
Is it really possible to reverse your type 2 diabetes?
There has been much written in the news recently about the possibility of people being able to 'reverse' their diabetes by using certain diets but before looking at whether this is or is not possible it's important to understand exactly what diabetes is in the first place. This is a condition where the blood sugar level is higher than normal.
There are two main types of diabetes – type 1 and 2. Type 1 diabetes (also called insulin-dependent diabetes) is usually seen in young people whereas Type 2 diabetes (usually non insulin-dependent diabetes) tends to affect adults over 40 and overweight people. Other types of diabetes include gestational diabetes that is only associated with pregnancy, and secondary diabetes where the diabetes is caused by other conditions (e.g. inflammation of the pancreas) or by certain medications such as steroids.
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas gland in the abdomen, and this controls the use of glucose (sugar) within the body. The blood sugar level will rise if the pancreas produces little or no insulin (Type 1 diabetes), or if the pancreas produces insulin, but it's inadequate for the body's needs and its effectiveness is reduced (Type 2 diabetes). Type 2 diabetes is undoubtedly related to factors associated with a Western lifestyle, since it's most common in people who are overweight and who don't get enough exercise.
Typical symptoms of diabetes include:
Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Tiredness
Weight loss, although appetite often increases (especially in Type 1 diabetes)
Itchiness, especially around the genitals
Recurrent i
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