I was just diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Can it be reversed, and what kind of doctor should I see?
The question, asked by a man aged 30 to 44
I was recently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and honestly wasn't expecting it. My blood sugar has been high on a few recent tests, and I'm now trying to understand what this means for me long term. I've heard that Type 2 diabetes can sometimes be put into remission with the right changes, but I'm not sure how realistic that is or where to start. Should I see a diabetologist, endocrinologist or someone who focuses on metabolic health, and what should I be doing at this stage?
A diabetes diagnosis can be a shock, but here is the good thing: Type 2 diabetes can often be put into remission if detected early. This also means normal blood sugar without many medicines. Here’s what could be happening.
Cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, and as a result, sugar remains in the bloodstream.
The pancreas makes up for this by producing more insulin.
The fat around the liver and pancreas can also contribute to high insulin levels. Hence, losing fat can also work towards remission.
Refined carbohydrates, physical inactivity, lack of sleep, and stress contribute to insulin resistance.
Now it is absolutely possible to reverse insulin resistance if the pancreas continues to generate more insulin. This can be done with the help of a diabetologist or endocrinologist. Functional medicine can help in finding the root cause and working towards lifestyle changes.
Suggested Tests
- HbA1c, fasting glucose
- Fasting insulin and C-peptide,
- GAD antibodies
- Lipid profile
- Kidney function with eGFR, and urine albumin to creatinine ratio
- Liver function tests and an ultrasound of the abdomen, to check for fatty liver
- TSH
- Vitamin B12, as a baseline before starting treatment
- Dilated eye examination, to check the retina
- Foot examination, including sensation testing
- Blood pressure and ECG
How Clinic Living Plus Can Help
At CLP, diabetes reversal is one of our strongest and most promising programmes. In our disease reversal programmes, clients reduce their medication by an average of 70%, under a doctor’s supervision.
A detailed assessment is done where fasting insulin and C-peptide will aid in assessing the amount of insulin produced by your pancreas so we can set achievable goals.
A holistic treatment plan that includes doctors, nutritionist, fitness trainer and mental wellness experts.
Personalized nutrition plan that helps in reducing sugar spikes.
We offer treatments such as the GlucoFlow drip that contains B vitamins, alpha lipoic acid, and chromium in order to increase insulin sensitivity at the cellular level.
Muscle building workouts, since they require sugar, the fitness trainer will help in working out exercises that naturally reduce blood sugar.
As the figures improve, our doctors will slowly start reducing the medicines.
A routine HbA1c test, glucose testing and follow-ups.
The majority of our clients have been successful in reversing their diabetes, losing weight and regaining their energy.
Lifestyle & Nutrition Tips
- Don’t have very carb-heavy meals,include adequate protein and fiber, only carbs can spike your blood sugar.
- Walk 10-15 mins after meals. This way, the sugar is absorbed by the muscles in your legs and to improve insulin sensitivity.
- If you are overweight, work towards a gradual weight loss.
- Monitor your blood glucose as advised by your medical professional.
What to Do Next
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