In this article, we explore the causes of type 2 diabetes, who is most at risk, and how you can prevent, or even reverse, this serious condition.
It is estimated that over 5 million people in the UK are currently living with diabetes. Around 8% of these cases are type 1 diabetes, but the vast majority, about 90%, are type 2 diabetes.
What’s more concerning is that an additional 13 million people in the UK are thought to be at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, making it a growing public health crisis.
What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a condition where blood sugar (glucose) levels become too high due to the body either not producing enough insulin, or the insulin it does produce not working properly. Insulin is the hormone that helps control blood sugar.
Many cases are linked to being overweight. This is because fat can build up in and around the pancreas, the organ responsible for producing insulin, reducing its function. However, while being overweight is a major risk factor, it’s not the only one. Family history, ethnicity, and age (typically over 25) also play a role.
Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition and not linked to weight, type 2 diabetes can develop gradually and may go unnoticed for years.
Why it is serious
High blood sugar over time can lead to serious complications such as:
• Heart attacks and strokes
• Kidney damage
• Eye problems
• Nerve damage and foot issues
Treatment includes regular health checks, lifestyle support, and possibly medication—including insulin. Blood sugar levels may also need to be monitored regularly.
The Good News: Remission is possible
With the right changes, type 2 diabetes can be managed effectively, and in many cases, even reversed.
Remission means your blood sugar returns to a normal level without the need for diabetes medication. This stops further damage and significantly improves long-term health.
People in remission often describe the change as life-transforming.
Recognising the symptoms
Many people with type 2 diabetes don’t feel unwell, which makes early diagnosis tricky. Here are some common symptoms:
• Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
• Feeling very thirsty all the time
• Persistent tiredness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Itching around the genitals or recurring thrush
• Slow-healing cuts or wounds
• Blurred vision
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your GP.
Lifestyle changes that can help
Diet
While there’s no strict ‘diabetes diet’, moderation is key. Focus on:
• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains and starchy foods (e.g. pasta and brown rice)
• Limiting sugar, salt, and fat—though not cutting them out completely
Eating earlier in the day and avoiding late-night meals can also help, as our body’s metabolism slows at night.
Tip: Make gradual changes, small weekly adjustments are easier to maintain long-term.
Exercise
Physical activity helps lower blood sugar by encouraging the body to use up stored glucose. Aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate activity each week.
Even a 30 minute walk each day can make a big difference.
Other great ways to stay active include:
• Climbing stairs
• Brisk walking
• Gardening or housework
• Anything that gets you slightly out of breath
Weight Management
>A healthy weight reduces your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. If you’re already living with diabetes, weight loss (if needed) can help improve insulin function and even bring on remission.
Get Checked Early
The good news is that lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight management can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 50%.
However, because it can go undiagnosed for years, regular health checks are essential, even if you don’t feel unwell.
At Edinburgh GP, we offer full health screenings to help detect type 2 diabetes and other conditions early, giving you the best chance to make changes and improve your health.
If you’re experiencing symptoms or simply want peace of mind, get in touch today to book an appointment.