What is remission and why does it matter?

Type 2 diabetes remission is when your blood sugar levels return to a safe, non-diabetes level long-term, without the need for glucose-lowering medication. It stops diabetes in its tracks and boosts your chances of a healthy future.

In clinical terms, remission is when your HbA1c — a measure of blood glucose level — remains below 48mmol/mol or 6.5% for at least three months, without diabetes medication.

This 3 minute animation from Diabetes UK explains more about remission.

Why does remission matter?

Diabetes is a serious health condition. It  puts you at increased risk of developing heart disease, stroke and other complications including:

• Eye problems 
• Diabetes foot problems are serious and can lead to amputation if untreated.
• Kidney problems 
• Nerve damage 

By bringing your blood sugars into a non-diabetes range long-term, the symptoms of diabetes and any new damage it can do to your body are on pause. This doesn't mean your diabetes has gone away forever as your blood sugar levels can rise again. And you still need to make sure you attend regular check-ups and get the support you need to treat or manage any existing diabetes-related complications. But it does mean that you are more likely to feel better and see improvements in your health long-term.

For some people, putting their type 2 diabetes into remission can help lower their blood pressure, cholesterol and body weight. All of which can have a huge impact on your everyday health and wellbeing, and your long-term health.  Everyday benefits include:

• taking fewer medications 
• having more energy and sleeping better. 
• feeling like you have more control over your body. 

The good news is that many people can achieve remission of their diabetes.

The strongest evidence we have suggests that diabetes is mainly put into remission by losing weight.

If you live with obesity or overweight, you are more likely to put your diabetes into remission if you lose a substantial amount of weight – 15kg (or 2 stone 5lbs) – safely and as quickly as possible following your diagnosis. 

Researchers think the reason for this is that losing weight removes extra fat around your liver and pancreas. This extra fat can make it difficult for these organs to process insulin effectively, leading to type 2 diabetes. Reducing the fat levels improves the way these organs manage insulin.

How long does remission last?

Remission needs to be maintained. In many cases, blood sugar levels can rise again. It is  important to continue your diabetes appointments  and a healthy diet and exercise regime while you are in remission.