Low-Energy Diet Combined With Exercise Reverses Type 2 Diabetes in More Than Half of Study Participants

A new study published in October 2026 found that a low-energy diet combined with a structured exercise program reversed type 2 diabetes in more than half of participants. The findings were reported by Healthline on October 1, 2026.

Researchers tracked participants who followed a calorie-restricted diet alongside a supervised exercise regimen. More than 50 percent of those in the program achieved remission, meaning their blood sugar levels returned to normal ranges without the use of diabetes medication.

Type 2 diabetes affects more than 37 million Americans and is a leading cause of heart disease, kidney failure, and blindness. The condition is closely linked to obesity and physical inactivity, and it has historically been managed with medication rather than reversed through lifestyle changes alone.

The study adds to a growing body of research suggesting that aggressive lifestyle intervention can produce remission in people with early-stage or moderate type 2 diabetes. Earlier research, including the DiRECT trial in the United Kingdom, showed similar results using very low-calorie diets.

Researchers cautioned that the approach requires significant commitment and medical supervision. The low-energy diet used in the study was more restrictive than typical dietary advice, and the exercise program was structured and progressive.

Endocrinologists not involved in the study said the results are encouraging but noted that remission rates vary depending on how long a person has had diabetes and how well their pancreatic function has been preserved.

The American Diabetes Association has increasingly recognized lifestyle intervention as a viable path to remission, particularly for people diagnosed within the past six years.