
Understanding these dangers and exploring scientifically backed strategies can help reverse type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions globally. It poses significant health risks and, left unmanaged, can lead to cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney failure, vision loss and other ailments. According to the American Heart Association, adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to die from heart disease than those without.
Understanding these dangers and exploring scientifically backed strategies can help reverse type 2 diabetes. Some options:
Diet and exercise
Type 2 diabetes is often linked to lifestyle factors. Reversal involves achieving normal blood sugar levels without medication, a goal supported by scientific studies.
Adopt a low-calorie diet. A study in the journal Diabetes Care shows that consuming 600 to 800 calories daily for eight to 12 weeks significantly reduced fat deposits in the liver and pancreas. This led to improved insulin production and sensitivity. After achieving remission, transitioning to a balanced diet that avoids high-calorie, processed foods is essential to maintain results.
Reduce refined carbs and sugars. This will significantly lower blood sugar spikes. Foods to avoid include white bread, white rice, pastries, sugary cereals, sweetened beverages (like soda and energy drinks), candy, and desserts such as cakes and cookies. Focus instead on a diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats and fiber.
Get active. Consistent exercise enhances the body’s ability to utilize insulin effectively. Aerobic exercises such as walking and cycling show benefits, along with resistance training.
Try intermittent fasting. Limiting food intake to specific times shows lower fasting glucose levels and improved insulin sensitivity. Research in cellular metabolism highlights the potential of intermittent fasting to decrease body weight and reduce blood sugar levels.
Medicine and surgery
Metformin One of the most widely prescribed medications for managing type 2 diabetes, metformin works by reducing glucose production in the liver, which boosts insulin sensitivity and enhances glucose uptake by muscles. Metformin is often the first-line treatment due to its effectiveness and safety profile.
Semiglutide Increasingly used for managing type 2 diabetes, semiglutide helps regulate blood sugar by mimicking the action of the hormone GLP-1, which increases insulin production in response to meals, slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite. According to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, semiglutide also significantly lowers HbA1c levels and supports weight loss, making it particularly effective for those with obesity-related diabetes.
Weight-loss surgery For people with severe obesity, bariatric surgery has been a successful intervention. Procedures such as gastric bypass not only promote substantial weight loss but also have immediate effects on blood sugar control, often leading to type 2 remission.
Army veteran Jennifer Campbell is a certified personal trainer with a master’s degree in nutrition education. She is past commander of the California Legion’s 24th DiStrict and Hollywood Post 43.
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