What is Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes (previously known as Adult-Onset Diabetes) is the more common type of diabetes that occurs when one’s blood sugar or glucose levels are too high for two reasons: either the body is not making enough insulin, or it is not using insulin effectively. Symptoms may include increased thirst, hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, numbness or tingling in the extremities, sores that do not heal, and unexplained weight loss.
How to Screen For It
The Healthier SG program offers free Type 2 diabetes screenings for individuals aged 60 and above. In November 2023, SG citizens and permanent residents aged 40-59 were the next batch invited to enrol in the Healthier SG program.
Various screening tests are available, including fasting blood sugar tests, casual blood sugar tests, HbA1c tests, and Oral Glucose Tolerance Tests (OGTT). These tests can be done at general practice clinics. Their costs range from 20 to 50 SGD for OGTT tests and 50 to 500 SGD for health screenings. Screen for Life clinics provide testing at lower costs, ranging from 0 to 5 SGD for adults above 40 years old.
What Causes Type 2 Diabetes Among Singaporeans?
Many factors influence type 2 diabetes, which affects a significant portion of the population (about 1 in three Singaporeans has a lifetime risk). Here are some of the significant risk factors that you should know.
Overweight/obesity
Excess body weight, particularly around the abdomen, is a significant risk factor. The extra weight may trigger the release of pro-inflammatory chemicals from fat cells. These chemicals can reduce our body’s sensitivity to insulin (insulin resistance). It will be harder for the body to regulate blood sugar levels effectively.
Obesity is also linked to prediabetes, a metabolic condition that usually progresses to type 2 diabetes if neglected.
A Sedentary Lifestyle
Lack of physical activity and prolonged sitting also increase your risk of type 2 diabetes.
Family History of the Disease in a Parent or Sibling
Genetics play a role in the development of this disease. Individuals with a parent or sibling diagnosed with the condition have a higher risk.
Gestational Diabetes
When a woman has gestational diabetes during pregnancy, she has a higher risk of having type 2 diabetes later in life. Also, one risk factor is delivering a baby weighing over 4 kg.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
PCOS is a hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS often have insulin resistance, meaning they have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D).
Existing Data on the Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes in Singapore
In Singapore, the prevalence of diabetes has been a concern for public health authorities. According to recent data:
2019-2020: The prevalence of diabetes among Singaporeans was 9.5% during this period.
2021-2022: Its prevalence decreased slightly to 8.5% during this period.
These statistics provide an overall picture of diabetes cases in Singapore. But it is important to note that type 2 diabetes accounts for the vast majority of the cases in the country. There is currently no readily available data specifying the exact number or percentage of type 2 diabetes compared to other types of diabetes.
Despite the lack of specific data on type 2 diabetes, its high overall prevalence in Singapore warrants the need for continued efforts in preventing, detecting early, and managing the condition. It is more crucial than ever to address controlled risk factors to combat this chronic disease.
The Answer to the Main Question
Yes, reversal is possible through weight loss.
Recent studies have shown that type 2 diabetes can be reversed through significant weight loss. Insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control are improved with the loss of the extra weight. It also helps reduce the amount of fat in the liver and pancreas, the key organs regulating glucose levels. We don’t want these organs overburdened with excess fat because their ability to function properly would be impaired, resulting in insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels.
Importance and Benefits of Reversal
- Better blood sugar control > reduced risk of complications like nerve damage and cardiovascular problems
- Reduced dependence on medications for type 2 diabetes > some medications can have side effects
- Improved overall quality of life > improved energy levels, better sleep quality
- Long-term health benefits > also a lowered risk of having chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer
Options for Reversing Type 2 Diabetes
There are several available options you can try if you are looking to reverse type 2 diabetes.
Exercise
Regular physical activity is important to address or reverse type 2 diabetes. Exercise does help improve insulin sensitivity. How? It allows the body to better utilise glucose for energy. You may also want to engage in a combo of aerobic exercises like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling and resistance training (using weights or bodyweight exercises) as they are effective in managing blood sugar levels and aiding weight loss.
Dietary Changes
Another key factor in reversing type 2 diabetes is making significant changes to your diet. Adopt a diet that is low in processed foods, high in fibre, and rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats for improved blood sugar control. Some dietary approaches have been shown to be effective, including the Mediterranean diet, low-carb diets, and plant-based diets.
Weight Loss Program
Participating in a structured weight loss program in Singapore can be an effective way to reverse this disease. Programs often combine dietary changes, physical activity, and behavioural modifications so you can achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Medication
In certain instances, medication may be needed to manage blood sugar levels and support the weight loss efforts of people with type 2 diabetes. Metformin is a common prescription that aids in improving insulin sensitivity and lowering glucose production in your liver. If you are considering medication, it is best to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate medication regimen for you.
FAQs
How Much Weight Loss is Needed to Reverse Type 2 Diabetes?
As discussed, substantial weight loss is required. Experts say losing around 15 kg through healthy lifestyle habits, avoiding processed sugars, and getting about 150 minutes of exercise per week can lead to remission in some people with type 2 diabetes.
Research has also found that losing just 10% to 15% of your body weight within two years of diagnosis can be enough to achieve remission.
How Soon After Weight Loss can Type 2 Diabetes be Reversed?
There is no definitive time frame for the successful reversal of type 2 diabetes. Factors like age, duration of your diabetes, and the kilograms you lose influence how long it takes to achieve remission. Remission is more likely if weight loss is achieved soon after diagnosis, but it can also occur decades later.
How Does the Eureka Wellness Program Help Reverse Type 2 diabetes?
The Eureka Wellness program uses proprietary homoeopathy drops and a strict diet protocol to trigger the release of abnormal fat stores. You will achieve substantial weight loss. This greatly increases the chance of reversing type 2 diabetes by reducing insulin resistance and improving blood sugar control.
Can Young Adults and Children get Type 2 Diabetes?
Yes, young adults and children can get type 2 diabetes. Prevalence increases with age, with adolescent girls having a 60% higher prevalence rate than boys.
Is Reversal Permanent or Could Diabetes Return?
Reversal of diabetes through weight loss is possible, but it may not be permanent. You should strive to maintain a healthy weight, diet, and exercise routine to prevent its return. If you regain weight, your blood glucose levels also increase and may return to the diabetic range.
What Foods Help Prevent or Manage Type 2 Diabetes?
Here are some foods that may help prevent or manage type 2 diabetes:
- Healthy plant foods like tomatoes, peppers, and non-starchy veggies (leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower)
- Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and tuna
- Avocados to get healthy fats and fibre
- Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios
- Whole grains like quinoa, wild rice, and 100% whole wheat or legume-based pasta
- Dairy products like block cheese and unsweetened plain or Greek yoghurt
- Lean proteins like skinless, boneless chicken breast or strips, eggs
- Plant-based proteins like bean and bean products (chickpeas, beans, and lentils)
- Dressings like olive oil, chimichurri sauce, and vinegar pepper sauce
- Dips like avocado spread with garlic & homemade hummus
- Spices like herb infusions (thyme, rosemary)
- Condiments like honey mustard and mayo (olive oil or avocado oil mayo)
What Drinks Help Lower Blood Sugar?
Take note of the following drinks that can help lower blood glucose levels:
- Water
- Unsweetened teas
- Black coffee
- Kombucha
It’s important that you avoid sugary drinks, even alcoholic beverages.
Embarking on a Sustainable Lifestyle
Always remember to adopt lifelong changes to your diet and exercise habits. Even after achieving your desired weight loss that is substantial enough to reverse diabetes, it is crucial that you develop strategies to continue maintaining your weight. And lastly, you should regularly monitor your health by communicating your condition with your doctor.
How Eureka Wellness Helps You With Reversal
You may think that reversing type 2 diabetes is a great challenge. But you must know that it is an achievable goal that requires a comprehensive approach to weight loss and lifestyle change. Eureka Wellness offers a weight reduction program that is designed to help you achieve the weight loss you need, making it one of the most effective weight loss programs available.
Aside from our proprietary homoeopathy drops and diet protocol to lose weight fast, we also provide closely guided support, education and resources on healthy diet strategies to maintain the weight loss after the program.
Assess yourself and get the medical opinion of your doctor if you’re considering a weight loss program in Singapore. And when you are ready, we will also be ready for you. We are only a click away.
