Experts have revealed six diet and lifestyle changes that could help reverse type 2 diabetes. Over 5.8 million people in the UK are living with diabetes, with type 2 diabetes accounting for roughly 90% of the cases.

Specialists have identified six key dietary and lifestyle modifications that could potentially reverse type 2 diabetes. In the UK, over 5.8 million individuals grapple with diabetes, with approximately 90% diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Recent studies suggest that straightforward adjustments in diet and lifestyle may significantly aid those affected by this condition. Type 2 diabetes, often linked to obesity and inactivity, results in elevated blood sugar as the body fails to produce sufficient insulin. While this can lead to long-term health issues, it is manageable through medication and lifestyle changes.

The American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) has outlined six fundamental lifestyle alterations that may help reverse type 2 diabetes. These include maintaining a nutritious diet, engaging in regular physical activity, ensuring adequate sleep, and steering clear of harmful substances.

Dr. Padmaja Patel, the president of ACLM, commented, “Chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes are frequently treated as lifelong conditions that patients must endure.”

She continued, “We advocate for remission as the primary goal for managing type 2 diabetes and other chronic illnesses.”

“This initiative underscores our collective commitment to advancing beyond mere symptom management towards restoring health, enhancing life quality, and fostering a more sustainable healthcare system,” Dr. Patel concluded.

A good diet is vital for improving type 2 diabetes. It helps to manage weight, regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of health complications.

The ACLM said: “Eat more whole foods and focus on minimally processed, plant-predominant, nutrient-dense meals and snacks.”

Similar to eating nutritiously, physical activity is also important for managing type 2 diabetes. It helps lower blood sugar levels and promote weight loss while reducing the possibility of other health complications.

The ACLM said: “Move every day and incorporate strength, flexibility and aerobic activities into your routine.”

Experts say stress management reduces blood sugar levels and insulin resistance. If you’re stressed, hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline that cause blood sugar spikes which can be harmful.

The ACLM said: “Develop healthy coping skills to meet the ever-changing demands of life and bolster resilience.”

People with type 2 diabetes are recommended to sleep between seven and nine hours every night. Poor sleep raises stress hormones and promotes weight gain which makes glucose management more difficult.

The ACLM said: “Create the right conditions to get 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night to allow the body to reset and recover.”

Healthy relationships are associated with lower blood sugar levels and better management of type 2 diabetes. They generally help reduce stress and promote better self-care.

The ACLM said: “Foster supportive relationships and build connections that bring meaning and purpose to life.”

Avoiding substances such as alcohol, drugs and tobacco helps manage type 2 diabetes. These substances can lead to long-term complications by worsening metabolic health.

The ACLM said: “Avoid behaviours that include the consumption of or exposure to harmful substances.”