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| - Last Updated on July 22, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A Facebook post claims that you can reverse type 2 diabetes. We did the fact check to term it as Mostly False.
The Claim
According to a Facebook post, it is possible to reverse type 2 diabetes through a workshop. The man featured in the video suggests you can control all the factors responsible for type 2 diabetes like genetics and lifestyle factors.
Fact Check
What is type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin. The condition leads to elevated levels of glucose in the blood, which, if not managed properly, can result in serious health complications. Understanding why type 2 diabetes occurs, the recommended treatments, and whether it can be reversed is crucial for managing this condition effectively.
Why does type 2 diabetes occur?
Type 2 diabetes occurs due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Genetics can play a significant role in the development of the condition. If you have a family history of type 2 diabetes, you are at a higher risk of developing it yourself. However, lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, poor diet, and high blood pressure also contribute significantly to the onset of the disease (American Diabetes Association).
The main issue in type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin. Over time, the pancreas cannot keep up with the increased demand for insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. This imbalance can cause various health issues, including heart disease, nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision problems.
What are the recommended treatments for type 2 diabetes?
The management of type 2 diabetes generally involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. The main goal is to maintain blood sugar levels within a target range to prevent complications. Here are some recommended treatments:
- Diet and exercise: A healthy diet low in refined sugars and high in fibre can help control blood sugar levels. Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and helps with weight management.
- Medications: Several medications can help manage blood sugar levels. Metformin is often the first-line treatment. Other drugs include sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and SGLT2 inhibitors.
- Insulin therapy: Some people with type 2 diabetes may need insulin therapy if other medications are not effective.
- Monitoring blood sugar levels: Regular monitoring helps track the effectiveness of treatment and make necessary adjustments.
Is it possible to reverse type 2 diabetes?
No, not really. Type 2 diabetes cannot be entirely reversed, but it can be put into remission through significant lifestyle changes and medical interventions. Remission means that the signs and symptoms of diabetes have subsided, and blood sugar levels are within a normal range without medication. Scientific evidence suggests that weight loss, especially when achieved through bariatric surgery or very low-calorie diets, can lead to remission in some individuals. However, this does not mean the disease is cured.
A 2018 study demonstrates that intensive weight management can lead to remission of type 2 diabetes in some people. Participants who lost a significant amount of weight through a strict low-calorie diet experienced remission, but maintaining this state required ongoing lifestyle changes. The risk of relapse remains high if healthy habits are not maintained.
Another significant study conducted in 2019, highlighted the efficacy of a low-calorie diet in inducing remission. This study shows that nearly half of the participants who adhered to a calorie-restricted diet achieved and maintained remission for at least a year. Therefore, while remission is possible, it is not the same as a cure. Continuous management and lifestyle adjustments are necessary to sustain normal blood sugar levels.
In an earlier interview with THIP Media, Dr V Mohan talked about diabetes care and reversal in depth. According to him, “Diabetes Reversal has become a very popular term in recent times. However, it is not new. The correct term for it, is ‘Remission of Diabetes’, because, remission implies that the disease or disorder has temporarily gone into a shell and that it may come back any time.”
We also interviewed Dr Ashirwad Pawar, a Diabetologist at Sai Aashirwad Hospital in Mumbai about the possibility of diabetes reversal. He clarifies, “Before discussing diabetes reversal, it’s important to understand remission and how it differs. Remission means your diabetes symptoms have lessened, and your blood sugar levels are normal without medication, achieved through lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and weight loss. However, this doesn’t mean the condition is cured. It can return if these changes aren’t maintained.”
Dr Rammanohar P, Research Director of Amrita School of Ayurveda says, “In Ayurveda, early-stage diabetes is referred to as Kapha Prameha. It can be cured by altering lifestyle factors and using supporting medicines. Advanced diabetes, known as Pitta Prameha, is not curable but can be managed with lifelong medications. In very advanced stages, called Vata Prameha, diabetes becomes unmanageable. There is no magical herb or formulation discovered so far for a complete cure.”
When can it be dangerous to ignore diabetes medication?
Ignoring diabetes medication can be extremely dangerous. Medications help manage blood sugar levels and prevent complications due to type 2 diabetes. Without proper medication, blood sugar levels can rise uncontrollably, leading to hyperglycaemia. This condition can cause severe complications such as:
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): A life-threatening condition where the body starts breaking down fats too quickly, producing ketones that acidify the blood (American Diabetes Association).
- Hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state (HHS): Severe dehydration and extremely high blood sugar levels that can lead to coma or death.
- Cardiovascular disease: Uncontrolled diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes (British Heart Foundation).
- Nerve damage (neuropathy): High blood sugar levels can damage nerves, leading to pain, tingling, and loss of sensation, particularly in the feet.
- Kidney damage (nephropathy): Diabetes can damage the kidneys’ filtering system, potentially leading to kidney failure.
- Eye damage (retinopathy): High blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to blindness.
In conclusion, lifestyle changes and weight loss can help manage type 2 diabetes and even put it into remission. However, claiming that you can reverse type 2 diabetes is misleading. Continuous medical care and lifestyle adjustments are essential to prevent serious health complications. Hence, do not fall for claims suggesting miraculous cure for diabetes, or natural cure for diabetes using acupressure. The medical community does not support these claims, and they still remain unproven. Ignoring prescribed medications can lead to dangerous and life-threatening conditions. Always consult with healthcare professionals before making any significant changes to diabetes management plans.
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