On November 8th’s episode of the Biggest Loser, Ramon Medeiros received some very encouraging news. At the beginning of the season he was told that he was a diabetic and he was completely unaware. Look ahead to week eight at the Biggest Loser Ranch when he was told by Dr. H that not only had he reversed his diabetes but also that his high blood pressure was gone. Like Ramon, you can reverse your diabetes – and here’s how.
Before we talk about the how we need to talk about the why. Why did you develop type 2 diabetes? There are numerous factors that can bring in on, including genetics, eating an unhealthy diet, and leading a sedentary lifestyle, but the biggest reason people develop type 2 diabetes is because they become overweight or obese. As people’s weight increases their pancreas cannot keep up with the insulin production to reduce the body’s blood sugar. Your body is also less sensitive to the insulin it is still producing which is known as insulin resistance. Type 1 diabetics’ pancreases do not produce insulin so unfortunately reversing diabetes in these patients is not yet possible.
As Ramon demonstrated, the best way to reverse type 2 diabetes is through weight loss, good nutrition and exercise. He has committed to the process with hard work and dedication. Exercise has an almost 48 hour effect on blood sugar levels. Thirty minutes of exercise a day most days of the week is the current recommendation with a combination of cardio and strength training with weights or Pilates or yoga. It’s important to discuss your weight loss program with a doctor to see if her or she feels it is a good fit for you. Be realistic as you will not see the same resultants as a Biggest Loser contestant. Losing two to three pounds per week is not only respectable, it’s what’s considered safe. Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats.
If successful in your weight loss, you are reducing your risk of so many complications like nerve pain, heart attack and stroke. You will also end up reducing your medical expenses drastically with less appointments, diabetic supplies like glucometers and medication. Once you are no longer considered a diabetic, it doesn’t mean it can’t come back. Return to a couch potato lifestyle and eating unhealthy and the chance of it returning goes up dramatically. These changes need to be committed to for life.