Blood Sugar Control May Be More Critical Than Weight Loss in Preventing Diabetes, New Research Shows

Recent research emphasizes the importance of managing blood sugar levels over weight loss alone for reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A comprehensive analysis from a large study conducted in Tübingen reveals that individuals who achieve normalized blood glucose levels through lifestyle modifications—even without losing weight—can lower their risk of progressing to diabetes by up to 71%. This finding challenges the traditional focus on weight reduction as the sole strategy for diabetes prevention.

The study involved over 1,100 participants with prediabetes, a condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels that are not yet classified as diabetes. Remarkably, about 22% of those who did not lose weight or even gained weight still managed to restore normal blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes such as improved diet and increased physical activity. Long-term follow-up over nine years showed that these individuals were significantly less likely to develop type 2 diabetes, highlighting that blood sugar normalization itself is a crucial target.

The research also examined fat distribution, particularly visceral fat—the fat stored around internal organs—which is known to promote inflammation and interfere with hormone regulation. Participants whose blood sugar levels returned to normal had lower amounts of visceral fat, underlining its role in diabetes risk.

According to Prof. Dr. Andreas Birkenfeld, study leader and expert at Helmholtz Munich, "Restoring normal fasting blood sugar is more important than focusing solely on weight. Exercise and balanced diets positively influence blood sugar levels regardless of weight changes."

Expert insights suggest that future guidelines should incorporate blood glucose targets alongside weight management and consider fat distribution patterns. This approach could broaden strategies for preventing type 2 diabetes, emphasizing the importance of glycemic control even in the absence of weight loss.

The study underscores that achieving and maintaining normal blood sugar levels through lifestyle modifications holds significant promise for prediabetes management and diabetes prevention, potentially shifting current preventative strategies towards a more comprehensive focus on blood glucose regulation.