Is Type 2 Diabetes Reversible?

If you’re one of the more than 21 million Americans with type 2 diabetes, you might assume you need to take insulin or another prescription medication for the rest of your life. However, that isn’t necessarily the case. Lifestyle changes like losing weight and eating healthy can keep your blood sugar optimal and reverse type 2 diabetes.

At Plainsboro Princeton Medical Associates in Plainsboro Township and Monroe, New Jersey, our experienced internal medicine physician, Dr. Aruna Chakrala, understands the dangers of type 2 diabetes. She can develop a personalized treatment plan that lowers your blood sugar and reverses the condition. Here’s how:

What is type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your cells use glucose (blood sugar). If you have type 2 diabetes, your pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin –– a hormone that helps sugar move into your cells. Your cells also become insulin-resistant, meaning they take in less sugar, causing it to build up in your bloodstream.

Most people with type 2 diabetes take prescription drugs to keep blood sugar within the optimal range. However, in some cases, it’s possible to reverse type 2 diabetes through healthy lifestyle changes. Reversing diabetes doesn’t cure it, but it does prevent the need for medication.

Diagnosing type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes develops slowly and rarely presents symptoms in the beginning. Therefore, early diagnosis is crucial to managing and reversing it.

First, your provider orders a glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test, which measures your average blood sugar over the last two or three months. A reading of 5.7% or higher on two separate tests means you have prediabetes, while a reading of 6.5% or higher on two separate tests means you have type 2 diabetes.

If your provider confirms you have type 2 diabetes, they develop a personalized treatment plan.

Reversing type 2 diabetes: what to expect

Reversing type 2 diabetes requires time, effort, and a multi-step approach, which typically includes:

Step 1: Eating a healthy, low-sugar diet

You must avoid sugary foods and beverages to keep your blood sugar within the optimal range. Everyone has varying nutritional needs, but the team often recommends a balanced diet, like the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. 

Step 2: Losing weight

Losing weight is one of the easiest ways to keep your blood sugar within the optimal range. Semaglutide drugs, like Wegovy and Ozempic, can support your weight loss efforts. These drugs called GLP-1 agonists, mimic a hormone that reduces feelings of hunger and makes you feel fuller for longer. 

Step 3: Exercising regularly

When you exercise, it’s easier for your muscles to use blood sugar. Working out also reduces insulin resistance, so sugar isn’t as likely to build up in your bloodstream.  

Don’t worry about joining a gym or completely revamping your lifestyle. For the best results, exercise at least five days a week, alternating between aerobic activity and strength training. Your provider can make recommendations that align with your capabilities and physical fitness level.

How long does it take to reverse type 2 diabetes?

The time it takes to reverse type 2 diabetes depends on various things, including your weight, level of physical activity, and blood sugar levels. 

Some people experience a significant improvement in their blood sugar within a few weeks, but for others, it takes a year or longer. * Be patient, follow your provider’s instructions, and attend each checkup.

High blood sugar increases your risk of other health problems when left uncontrolled. We can help you keep your blood sugar in check and even reverse your type 2 diabetes. Call our office at 609-799-5000 or request an appointment online today. 

*Individual results may vary.