Can Diet Help Put Type 2 Diabetes into Remission?
Being told you have type 2 diabetes can feel overwhelming. Many people believe it’s something they’ll have to manage forever—but research now shows that, for some, it’s possible to put type 2 diabetes into remission with the right support.
And one of the most powerful tools for achieving remission? Nutrition.
What does “diabetes remission” mean?
Remission doesn’t mean diabetes is completely “cured.” Instead, it means your blood sugar levels are sitting in the healthy range without the need for diabetes medication. With the right diet and lifestyle changes, many people are now finding this is within reach.
How dietitians help with type 2 diabetes remission
1. Weight management made realistic
Type 2 diabetes is strongly linked with carrying extra weight, especially around the waist. Even losing 5–10% of your body weight can make a big difference to insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. A dietitian helps you do this in a safe, sustainable way—no fad diets, no quick fixes, just real changes that last.
2. Finding the right nutrition approach for you
There’s no single “diabetes diet.” A dietitian works with you to find an eating style that suits your preferences, lifestyle, and goals. Approaches that have shown promising results for type 2 diabetes remission include:
Mediterranean-style diets: full of vegetables, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, and fish.
Low-carbohydrate diets: reducing refined carbs to avoid blood sugar spikes.
Very low-calorie diets (done with medical support): these can reduce fat around the liver and pancreas, helping the body use insulin more effectively.
The right approach is different for everyone—and that’s where personalised dietitian support matters.
3. Practical support for everyday life
Knowing what to eat is one thing—putting it into practice is another. Dietitians help with real-world strategies: meal planning, managing cravings, navigating eating out, and staying on track during busy or stressful times.
4. Supporting overall health
Managing diabetes isn’t just about blood sugar. The right nutrition can also lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol, and support heart health—all areas that people with type 2 diabetes need to keep an eye on.
What the research shows
The well-known DiRECT trial in the UK found that nearly half of participants with type 2 diabetes achieved remission within a year by following a structured dietary program. Many maintained remission long term when supported by dietitians and healthcare teams.
The takeaway
Type 2 diabetes doesn’t always have to be forever. With the right nutrition plan and ongoing support, remission is possible for many people.
If you’re living with type 2 diabetes and want to explore how diet and lifestyle could help you work towards remission, we’d love to support you.
👉 Book an appointment with our dietitians today and take the first step toward better health and long-term blood sugar control.
