Being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes can feel overwhelming. Many patients wonder if they can control their fate or if a chronic disease will always be in their cards. While there’s no permanent cure for diabetes, some patients can achieve remission with consistent lifestyle changes. This means your blood sugar levels can return to a healthy range without medications, but it’s important to know that the potential for diabetes remains—so staying on track is key.
Understanding Remission vs. Cure
When we say “remission,” we’re talking about reaching and maintaining normal blood sugar levels without medication for at least three months. It’s not a permanent fix, and the condition will return if you stop the healthy habits. Your body might be managing things well for now, but sticking with your lifestyle changes matters a lot.
Factors Influencing Remission
Achieving remission is influenced by several factors:
- Bariatric Surgery: Experts have long seen a connection between bariatric surgery and diabetic remission, perhaps due to the gut’s creation of insulin-stimulating hormones during recovery. Researchers estimate that upwards of 75% of patients who undergo bariatric surgery achieve remission from type 2 diabetes.
- Weight Loss: Of course, losing extra weight – even just 5-10% of your body weight – can dramatically improve blood sugar levels. Recent studies have shown that individuals who lose at least 33 pounds (around 15 kg) through any evidence-based approach have a higher likelihood of entering diabetic remission.
- Lower A1cs: Studies have found that patients with lower A1cs at the time of diagnosis have a better chance of remission. Patients that require less medications to control their condition are also more likely to achieve remission than those who struggle to maintain their blood sugar levels.
- Timing: The sooner after diagnosis you make changes, the better your chances are.
- Overall Health: If diabetes is your main health issue (without many complications), you’re more likely to see remission.
Actionable Steps Toward Remission
While remission isn’t guaranteed, adopting the following lifestyle changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and overall health:
- Eat Real, Whole Foods: Swap sugary, processed foods for fresh veggies, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Think more grilled salmon and roasted veggies, less drive-thru burgers and fries.
- Get Moving: Aim for 150 minutes a week of activity you enjoy—whether it’s brisk walking, dancing in your kitchen, cycling, or swimming. Consistency matters most.
- Keep Tabs on Your Blood Sugar: Regular monitoring helps you understand your body’s response to food, stress, and exercise, guiding better choices.
- Build a Support Team: Talk regularly with your doctor or diabetes educator and consider joining support groups. Managing diabetes is easier when you’re not alone.
Achieving remission from type 2 diabetes is all about making consistent, sustainable changes. Even if remission isn’t in the cards for everyone, adopting these healthier habits still means better overall health and quality of life. Plus, patients who do enter remission aren’t out of the woods – there is no cure for Type 2 Diabetes, so regular check-ups and consistent glucose monitoring are still a must!
We’re Here to Support You
At America’s Best Care Plus, we understand the challenges of managing type 2 diabetes. Our diabetes supply programs offer the tools and resources you need on your health journey. Explore our blog for more diabetic health tips and information.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and with the right support and determination, managing type 2 diabetes effectively is within reach.