Metamucil (sugar free) does the same. Not many know about it, Even some doctors seemed surprised when told. Works for hubby. T2 controlled for several years. I think the dr put him on Metformin first but that one is not good. Gone up in price, but large amount seems cheaper than this.
Metamucil works extremely well; I’ve been using it for 4yrs, since I was declared a Type 1 diabetic; now Type 2.
I’m concerned about the 2nd part of your post — Metformin being a carcinogen. Do you have anything further on it?