### How Weight Loss Affects Type 2 Diabetes Remission and Relapse Weight loss can significantly impact the remission of type 2 diabetes. When people lose weight, the fat stored in the liver and pancreas decreases. This reduction in fat helps improve insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels. Improved insulin sensitivity can lead to the remission of type 2 diabetes, meaning that blood sugar levels return to normal without the need for medication. However, if people regain the weight they lost, the fat stores in the liver and pancreas can increase again. This can reduce insulin sensitivity and cause blood sugar levels to rise, leading to a relapse of diabetes. Therefore, maintaining weight loss is essential for sustaining diabetes remission. A study published in December 2019 in *Cell Metabolism* examined 57 overweight and obese individuals with type 2 diabetes. The participants followed a low-calorie diet for three to six months, aiming to lose at least 15 kilograms (about 33 pounds). After five months, 28 participants achieved the targeted weight loss and diabetes remission. However, by the end of two years, 13 of them had relapsed. Those who maintained remission had lost more weight initially and kept more weight off compared to those who relapsed. The study highlights the importance of sustained weight loss for long-term diabetes remission. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent type 2 diabetes and manage blood sugar levels in those who have the condition. Physical activity is particularly important as it helps keep muscles insulin sensitive and prevents excess carbohydrates from being converted into fat and stored in the liver and pancreas. In summary, weight loss can lead to the remission of type 2 diabetes by reducing fat in the liver and pancreas and improving insulin sensitivity. However, regaining weight can reverse these benefits and cause diabetes to return. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for long-term diabetes management.