A new conversation has come into light after Pune-based diabetologist Dr Pramod Tripathi released a video comparing the effectiveness of insulin and diabetes medication for managing high blood sugar levels. Dr Tripathi, widely followed on Instagram as diabetesreversaldoctor and known for his work on diabetes reversal, discussed which treatment path offers better long-term outcomes for different categories of patients. His detailed explanation was shared in a video report quoted from his Instagram post.
However, he noted that insulin may not be the best option for most people living with Type 2 diabetes. As he explained in the video report, Type 2 diabetes is typically linked to insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and inflammation. For such patients, insulin can cause water and fat gain in addition to controlling sugar, resulting in weight gain and increased risk of heart blockages. He cautioned that prolonged insulin dependence without lifestyle change may push patients toward further complications.
He emphasized that tablets remain the frontline treatment for most Type 2 patients, particularly when combined with structured lifestyle changes.
He advised viewers not to take rigid positions for or against insulin or tablets. Instead, he said, individuals should work toward deeper understanding and self-awareness regarding their health choices.
Dr Tripathi is the founder and CEO of Freedom From Diabetes (FFD), a Pune-based organisation established in 2013. He is recognized for his multifaceted approach to diabetes reversal that integrates allopathy, Ayurveda, yoga, NLP, pranic healing and meditation. His four-pillar protocol includes diet, exercise, inner transformation and medical monitoring, aiming to help individuals reduce reliance on long-term medication.
Insulin is essential for some, but not all
According to Dr Tripathi, insulin is indispensable for individuals with Type 1 diabetes, LADA and those with advanced complications, including liver or kidney illness, as well as pregnant women. He described insulin as a lifesaving requirement for these cases because their bodies cannot produce adequate insulin naturally.However, he noted that insulin may not be the best option for most people living with Type 2 diabetes. As he explained in the video report, Type 2 diabetes is typically linked to insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and inflammation. For such patients, insulin can cause water and fat gain in addition to controlling sugar, resulting in weight gain and increased risk of heart blockages. He cautioned that prolonged insulin dependence without lifestyle change may push patients toward further complications.
Why medicines may be a better first choice
Dr Tripathi stated that oral diabetes medications tend to be more predictable in controlling blood glucose and are less likely to trigger hypoglycemia compared to insulin. He highlighted that some medicines, such as SGLT2 inhibitors, can help improve insulin sensitivity and assist in weight reduction, although they may have mild side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort or urinary infection.He emphasized that tablets remain the frontline treatment for most Type 2 patients, particularly when combined with structured lifestyle changes.
The bigger picture is lifestyle, not prescriptions
Dr Tripathi stressed that the root of effective diabetes management lies in long-term behavioural transformation rather than relying solely on medication or insulin. He urged people to focus on nutrition, regular exercise, quality sleep and emotional regulation, explaining that sustainable changes in daily habits can significantly impact insulin resistance and overall metabolic health.He advised viewers not to take rigid positions for or against insulin or tablets. Instead, he said, individuals should work toward deeper understanding and self-awareness regarding their health choices.
Dr Tripathi is the founder and CEO of Freedom From Diabetes (FFD), a Pune-based organisation established in 2013. He is recognized for his multifaceted approach to diabetes reversal that integrates allopathy, Ayurveda, yoga, NLP, pranic healing and meditation. His four-pillar protocol includes diet, exercise, inner transformation and medical monitoring, aiming to help individuals reduce reliance on long-term medication.
