The reason why weight loss is beneficial in managing type 2 diabetes – The importance of weight management in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is well supported by various studies. Research has shown that weight loss can have significant benefits for individuals with T2DM. A study published in the BMJ suggests that sustained weight loss of around 15 kg can lead to the reversal of type 2 diabetes in many patients
Additionally, the Look AHEAD study demonstrated that people with obesity and type 2 diabetes can lose weight and maintain weight loss through long-term lifestyle changes, which can lead to improved health outcomes
Furthermore, the American Diabetes Association recommends that all patients with impaired glucose tolerance and impaired fasting glucose should be encouraged to lose weight, as it is associated with a reduced risk of developing T2DM
The benefits of weight loss for individuals with type 2 diabetes include improved mobility, extended life expectancy, reduced risk of complications, and potential remission of the condition
Therefore, weight management, including weight loss, is an important aspect of the treatment and prevention of type 2 diabetes [ Sources 1, 2, 3].
Here’s the reason why weight loss is beneficial in managing type 2 diabetes
Weight loss is beneficial in managing type 2 diabetes because it can improve blood sugar control, reduce insulin resistance, and delay or prevent complications from arising.
Losing weight can also reduce the risk of serious complications like heart disease and stroke, and improve mobility, quality of life, and physical and sexual function
Extra weight around the waist can cause insulin resistance, so losing weight could help the insulin you produce or the insulin you inject work properly
Additionally, weight loss can lead to a reduced need for diabetes medicine and potential remission of the condition
Losing just a few pounds with healthy eating and exercise can also help individuals with type 2 diabetes start to feel better and have more energy
Therefore, weight loss is an important aspect of managing type 2 diabetes and can lead to significant health benefits.
About recent study
A study from RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences provides compelling evidence for the profound health benefits of achieving diabetes remission through weight loss in type 2 diabetes patients. The research, published in the prestigious journal Diabetologia, reveals a striking correlation between diabetes reversal and reduced risk of cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease.
Key findings from the study:
- Weight loss leading to remission: Among participants who achieved remission (defined by reduced medication need and improved blood sugar control), the study observed a 40% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and 33% lower risk of chronic kidney disease compared to those who didn’t achieve remission.
- First of its kind: While previous research has established the link between weight loss and diabetes reversal, this study is among the first to demonstrate how remission, in turn, positively impacts long-term cardiovascular and kidney health.
- Long-term benefits: The greatest risk reduction was seen in participants who maintained remission for at least four years, highlighting the importance of sustained weight management.
Professor Edward Gregg, Head of the RCSI School of Population Health and lead researcher of the study, emphasizes the potential of these findings to transform diabetes treatment and improve the quality of life for patients.
The study, known as Look AHEAD (Action for Health in Diabetes), followed over 5,000 patients for 12 years, comparing the effects of intensive lifestyle intervention (diet and exercise) with diabetes education and support on long-term health outcomes. While 18% of participants achieved remission at some point, the study also underscores the challenge of maintaining weight loss, as only 3% sustained remission by the 8th year.
This research opens exciting new avenues for diabetes management by demonstrating the substantial benefits of prioritizing weight loss for achieving not only diabetes remission but also improved cardiovascular and kidney health. RCSI researchers, in collaboration with their colleagues at Wake Forest University, Brown University, and other institutions, have paved the way for more effective personalized care strategies for millions living with type 2 diabetes worldwide.
How much weight loss is recommended for type 2 diabetes patients
The recommended weight loss for individuals with type 2 diabetes is often expressed as a percentage of their body weight. Research and guidelines suggest the following:
- WebMD states that people with type 2 diabetes can improve their blood sugar control by losing as little as 2% of their body weight
- The CDC recommends losing just 5% to 10% of body weight, which for a 200-pound person is 10 to 20 pounds. This level of weight loss can lead to improved management of blood sugar levels and a reduced need for diabetes medicine
- A study published in The BMJ suggests that sustained weight loss of around 15 kg (approximately 15% of body weight) can lead to the reversal of type 2 diabetes in many patients
Therefore, a weight loss of 5% to 15% of total body weight is often recommended for individuals with type 2 diabetes to achieve significant health benefits, including improved blood sugar control and potential remission of the condition.
ALSO READ: Lower lead exposure may improve heart health, study suggests
