The internet is a great resource to utilise when you have type 2 diabetes, with plenty of reliable, research-based wellness information. However, there are also those online who aren’t much concerned for your wellbeing, and whose sites are simply scams. According to the FDA, dishonest people target people with diabetes because people want a cure from such a serious disease. Diabetes educator and nurse practitioner at the University of Chicago Medical Centre Jennifer Clark explains ‘people are concerned about being on a lot of medications, especially insulin’. However, because it’s established that diabetes scams have been successful in the past, there are many out there and it can be difficult to work out whether the treatment plan you are reading about is a legitimate diabetes cure or a diabetes scam.
Glymetrol should go in the ‘questionable’ column. It is marketed as a vitamin and mineral supplement that controls blood sugar and improves insulin sensitivity, yet Clark says ‘The government is not regulating this product, and I am not aware of any clinical trials supporting its claims’. Clark also warns against drinking hydrogen peroxide, as though it is promoted as a way to help your body manage oxygen and blood sugar better and fight a variety of ills, drinking this substance could damage your digestive tract.
Clark says to be cautious of anything that requires money before you get your information, such as the Diabetes Reversal Report, which is an online book detailing ‘a safe and natural home remedy’ for curing diabetes. Erectile pumps have been targeted at diabetics for bladder control and urinary flow, but a man has recently been sentenced to 3 years in prison for selling these useless products. There is also no evidence to support magnet therapy, which claims to increase blood flow in your legs and heal diabetic neuropathy with magnetic shoe inserts and magnetised drinking water. Clark says that when it comes to alternative, herbal remedies there may be a small basis of effectiveness, but more studies are needed before you consider them.
So how do you know it’s a scam? If it’s too good to be true, chances are it is. There’s no quick cure to diabetes, otherwise your doctor would mention it. It may offer an end to your medications, but again you should consult your doctor about this, and if what you’re taking conflicts with any medications you are currently on. Patient testimonials are often used, but you don’t know how one thing will affect you specifically so proceed with caution. Finally, if they require paying, offer a ‘special deal’, ask for your personal details or don’t cite specific studies, chances are it’s a scam.
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