Reversing Diabetes: Is it Possible?

Type 2 diabetes does not have a cure yet. So, you cannot get rid of it permanently. But can you reverse it? The answer is yes. But instead of reversal which could sound like curing diabetes, let’s use the word remission. So, yes, type 2 diabetes can go into remission. However, you will have to maintain normal blood sugar levels for at least three months without using medicines to lower glucose levels. Let’s explore a few aspects related to it.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, affecting millions worldwide. It occurs owing to problems the way the body regulates and uses sugar (called glucose) as energy. Such inability of the body increases blood sugar levels and has excessive sugar circulating in the blood. High blood sugar levels can translate to nervous disorders, immune system problems, and circulatory system concerns as well.

Signs of Diabetes

People on the brink of or susceptible to type 2 diabetes due to family history or lifestyle-related conditions have unusually high blood sugar levels. They can conduct a test to measure their blood sugar levels and determine the onset of type 2 diabetes. However, such people should also look for some signs of type 2 diabetes, including the following.

• Excessive hunger
• Excessive thirst
• Excessive urination
• Fatigue
• Numbness in the feet
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blurring vision

Treating Type 2 Diabetes

Doctors do not prescribe diabetes medications until they diagnose it. Most drugs help normalize blood sugar levels. But some increase the body’s insulin sensitivity. Although medications help keep things in control, type 2 diabetes remission also requires the individual to few lifestyle changes. Let’s look at some of them.

Diabetes Remission: Making Lifestyle Changes!

While some have a history of type 2 diabetes in their family, in many cases, its onset and progression stem from lifestyle-related factors. So, here are some lifestyle changes through which one can walk toward diabetes remission.

• Dietary Changes: Every diabetes patient is unique and so are their dietary needs. Accordingly, you should consult a diabetes diet specialist to get a proper diet plan prepared for your case. The diet will exclude fast food, processed foods, high sugar and carbohydrate foods.
• Physical Activity: Type 2 diabetes also develops due to a sedentary lifestyle. Accordingly, you should exercise for about 30 minutes five days a week, including a combination of strength and light cardio training. However, instead of following a generic routine, consult a diabetologist and get a personalized exercise plan.
• Sleep adequately. Get at least seven to eight hours of sleep every night.
• Quitting Smoking: Give up smoking. Easier said than done – so connect with a doctor to seek help.

It should be noted that diabetes remission is a steady process. So, you wouldn’t get results in a day or two or even in a month. Each body has its unique response mechanism that determines the pace and effectiveness of diabetes remission. Call +91 20 2426 1600 to book an appointment with our doctors.