Reversing type 2 diabetes by dieting: does this work?

Bouma, Sophie (2020) Reversing type 2 diabetes by dieting: does this work? Bachelor's Thesis, Biology.

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Abstract

Until recently, type 2 diabetes (T2DM) was thought to be a long-life disease, with current treatment mostly focussing on improving its symptoms by lowering blood glucose levels instead of reversing it. The idea of this disease being irreversible came from the progressive nature of β-cell dysfunction, which, together with insulin resistance, is seen to be the cause of the uncontrollable blood glucose levels. These hallmarks of T2DM are a result of fat accumulation in the liver and pancreas due to prolonged excessive caloric intake. Current guidelines promote lifestyle changes, prescribing regular exercise and a healthier diet. However, only minimal support is given, and a substantial amount of weight loss is not the primary goal. Moreover, these guidelines mainly rely on anti-glycaemic drugs, such as metformin. Several studies, with more on their way, have changed the view on the incurability of T2DM. They show that losing substantial amounts of weight by following a low-calorie diet may have positive effects on the course of the disease and might even lead to remission. These studies helped to unravel the pathophysiology of the development and remission of T2DM. This research can potentially change the current guidelines that are used after diagnosis by shifting the focus toward weight loss programs. In contrast to general belief, individuals diagnosed with T2DM could be informed that they can go into remission if they are motivated enough to lose substantial amounts of weigh

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis)
Supervisor name:	Kruit, J.K.
Degree programme:	Biology
Thesis type:	Bachelor's Thesis
Language:	English
Date Deposited:	20 May 2020 09:01
Last Modified:	20 May 2020 09:01
URI:	https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/21909

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