Plan B Forum

Huckabee Pursues Unconventional Ways to Fund a Campaign

By TRIP GABRIELMARCH 15, 2015

Mike Huckabee, who left his job at Fox News to think about a 2016 presidential campaign, in Des Moines in January. Credit Jabin Botsford/The New York Times

In a wood-paneled study lined with books and framed family photos, the prospective presidential candidate looks into the camera. “I’m Mike Huckabee,” he says with all the folksy charm that propelled a career as a preacher, politician and broadcaster.

But this is no campaign ad. It is an Internet infomercial for a dubious diabetes treatment, in which Mr. Huckabee, who is contemplating a run for the Republican nomination in 2016, tells viewers to ignore “Big Pharma” and instead points them to a “weird spice, kitchen-cabinet cure,” consisting of dietary supplements.

“Let me tell you, diabetes can be reversed,” Mr. Huckabee says. “I should know because I did it. Today you can, too.”

The American Diabetes Association and the Canadian Diabetes Association caution against treatments like the one peddled by the company Mr. Huckabee represents. ... "

Mike Huckabee, who left his job at Fox News to think about a 2016 presidential campaign, in Des Moines in January.

Can You Reverse Type 2 Diabetes?

Treatment for type 2 diabetes includes monitoring your blood sugar levels and using medications or insulin when needed. Doctors also recommend losing weight through diet and exercise. If you start eating healthier, get more exercise, and lose weight, you can reduce your symptoms. Research shows that these lifestyle changes, especially physical activity, can even reverse the course of the condition.

Studies that show the reversal of type 2 diabetes include participants who have lived with the condition for only a few years.

Weight loss is the primary factor in patients who have experienced a reversal of type 2 diabetes. Excess fat in the body effects the production of insulin and how it is used. Research has shown that bariatric surgery can reverse type 2 diabetes, but there are less drastic ways that you can lose weight and reduce your symptoms. A commitment to exercise and dietary changes may be all you need.