-
Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners
Is it possible to reverse diabetes
Related Topics
I have heard stories about people completely reversing their diabetes. Is this true? Can it be done? -
Find a professional to answer your question
Find a professional to answer your question Search Now
-
4
Thanks
Diane Munns
Dietitian
I'm an Accredited Practising Dietitian with more than 30 years experience. Particular areas of interest and expertise are in Obesity & Weight Mgt, Type 2 … View Profile
It is certainly not possible to reverse Type 1 Diabetes or cure it at this point in time. JDRF is a fantastic organization that can provide information on where the research is up to at this point of time with regard to searching for a cure.
To get Type 2 Diabetes you have to have the gene for it and then it is usually environment that puts someone in the diabetes blood glucose range. Putting on weight is often the trigger. If you lose weight, eat a Low GI, portion controlled diet and exercise regularly, it is possible to pull your Diabetes back somewhat, and yes in some cases you can appear to have reversed it, achieving an HbA1c in the normal range of 4 - 6%. However, as soon as weight goes on, most likely the blood glucose levels will rise again back into the Diabetic range. Also, Diabetes is a progressive disease, so no matter how well controlled someone is, over time the pancreous becomes less efficient and the next step of management will be required. Diet and Exercise and weight management. Then add one oral hypoglycaemic agent, then another, then insulin. It also depends on how long you have had diabetes as to how the treatment progresses. So to sum it up, in the early stages it can appear that you can reverse your Diabetes. And if you keep your weight under control, it may stay this way for some time.Report this post
You must be a HealthShare member to report this post. to your account or now (it's free).
-
Mr Niruben Rajasagaram
Bariatric (Obesity) Surgeon, General Surgeon, Upper GI Surgeon (Abdominal)
Mr Niruben Rajasagaram is a Consultant Bariatric, Oesophago-gastric & General surgeon who has extensive knowledge in advanced laparoendoscopic surgery. He studied medicine at the Royal … View Profile
Short answer it it can happen in obese type 2 diabetics who undergo metabolic surgery.
Long answer :
Each individual has to be assessed by a specialist bariatric surgeon. This will involve a frank discussion about the benefits / risks, aims, outcomes, etc
For the first time in the history of diabetes a recommendation has been put forward for surgery to be considered an option in obese type 2 diabetics. This is an excerpt below
Clinical guidelines published this week1 announce what may be the most radical change in the treatment of type 2 diabetes for almost a century. Appearing in Diabetes Care, a journal of the American Diabetes Association, and endorsed by 45 professional societies around the world, the guidelines propose that surgery involving the manipulation of the stomach or intestine be considered as a standard treatment option for appropriate candidates. This development follows multiple clinical trials showing that gastrointestinal surgery can improve blood-sugar levels more effectively than any lifestyle or pharmaceutical intervention, and even lead to long-term remission of the disease
There is a thorough understanding that is needed before undertaking surgery for this. This will be discussed in detail with your specialist. In a sense this fact has been well known among bariatric and metabolic surgeons for some time now. It is nice to see non surgeons coming on board to try and support this. We may finally be on a stepping stone that will stop putting surgery as the last option in these patients, giving patients a real chance to potentially put their diabetes days behind them
Report this post
You must be a HealthShare member to report this post. to your account or now (it's free).
-
Kirsty Woods
Exercise Physiologist
Hi I’m Kirsty Woods,I would like to use my experience, expertise and passion to help you reach your weight, energy and health goalsI have been … View Profile
Recent research suggests that diabetes (type 2) doesn't awlays have to be progressive, and can actually be reversed (i wouldn't necessarily say cured).
You may find this blog of interest: https://intensivedietarymanagement.com/treatments-that-cure-type-2-diabetes-t2d5/
Report this post
You must be a HealthShare member to report this post. to your account or now (it's free).
-
Matthew Rigoni
Dietitian, Nutritionist
Matthew Rigoni is an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) and the Director of REAL Health & Nutrition. He specialises in bridging the gap between high-performance sports … View Profile
While the word "cure" isn't typically used in a clinical setting, the latest peer-reviewed research confirms that Type 2 Diabetes remission is possible for many people. Evidence-based practice has shifted from simply managing symptoms to actively targeting the root causes of metabolic dysfunction. According to clinical consensus, "remission" is defined as maintaining an HbA1c level below 6.5% for at least three months without the use of glucose-lowering medications. The Science of Diabetes Remission The landmark DiRECT (Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial) published in The Lancet provided the strongest evidence to date. This study demonstrated that significant, structured weight loss can "reboot" the way the body handles sugar. The biological mechanism involves two primary factors: Reductions in Organ Fat: Significant weight loss specifically reduces fat stored in the liver and the pancreas. Beta-Cell Recovery: When the "fatty" environment around the pancreas is cleared, the insulin-producing beta cells can often recover their function, allowing the body to manage blood glucose naturally again. Pathways to Remission There is no "one-size-fits-all" diet, but several evidence-based strategies have proven effective in clinical practice: Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT): Working with an Accredited Practising Dietitian to create a roadmap that focuses on nutrient density, satiety, and "food freedom" rather than just restriction. The "Metabolic Speed Bump" Approach: Prioritizing high-fiber carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This combination slows down glucose absorption, reducing the "tax" on your pancreas and lowering the glycemic load of your meals. Physical Activity: Regular movement (both aerobic and resistance training) increases insulin sensitivity in the muscles, which act as the body's primary "sink" for glucose. Can Everyone Reverse Diabetes? The likelihood of achieving remission is highest in individuals who have been diagnosed within the last 5 to 10 years. Over time, the pancreas can lose its ability to recover, which is why early intervention is so critical. Even if full remission isn't achieved, these lifestyle changes significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications like heart disease, kidney issues, and nerve damage. The Bottom Line Type 2 Diabetes does not have to be a one-way street. By focusing on a sustainable, evidence-based nutrition plan and reducing visceral (abdominal) fat, many individuals can successfully lower their blood sugar to non-diabetic levels and reduce their reliance on medication. For more information on Diabetes (what it is, how it works and how to "cure" it) check out this informative page https://realnutrition.com.au/conditions-we-treat/diabetes-dietitian/
Report this post
You must be a HealthShare member to report this post. to your account or now (it's free).
You may also like these related questions
-
Where can I find recipes that are diabetic friendly?
I’ve found it difficult to locate diabetic friendly recipes that are tasty. Is there a website or a cookbook that anyone can recommend? -
What is the treatment for gestational diabetes?
-
How is gestational diabetes diagnosed?
