How Losing Weight Can Improve Type-2 Diabetes

Type-2 diabetes has long been considered a chronic, progressive condition, experts still believe it is something to be managed, not reversed.

But growing evidence now shows that for many people, especially those recently diagnosed, significant weight loss can do more than just improve blood sugar control — it can send type 2 diabetes into remission. This means with weight loss, you are able to reduce medication intake.

Recent studies and expert insights are reshaping the narrative around what’s possible with lifestyle changes.

The Link Between Weight and Diabetes

Excess weight, especially fat stored around the abdomen, plays a big role in the development of insulin resistance — a hallmark of type 2 diabetes.

When our body becomes resistant to insulin, glucose builds up in the blood instead of being used for energy, leading to high blood sugar levels.

The reason high blood sugar is bad is because it can damage your organs, nerves, and blood vessels over time. Not something we want, of course.

According to WebMD, a low-calorie diet or even fasting can significantly improve how your body uses insulin. For some people, this improvement is enough to reduce or eliminate the need for diabetes medications!

Diabetes Remission: What the Science Says

A recent study published in The Lancet reveals that losing 10% or more of body weight can lead to long-term remission of type 2 diabetes for many people.

Those involved in the study who achieved this level of weight loss saw improvements in their blood sugar control without medication — even after 5 years!

Diabetes UK’s research supports these findings as well. Their long-term trial showed that people who lost significant weight and maintained it were able to keep type 2 diabetes in remission for several years. Importantly, remission was more likely if the weight loss occurred within the first few years of diagnosis, stressing the importance of immediate action.

Reuters also reported on these findings, highlighting that weight loss not only improves blood sugar levels but can also halt the progression of the disease — or even reverse it altogether in some cases.

How Can I Lose Weight?

Weight loss for diabetes remission doesn't always require extreme diets or surgery. Most of the studies referenced above used structured, calorie-controlled meal plans alongside lifestyle coaching. Key strategies included:

Meal replacements during the initial phase to simplify calorie control. Swapping out processed foods for whole foods is a good start.
Gradual reintroduction of regular meals focused on whole, nutritious, low sugar and calorie foods.
Behavioral support to maintain weight loss and prevent relapse through physical activity.

WebMD emphasizes that physical activity, while not always necessary for initial remission, plays an important role in maintaining weight loss and improving insulin sensitivity.

Hope For Diabetics

The evidence is clear: losing weight has the potential to reverse type-2 diabetes. The is good news, especially since it was long believed diabetes is a permanent condition.

Thanks to the hard work of researchers and people who joined the studies, there is strong proof that many people with diabetes, especially those who were just diagnosed, can start losing weight to help their body begin to heal.

If you or someone you know is living with type 2 diabetes, talk to your doctor about whether a structured weight loss program might be a path to remission. Maintaining a diet that reduces processed and overly-sweetened ingredients is key to balancing your body.

Sources:

Love great food and exclusive perks? Sign up as a Savor of Life member today and enjoy a FREE Buffalo Cauliflower with your main dish! Don't miss out—join now!

👉 Claim your reward here: Savor of Life Membership Offer

Planning an event? Let Savor of Life bring the flavors to you! From social gatherings to large celebrations, our catering services offer delicious, high-quality meals tailored to your needs.

📅 Book now and make your event unforgettable! → Savor of Life Catering

Ready to transform your wellness with specially made meals? Sign up for our Savor Transform 10-Day Challenge and enjoy exclusive perks, special offers, and unforgettable meals!

👉 Join now: