A diabetes diagnosis is not necessarily permanent, depending on the type of diabetes diagnosed. With Type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Without insulin, the body cannot process sugar, and blood sugar levels remain high. Type 1 diabetes is lifelong and currently cannot be cured.
However, Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease, is often caused by lifestyle factors such as poor diet and lack of exercise. If those lifestyle factors are addressed through healthy habits, it may be possible to reverse Type 2 diabetes, and lower blood sugar levels to the point that diabetes is no longer present.
Diabetes can also be classified as prediabetes, an intermediate stage between normal blood sugar levels and diabetes. If prediabetes is addressed through lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, increased exercise, and a healthy diet, it is possible to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.
In summary, while a diabetes diagnosis is not necessarily permanent, it is important to note the type of diabetes diagnosed and to take steps to address it accordingly. With proper management, it may be possible to reverse Type 2 diabetes and prevent or delay the onset of diabetes in those with prediabetes.