Can Weight Loss Surgery Reverse My Type 2 Diabetes?

Many people are surprised that, on average, 75-80% of our type 2 diabetic patients are off their diabetic medications within two weeks after weight loss surgery. This can be a little nuanced based on the type of procedure but amazing, nonetheless. In fact, a long-term study of 400 diabetic patients who underwent weight loss surgery showed that after 6 years, 62% showed no signs of diabetes and show no signs of high blood pressure, cholesterol, or triglyceride measurements.

So Why Does This Happen?

The very simplified reason is that Type 2 diabetics do not metabolize carbohydrates well. With weight loss surgery, particularly the sleeve gastrectomy, the required diet is very low in calories and more importantly, carbohydrates. With a low carbohydrate intake, there is much greater control over insulin levels, which causes a more stable blood sugar level over time. A low carbohydrate level along with fewer calories together is an even better recipe for success.

Of course, there’s more to it than that, but rest assured the numbers are real and we see this each and every day with our many weight loss surgery patients. If you want to discuss your particular situation and whether weight loss surgery might be a good choice for you, reach out to us.