Type 2 diabetes cannot be completely cured, but it can be reversed or put into remission for some people. This means blood sugar levels can be controlled well enough to stop diabetes medications and maintain normal levels through lifestyle changes like weight loss and diet. However, the condition can return if healthy habits are not maintained.
How Type 2 Diabetes Can Be Reversed or Put into Remission
- Weight loss is the key factor in reversing type 2 diabetes. Studies show that losing a significant amount of weight, especially soon after diagnosis, can lead to remission where blood glucose stays near normal without medication.
- Low-calorie diets and intermittent fasting have shown promise in achieving remission by reducing fat in the liver and pancreas, which affects insulin resistance.
- Bariatric surgery can also reverse diabetes for people with a high body mass index by physically limiting food intake and leading to weight loss.
- Weight loss medications, such as GLP-1 agonists (e.g., Ozempic), help reduce appetite and may assist in remission.
What Remission Means and Its Limits
- Remission is defined as blood sugar levels below the diabetes range without medication for at least three months.
- It does not mean a cure; type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease and may return if lifestyle changes are not sustained.
- Regular medical monitoring is necessary even in remission to prevent relapse.
Summary
Type 2 diabetes reversal involves moving blood sugar control to non-diabetic levels mainly through weight loss, diet, fasting, surgery, or medication- assisted weight loss. Achieving remission is more likely in the early stages of diabetes. Long-term success depends on continuous healthy habits to prevent return of symptoms.
