Can you get rid of diabetes?
You can get rid of diabetes in some cases, specifically prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes. This is possible through blood glucose control using medication if needed, healthy eating, weight loss, and regular exercise, which improve insulin sensitivity and can lead to remission, though Type 1 and gestational diabetes are not reversible.
Key takeaways
Prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes are reversible, while Type 1 and gestational diabetes can only be managed, not reversed.
Losing 5%–7% of body weight significantly reduced diabetes risk in the NIH-funded Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP).
An A1C below 5.7% is normal, 5.7%–6.4% indicates prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher confirms diabetes.
Diabetes types and reversibility comparison |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| Type of diabetes | Cause | Can it be reversed? | Primary management |
| Prediabetes | Elevated blood glucose | Yes | Weight loss, diet, exercise |
| Type 2 diabetes | Insulin resistance | Yes (remission possible) | Lifestyle changes, medication |
| Type 1 diabetes | Autoimmune insulin loss | No | Lifelong insulin |
| Gestational diabetes | Pregnancy-related insulin resistance | No (usually resolves postpartum) | Diet, monitoring, insulin if needed |
Expert perspective
Clinical perspective: Ghada Elshimy, MD, Endocrinologist “There’s no difference between one diet or another. The most important thing is to stick with one diet… eat more vegetables, more protein, and fewer carbohydrates.”
Expert bio: Dr. Elshimy is an endocrinologist with Augusta University Health specializing in diabetes management
Want to learn more about getting rid of diabetes? Read our full analysis: Can you reverse diabetes?
Prescription resources
Several medications support blood sugar control and weight loss for Type 2 diabetes, including metformin, GLP-1 agonists (such as Ozempic, Trulicity, and Victoza), and SGLT-2 inhibitors (such as Jardiance and Farxiga). If you’re prescribed these medications and managing ongoing costs, SingleCare can help you compare local pharmacy prices and find savings.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your endocrinologist or healthcare provider before making changes to your medication regimen.
Sources
Diabetes Prevention Program, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (2021)
Reversal of type 2 diabetes: normalisation of beta cell function in association with decreased pancreas and liver triacylglycerol, Diabetologia (2011)
About diabetes self-management education and support, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2024)
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