Can type 2 diabetes be reversed?

It can go into remission — normal blood glucose without medication — particularly with substantial weight loss within the first few years of diagnosis, via intensive diet programmes or bariatric surgery. Remission requires maintained weight loss and continued monitoring.

Remission is most achievable within the first 5-6 years of diagnosis and with weight loss of around 10-15 kg. Trials have achieved it in roughly a third to a half of participants.

Remission is not cure. Annual HbA1c, eye and kidney screening should continue, since the condition can return with weight regain.