Is your diabetes diagnosis reversible? Read on to find out more.
Living with diabetes can be life-limiting. You have to skip the big bowl of ice cream at a party, monitor your blood sugar levels, and be alert for potential health complications.
Everyone wants to avoid complications like heart disease and kidney problems. Managing your blood sugar levels within a healthy range is key. But can you get there without relying on diabetes medication?
If you have type 1 diabetes, your pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin. You'll need to take insulin daily—there's no cure. Still, lifestyle changes can help reduce how much insulin you need and improve your overall health.
For people with type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes have helped many achieve remission. This means their blood sugar levels return to a healthy range without needing medication. Even without full remission, healthy habits can make a big difference.
How to modify your lifestyle
Healthy habits are essential—but sticking to them can be challenging. Here are some tips from James Clear’s book, Atomic Habits, to help you stay on track:
- Make it obvious: Keep reminders visible. For example, place your running shoes where you'll see them.
- Make it attractive: Create enjoyable incentives for healthy habits.
- Make it easy: Break habits into small, manageable steps.
- Make it part of your identity: Tie your habits to your core values.
- Focus on progress, not perfection: Don’t give up if you slip up.
What lifestyle changes should I make?
New habit 1: Replace processed foods with fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Highly processed foods—like frozen dinners, cereals, canned soups, and many snacks—are often loaded with sugar and can spike your blood sugar. Fibre-rich foods help keep your levels stable.
New habit 2: Do 30 minutes of aerobic exercise daily—like walking, running, or dancing. Just a brisk walk each day can cut your diabetes risk by 30%.
New habit 3: Reduce stress. High stress can raise cortisol, which affects insulin levels. Try:
- Meditation
- Taking breaks during the day
- Getting enough sleep
- Talk therapy
New habit 4: Support your gut health. Studies show a strong link between gut health and type 2 diabetes. Fibre helps feed gut bacteria that produce butyrate—a compound that supports better insulin sensitivity.
New habit 5: Take supplements. Some, like berberine and cinnamon, can help lower insulin levels. Always consult your doctor first. You can also try Manna Blood Sugar Support with meals. This organic supplement is safe to use with medication and helps stabilise blood sugar levels.
Takeaway
A diabetes diagnosis doesn’t mean you’re stuck. With healthy habits—like staying active, eating well, and caring for your mental health—you may reach remission in type 2 diabetes or at least lower your blood sugar. Make your new habits rewarding and track your progress. Small changes can lead to big results.