Is it really possible to cure type 2 diabetes with diet and

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body can still make some insulin, but not enough, or when the insulin that is produced
does not work properly (known as insulin resistance).

Insulin acts as a key unlocking the cells, so if there is not enough insulin, or it is not working properly, the cells are only partially
unlocked (or not at all) and glucose builds up in the blood. Type 2 diabetes usually appears in people over the age of 40, though in South Asian and black people, who are at greater risk, it often appears from the age of 25. It is also becoming more common in children, adolescents and young people of all ethnicities.

Type 2 diabetes accounts for approximately 90 per cent of all people with diabetes and is treated with a healthy diet and increased physical activity. In addition to this, medication and/or insulin is often required.

Although diabetes cannot yet be cured it can be managed very successfully. This is likely to involve lifestyle changes that will have enormous health benefits and allow you to continue your normal day-to-day life.

The aim of managing your diabetes is to keep your blood glucose, blood pressure and blood fat levels as close to target as possible. This will also help reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition and over time it may be that following a healthy eating plan and being physically active is not enough to control blood glucose levels. If this happens, your diabetes healthcare team may advise you to start or change medication. Some people with Type 2 diabetes will also need to take insulin to help control their blood glucose levels.

That said, I know from personal experience that clients of mine have reduced or even eliminated their need for medication by losing weight and/or through following a sensible eating and physical activity plan.

I hope that you find this information useful. Feel free to add me as a friend if you wish.

Mark Green
Personal Trainer, Exercise Referral Instructor and
Specialist Exercise Instructor (Diabetes and Obesity Management) REPs Level 4
Based in Bristol, UK

The problem is not that you don't have enough insulin. This is a common misconception. You have too much insulin circulating, conferring resistance in peripheral tissues via receptor downregulation (GLUT4 receptor). Most importantly, exercise can increase GLUT4 receptors, allowing your insulin work effectively. With sufficient time exercising and decrease in fat, you can cause a decrease in insulin secretion, saving your beta-cells from potential burn-out.

Kevin Barrette
Boston University School of Medicine