Dr Masud Haq, a consultant in diabetes and endocrinology at Nuffield Health Brighton Hospital, told the Daily Express that weight loss, regular exercise and dietary changes can put type 2 diabetes into remission for many patients.
Weight loss is the primary driver of remission
Around 85% of people living with type 2 diabetes in the UK are carrying extra weight or living with obesity, according to Diabetes UK, making weight reduction a critical first step. Dr Haq recommends enrolling in an NHS 12-month low-calorie weight management programme or following a structured diet plan such as low-calorie, low-carbohydrate, low-fat, Mediterranean or meal replacement approaches. He also notes that bariatric surgery has strong evidence supporting its effectiveness in achieving remission, though patients should consult their GP before pursuing any option.
Exercise improves insulin sensitivity when combined with diet
Physical activity increases glucose uptake by muscles, which helps the body use insulin more effectively and can lower blood pressure and cholesterol — key factors in reducing diabetes-related complications. Dr Haq advises making incremental increases in daily movement, such as raising step count from 8,000 to 10,000 per day and aiming for 30 minutes of activity five days a week. He stresses that exercise does not need to be intense; activities like gardening, housework, walking, strength training or yoga are effective when paired with dietary changes.
Remission reduces long-term health risks
Achieving remission can lower the chances of developing serious complications including heart disease, stroke, sight loss and kidney disease, while also improving energy levels and sleep quality. This aligns with findings from the Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial (DiRECT) in 2017, which showed that nearly half of participants achieved remission through a low-calorie diet, reinforcing that lifestyle intervention can reverse type 2 diabetes in many cases.
Can type 2 diabetes be permanently cured?
Remission means blood sugar levels are under control without medication, but it is not considered a permanent cure; ongoing lifestyle management is needed to maintain it.
Is medication still necessary during remission efforts?
Some patients may still need medication initially, but Dr Haq states that lifestyle changes can reduce or eliminate the need for drugs over time, especially when weight loss and exercise are sustained.
