Leading Endocrinologist and Founder of the Queensland Specialist Weight Loss Centre, Dr Viral Chikani MBBS, FRACP, PhD (UQ) delves into what the science says about reversing type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes has long been considered a chronic, progressive disease. However, emerging scientific evidence now shows that type 2 diabetes can be reversed in many individuals, particularly through substantial and sustained weight loss.
One of the most compelling lines of evidence comes from the field of metabolic (bariatric) surgery. Numerous studies have shown that surgical procedures such as gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy can lead to remission of type 2 diabetes in a significant proportion of patients, sometimes within weeks of surgery.
For example:
- Studies report remission rates of 60–80% in patients undergoing metabolic surgery.
- Improvements in blood sugar control often occur rapidly, due to hormonal and metabolic changes.
These findings highlight a powerful truth: reducing excess fat in the liver and pancreas can restore insulin sensitivity and normalise blood glucose and this can be achieved not only through surgery but also through structured weight loss interventions.
The DiRECT Trial: A Non-Surgical Breakthrough
The UK’s landmark DiRECT trial (Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial) demonstrated that type 2 diabetes can also be reversed through non-surgical means, specifically using a very low-calorie diet (VLCD). Published in The Lancet, the study found:
- 46% of participants achieved diabetes remission at 12 months
- Those who lost 15 kg or more had remission rates as high as 86% (around 9 out of 10 people)
- Many participants-maintained remission at 2 years
This shows that meaningful weight loss, even without surgery, can lead to diabetes remission, particularly when implemented early after diagnosis.
Other Effective Approaches
At Queensland Specialist Weight Loss Centre (QSWLC), we offer a range of evidence-based, non-surgical strategies to help individuals achieve significant weight loss and improve or reverse type 2 diabetes:
Supervised Weight Loss Programs
Our tailored weight loss programs combine personalised dietary guidance, behavioural strategies, medical support, and physical activity planning — delivered by our expert multidisciplinary team. These programs are designed to promote sustainable, long-term weight loss that can restore metabolic health and reduce the need for medications.
Very Low-Calorie Diets (VLCDs)
VLCDs are scientifically supported meal replacement programs that promote rapid and safe weight loss.In clinical trials like DiRECT, VLCDs have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and lead to diabetes remission — often within just a few weeks of starting the program.
How QSWLC Can Help
Our multidisciplinary team at QSWLC includes:
- An endocrinologist
- Accredited dietitian and nutritionist
- Psychologist
- Exercise physiologist
We work collaboratively to design personalised care plans focused on weight loss, blood sugar control, and long-term lifestyle change — all delivered in a supportive, stigma-free environment.
Our goal at QSWLC is to help people achieve similar health outcomes through non-surgical pathways, empowering them to take control of their health and potentially reverse type 2 diabetes.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’ve been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, remission may be possible, and we’re here to help. Contact us today on (07) 3544 6446 to learn how we can support your journey to better health.
About Dr Chikani
Dr Viral Chikani MBBS, FRACP, PhD (UQ) is one of Queensland’s leading Endocrinologist and Obesity Physicians with a special interest in metabolic health, and weight management. He is also a senior lecturer at University of Queensland and active researcher in endocrinology and energy metabolism.
