Type 2 Diabetes Diet and Remission in Ahmedabad
Written by Palak, Clinical Dietitian. Reviewed by Dr Arth Shah, MCh Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.
For many people with type 2 diabetes – especially within the first few years of diagnosis – losing a significant amount of weight can bring blood sugar back to the normal range without diabetes medicines. This is called remission, and it was shown in the DiRECT trial. It must be done with your doctor, because medicines often need reducing as the diet changes. Type 1 diabetes cannot be reversed.
Reversal or remission?
“Diabetes reversal” is the phrase most people search, but “remission” is more accurate. Blood sugar can return to normal, but the tendency remains – if weight returns, diabetes usually does too. Remission is usually defined as an HbA1c below 6.5% for at least three months without diabetes medicines.
Who is most likely to reach remission
- Type 2 diabetes, diagnosed within the last few years.
- Carrying extra weight, especially around the waist.
- Able to lose a meaningful amount of weight – often 10 kg or more – and keep it off.
Others still benefit greatly: better control, fewer medicines, and lower risk of complications.
Safety first - your medicines
Never stop or reduce diabetes medicines on your own. Eating fewer carbohydrates while on insulin or certain tablets can cause dangerously low blood sugar. We work with your doctor, who adjusts your medicines as your diet changes. Check your sugar as advised, and know the signs of a low: shaking, sweating, confusion. |
The Gujarati plate
Swap | For |
Three rotlis | One or two rotlis (or bajra rotla) with more sabzi and dal |
Rice at every meal | Smaller portion, with dal and salad, once a day |
Sweetened tea | Unsweetened, or fewer cups |
Farsan as a snack | Roasted chana, sprouts, cucumber, a handful of nuts |
Fruit juice | Whole fruit in portions |
Late heavy dinner | Earlier, lighter dinner |
Festivals, weddings and farsan
Navratri, Diwali, Uttarayan and weddings bring sweets and fried food. The plan does not pretend these do not happen – it plans for them: smaller portions, protein first, a walk after meals, and getting back on track the next day.
Tracking progress
HbA1c every three months, fasting and post-meal sugars as advised, weight and waist, and kidney and lipid tests with your doctor.
Your dietitian
Palak is a clinical dietitian with qualification and years of experience. She works alongside Dr Arth Shah, MCh Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, and the clinic’s surgical team.
Book a consultation
Rejuva Aesthetica – Diet & Wellness 102, Himalaya Emerald, Besides IOC Petrol Pump, Near Shivranjani Over Bridge, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380015 Phone: +91 74360 00990 | 079 2692 9299 Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Closed Sundays and public holidays. |
Frequently Asked Question
It can go into remission for many people, especially early on, through significant weight loss. Blood sugar returns to normal without medicines, but the tendency remains.
No. Type 1 diabetes needs insulin for life. Diet helps with control but cannot replace insulin.
Never on your own. Your doctor adjusts medicines as your diet and sugar levels change.
In research, remission was most likely with around 10-15 kg of weight loss, but any loss improves control.
Yes, in controlled portions with plenty of vegetables, dal and protein.
Whole fruit in sensible portions is fine for most people; avoid juice.
Many people see improved sugar within weeks; remission, if achieved, is usually confirmed after several months.
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