You may have heard stories of people “reversing” Type 2 diabetes. The more accurate term is remission—and yes, it’s possible for some people.
What to know
- Definitions:
- Diabetes remission typically means A1c below the diabetes range for at least 3 months without glucose‑lowering medications. Many experts use A1c <6.5% off meds; always confirm with your clinician.
- How remission can happen:
- Meaningful weight loss (often 10–15%+), especially early after diagnosis.
- Calorie‑restricted or formula‑based meal programs under clinical guidance.
- Metabolic/bariatric surgery for eligible individuals.
- Sustained lifestyle changes that reduce liver and pancreatic fat and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Not a cure:
- The biology that predisposes to diabetes often remains. Glucose can rise again with weight regain, illness, or stress.
- Health still needs monitoring:
- Even in remission, routine checks for glucose, blood pressure, lipids, eyes, kidneys, and feet remain important.
Take action
- Discuss a structured plan:
- Low‑calorie or meal‑replacement programs with medical oversight.
- Mediterranean, plant‑forward, or lower‑carb templates—choose a pattern you can sustain.
- Aim for gradual, clinically safe weight loss:
- Start with 5–10%, reassess, then consider further goals if appropriate.
- Activity strategy:
- 150+ minutes/week aerobic plus 2–3 days resistance; build muscle to improve insulin sensitivity.
- Tools that can help:
- Behavioral coaching, food logging, CGM insights, and—if appropriate—weight‑focused medications.
- Maintenance:
- Plan for “after the diet.” Keep 2–3 simple breakfasts and lunches, regular weigh‑ins, and a relapse plan for holidays and travel.
Talk to your doctor about
- Whether you’re a good candidate for intensive lifestyle interventions, weight‑loss medications, or metabolic surgery.
- Safe medication de‑intensification if your numbers normalize.
- Monitoring schedule during active weight loss and remission.
Quick glossary
- Remission: A1c below diabetes threshold without meds for a sustained period.
- Metabolic surgery: bariatric procedures that improve weight and glycemia.
- Hepatic/pancreatic fat: internal fat linked to insulin resistance and beta‑cell stress.
Safety note
Do not stop medications on your own. Rapid changes in diet or weight can alter insulin/med needs—coordinate closely with your care team.
References
- ADA/EASD Consensus on Remission
- Trials on intensive lifestyle and surgery for Type 2 diabetes
- ADA Standards of Care