Is there a cure for Type 2 Diabetes: Fact vs Fiction
In the world of chronic health conditions, type 2 diabetes stands out as a major concern, affecting millions globally. To be precise, this condition affects over 780 million people and leaves many questioning; is there a cure for diabetes? (1) This blog aims to unravel the truth about managing and potentially curing type 2 diabetes, distinguishing between established facts and common misconceptions.
In this article you will learn:
Understanding Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterised by high blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production. Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is often diagnosed in childhood and involves an autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells, type 2 diabetes is typically associated with lifestyle factors and genetics. According to Diabetes Australia, over 1.3 million Australians are living with Type 2 diabetes, making up approximately 70% of all diabetes cases. (2) This condition is often progressive, but with effective management, individuals can lead healthy lives.
Current Research on Cures
There isn’t a cure for type 2 diabetes just yet, however this quest is ongoing. Research projects across the world are currently pushing boundaries working towards prevention and remission of diabetes. (3,4) The science focuses on various approaches, including medication, surgical interventions like bariatric surgery, and advanced therapies such as islet cell transplantation. While these treatments can significantly improve blood sugar control and, in some cases, lead to remission, they are not universally applicable or guaranteed to be permanent solutions. For instance, bariatric surgery has shown promising results in inducing remission, but it’s suitable only for certain individuals and carries its own risks. (5) Research continues to explore gene therapy and other innovative treatments, offering hope for more effective solutions in the future
Myths vs Facts
There are numerous misconceptions about curing type 2 diabetes. One common myth is that type 2 diabetes can be reversed – for good. Unfortunately, this is not yet the case, as research by a variety of respected organisations has shown that the disease is metabolically reversible only for a period of time. (6). However, the saving grace is that remission, where blood sugars return to non-diabetes range without medication, is possible for some. (7) It’s important to differentiate between remission and cure; if diabetes were to be cured, it wouldn’t return, whereas the potential for diabetes to return remains if the disease is in remission.
Another common misconception is that dietary supplements or specific ‘superfoods’ can cure the condition, which lacks scientific backing. If you were to google this for yourself, you’d find that there are plenty of supposed ‘superfoods’ which assist in the management of the condition, yet they lack the capacity to cure the disease.
How do I achieve Diabetes Remission?
Achieving type 2 diabetes remission can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications and improve overall health. However, a lot of the research suggests it is something that requires action directly after a diabetes diagnosis. That action being, weight loss. With that being said, there have been people who have put their diabetes into remission after living with the disease for 25 years. (3)
The strongest evidence suggests weight loss is the key to diabetes remission. Research from the UK DiRECT study has shown that with 10-15kg of weight loss, remission was achieved at one year in 57% of participants and and 87% for those that lost more than 15kg. (8) To achieve such results, participants were placed in an intensive weight management program. If you’re thinking this is the path for you, it’s important that you talk to a healthcare professional and seek support as you may need medication changes. They may also be able to provide direction for dietary modifications and ways to increase physical activity.
Lifestyle Management
We know that lifestyle changes are pivotal in managing type 2 diabetes. These include:
Implementing these lifestyle changes can not only manage diabetes but also reduce the risk of complications like heart disease and stroke.
Conclusion
While a universal cure for type 2 diabetes remains elusive, effective management through lifestyle changes, medication, and in some cases, surgical interventions, can lead to significant improvements and even remission. Understanding the facts about type 2 diabetes and dispelling myths are key steps in managing this condition. Always consult healthcare professionals for personalised advice and treatment plans.
