Remission is related to your HbA1c levels (an average measure of blood glucose). Specifically:
Remission doesn't reverse any damage which has already happened. But it does help prevent future damage and health complications.
Instead of saying 'reversing type 2 diabetes', experts use the term remission. This is because it is still possible for diabetes to come back.
Diabetes UK has reports of people who have been in remission for up to 15 years. But it's important to remember that remission is not a one-off event and needs to be maintained.
Based on the strongest evidence, diabetes is mainly put into remission by weight loss. This would be around 15kg as quickly and safely as possible.
In the DiRECT study, people ate shakes and soups containing their recommended daily nutrients. This totalled roughly 850 calories per day. This is followed for around 12 weeks.
The study shows that 46% of participants put their diabetes into remission. Their HbA1c level was less than 48mmol/mol (or 6.5%) after two months of not taking medication.
If you want to work towards remission, talk to a healthcare professional. It's important to make sure it’s right for you before you begin.
Today, it’s not known how or whether every person with type 2 diabetes can go into remission.
It is more likely if you lose weight as soon as possible after your diabetes diagnosis. But some people have put their diabetes into remission 25 years after diagnosis.
So far, there is strong research evidence for two approaches that can lead to remission. Both involve losing a significant amount of weight fairly rapidly.
One is to follow an intensive weight-loss programme of around 850 calories a day. The other approach is weight-loss or bariatric surgery. This helps you feel full quicker and helps you reduce the amount you eat.
Other approaches are more gradual and have seen success. The Mediterranean diet or low-carb diet is an example.
It’s important to note that everyone is different, and what works for some may not work for others.
You should ask your diabetes team for help with weight loss. They’ll be able to see if there’s a weight management service in your area. This may give you support and advice from a dietitian.
Whichever approach you consider, it’s important to seek help from your healthcare team.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice. Always speak to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist about your individual care. The information reflects NHS and NICE guidance at the time of publication.
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