and overeating, the irreversibility of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, the non-existence of a diabetic diet and others.
The book provides direct guidance on what to do to reverse the disease. Readers can stumble upon them in the text of a chapter, however, the main action points are often listed at the end of a chapter.
The book also includes personal stories of Dr. Cavan’s patients. They are usually placed at the very end of chapters. Not only do these stories make the reading more enjoyable, but encourage readers to try the diabetes-reversing strategies themselves.
Key takeaways from ‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’
1. Diabetes is not solely your fault
One of the most important myths that are debunked in the book is “You have diabetes because you are lazy and eat too much.”
Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes are prevalent worldwide and are not solely the result of individual laziness or overeating. The significant increase in the number of people affected by these conditions cannot be attributed to infections or genetic diseases. Instead, the author points to external factors in people’s lives that have impacted their metabolism. Understanding the rise of diabetes requires considering broader environmental and lifestyle influences rather than blaming individuals.
2. Prediabetes can be reversed before it turns into diabetes
The book invalidates the myth that prediabetes inevitably leads to type 2 diabetes and requires escalating medication.
Both prediabetes and type 2 diabetes can be reversed through lifestyle changes. Studies have shown that adopting a low-fat, high-fibre diet, increasing physical activity, and achieving weight loss significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The Diabetes Prevention Program and the Finnish Diabetes Prevention Study demonstrated that lifestyle interventions were more effective than medication in preventing diabetes. Furthermore, individuals with prediabetes have successfully reversed their condition through lifestyle modifications, indicating that prediabetes is not an irreversible process. Reversing prediabetes is achievable, and early identification provides an opportunity to proactively improve health and minimise the risk of developing diabetes.
3. Skipping snacks leads to a lower sugar intake
Cutting down on added sugar is crucial for managing and reversing diabetes and this can be achieved by eradicating the snacking habit.
Snacking, in general, is often driven by marketing and the food industry’s influence, encouraging excessive consumption of processed and sugary snacks. To reduce sugar intake, focus on eating enough during main meals and avoid snacking between meals. By doing so, you can reduce blood glucose and insulin levels, leading to decreased hunger and a lower desire to snack.
It’s important to have healthier snack options available when you feel peckish, such as cheese, fruits, vegetables, nuts, boiled eggs, or dark chocolate. However, it’s best to avoid sweet snacks that may trigger cravings and lead to overeating. Understanding the carbohydrate content of foods can help make informed choices and manage sugar intake effectively.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• Scientifically backed.
• Shares the latest research on diabetes and dispels old beliefs.
• Gives practical recommendations.
• Has a relatable and engaging writing style.
• Motivates and encourages to try out diabetes-reversing strategies via real-life examples.
Weaknesses:
• Limited focus on specific dietary restrictions. While the book provides guidance on managing type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes, it may not address the specific dietary restrictions of individuals with other conditions, such as IBS. Some readers with dietary restrictions may find the recipes and food recommendations less applicable to their unique needs.
Best quotes from ‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’
“…if you have type 2 diabetes, I recommend you obtain some means of assessing your glucose control – just not urine testing – as this will be enormously helpful in guiding your food choices, as you make changes to your diet. It is also hugely rewarding and motivating to see levels come down as a result of your efforts. However, it is not absolutely essential, and it is still possible to reverse your diabetes or prediabetes without monitoring your glucose levels.“
“Snacks are an invention of the food industry, and they pour hundreds of millions of pounds into developing and advertising them to us. Whereas in the past, parents would tell children not to snack as it will ‘spoil your appetite’, now the all-pervasive messaging that comes through marketing encourages everyone to get through tonnes and tonnes of snacks, many of which are ultra-processed and high in sugar. So, I encourage you to focus on eating enough at your main meals to fill you up, and then aim to avoid any food between meals.“
“When it comes to main meals, my simple advice is to think of ‘meat and two veg’ type meals rather than meals based on potatoes, pasta or rice. Perhaps, more accurately, ‘protein and as many veg as you can manage’ would be a better description – one that includes meals for non-meat eaters and encourages you to pile your plate up with as many veg as you like.“
Final takeaway
‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’ by Dr. David Cavan offers a valuable resource for individuals newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. With its scientifically backed approach and practical recommendations, the book empowers readers to take control of their health and challenges common misconceptions surrounding diabetes.
With its focus on debunking myths, providing practical guidance, and sharing real-life examples, ‘Busting the Diabetes Myth’ is best suited for individuals seeking a comprehensive introduction to type 2 diabetes and prediabetes management. It serves as a valuable resource for those who want to understand the underlying causes of diabetes, make informed choices about their diet and lifestyle, and embrace self-management as a key aspect of their health journey.
June 6, 2024
Having recently been diagnosed as prediabetic, I have read a lot of books on diet and diabetes and this was probably the most pragmatic and useful. I liked the fact he is a British GP, so it felt relevant to me. There is so much conflicting advice on the "best" diet for putting diabetes in remission, but Dr Cavan was not as dogmatic as many other books - he looks at lots of different approaches and emphasises that the best diet is one that is sustainable for you.
He does generally advocate a lower carb approach, because it just works. Be aware that NHS guidelines + Diabetes UK are quite ambivalent about low carb diets, emphasising low GI - but it is clear that a diabetic body just can't handle carbs well so why fuel the fire? How low carb you need to go is very individual - you may find a few tweaks are all you need to make and Dr Cavan talks you through medication changes you may need to discuss with your doctor if you are on blood glucose lowering meds.
Diabetes does not have a short-term fix - at best you can put it in remission, so the focus is on making lifestyle habit changes in a sustainable way, whether that is reducing carbs, reducing snacking, skipping breakfast, strength training etc. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, which if you like a set meal plan you may not like - but I think it is better to make long term habit changes that suit you and your preferences.
For me reducing my carbs and upping protein and veg has got me off the blood sugar roller-coaster so I am no longer starving at 4pm or needing sugar to pick me up, and eating a late breakfast is easy for me. I don't particularly count calories or carbs and listen to my body and eat a bit more if I am hungry. Sleep, stress management & exercise (walking daily, occasional runs & for the first time, weights) are also part of the picture. I am losing weight and inches for the first time in years and it feels sustainable. Thank you, Dr Cavan - I was so confused after reading so much conflicting advice and despondent that I found the 800 calorie approach too restrictive. It is a relief to find an approach that feels doable long-term and is working.
He does generally advocate a lower carb approach, because it just works. Be aware that NHS guidelines + Diabetes UK are quite ambivalent about low carb diets, emphasising low GI - but it is clear that a diabetic body just can't handle carbs well so why fuel the fire? How low carb you need to go is very individual - you may find a few tweaks are all you need to make and Dr Cavan talks you through medication changes you may need to discuss with your doctor if you are on blood glucose lowering meds.
Diabetes does not have a short-term fix - at best you can put it in remission, so the focus is on making lifestyle habit changes in a sustainable way, whether that is reducing carbs, reducing snacking, skipping breakfast, strength training etc. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, which if you like a set meal plan you may not like - but I think it is better to make long term habit changes that suit you and your preferences.
For me reducing my carbs and upping protein and veg has got me off the blood sugar roller-coaster so I am no longer starving at 4pm or needing sugar to pick me up, and eating a late breakfast is easy for me. I don't particularly count calories or carbs and listen to my body and eat a bit more if I am hungry. Sleep, stress management & exercise (walking daily, occasional runs & for the first time, weights) are also part of the picture. I am losing weight and inches for the first time in years and it feels sustainable. Thank you, Dr Cavan - I was so confused after reading so much conflicting advice and despondent that I found the 800 calorie approach too restrictive. It is a relief to find an approach that feels doable long-term and is working.
October 19, 2025
For starters let me state this clearly now, I am not prediabetic or even diabetic. I read this book because I used to work in the retail sector and more often than not I’d get individuals coming into the store having being told that they were diabetic and wanting to start immediately with little to no advice. I was lucky that I knew people who could help with this shocking n often life altering diagnosis.
This book is a guide for people I change their lifestyles one step at a at a time. It doesn’t admit or claim that this will work for everyone but it does offer some useful advice and support. It is well written and broken down into insightful and useful information and support. Best to be read in small chunks as there’s a lot of information to take in.
This book is a guide for people I change their lifestyles one step at a at a time. It doesn’t admit or claim that this will work for everyone but it does offer some useful advice and support. It is well written and broken down into insightful and useful information and support. Best to be read in small chunks as there’s a lot of information to take in.
March 23, 2025
Clear and well explained
Really well explained science, better than all the other books I've looked at so far.
As there is a lot of conflicting advice out there, to be clear, this book advocates a low carb or ultra low carb diet to manage and reverse prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. It doesn't have a problem with very low calorie diets along the lines of the Newcastle Diet, other than the fact they are short term. The focus of this book is on long term lifestyle changes. It is very much against the current NHS Eatwell guidelines of having most of your calories from carbs, and carbs with every meal.
Really well explained science, better than all the other books I've looked at so far.
As there is a lot of conflicting advice out there, to be clear, this book advocates a low carb or ultra low carb diet to manage and reverse prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. It doesn't have a problem with very low calorie diets along the lines of the Newcastle Diet, other than the fact they are short term. The focus of this book is on long term lifestyle changes. It is very much against the current NHS Eatwell guidelines of having most of your calories from carbs, and carbs with every meal.
September 17, 2023
Significantly more informative than anything my GP has ever given to me. I'm on the road to T2 remission thanks to this book!
February 19, 2024
More helpful than the Polyclinic doctors
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews