Achieving Type 2 Diabetes Remission in Three Months Is Possible for Some Patients

Some people with Type 2 diabetes can achieve remission within 90 days, though success depends on individual health factors like body weight, insulin resistance, pancreatic function, and how long they have had the condition. Dr Himika Chawla, Senior Consultant in Endocrinology and Diabetology at PSRI Hospital, states that blood sugar levels can be medically lowered and put into remission in this timeframe.

What Remission Means

Remission means having an HbA1c level below 6.5 per cent for at least three months without taking glucose-lowering medication. However, this does not mean a permanent cure. Blood sugar levels can rise again if healthy habits are not kept up, so continued monitoring remains vital.

Diet and Exercise

Dr Chawla recommends eating protein-rich foods, nuts, green vegetables, and pulses, along with controlled portions of fruits. Refined carbohydrates, sugary drinks, sweets, and processed foods should be limited, and people must avoid overeating by practising portion control. For exercise, she advises 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, plus strength training two to three days a week. A short 10 to 15-minute walk after meals also helps reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes. Other factors like adequate sleep, stress control, avoiding tobacco, limiting excess alcohol, and keeping a healthy body weight improve glucose control.

Medication Changes

Some individuals can reduce their diabetes medication dose or stop taking it entirely, but this varies for everyone based on their condition's severity and response to lifestyle changes. Patients taking insulin or other medicines must never reduce or stop treatment on their own, as sudden changes can cause dangerous blood sugar levels.

Context

Type 2 diabetes is a common metabolic condition closely tied to lifestyle and diet, making daily habits central to managing blood sugar levels over time. Medical experts advise close supervision when making any major changes to medication or daily routines.