Diabetes reversal is possible! Homeostasis, Neuroplasticity, and behavioral psychology play a key role in reversing Type 2 Diabetes.
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These are two of the most common reactions when we talk about reversing Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). But here’s the truth: a resounding YES – diabetes reversal is possible!
The Weight Loss Comparison
How, you ask? Let’s take a look at the broader context, like New Year’s resolutions. Every year, 42% of adults try to lose weight, and 45 million Americans spend over $33 billion annually on diets and weight loss programs. The big question is: Do those with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) even realize that reversing diabetes is a real possibility just like how weight loss is a possibility? Many don’t – but it absolutely is.
Why Sustainability is Key
The challenge with both weight loss and diabetes reversal is the same: sustainability. Diets, drugs, supplements, and exercise routines often fail because they rely on superpowers like discipline and self-control. If it took years to develop T2D, it's only reasonable that reversing it will take time, patience, and – here's the catch – a sustainable approach. The real question isn’t “Can I reverse it?” but “Can I sustain the ?????? long enough to reverse it?”
Reversing diabetes isn’t just about blood sugar levels, medications, or exercise. It's about adopting longer term perspective to understand what CAN I get done and what is that which can last.
Let’s be honest: relying on willpower and discipline is hard. Over time, our bodies crave the familiar, clinging to routines, and any drastic change feels like an uphill battle. That’s why the solution lies in something else rather than relying on sheer discipline.
Know Thyself – And Nothing More
My spiel on Diabetes Reversal starts with — In the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, the ancient Greeks inscribed the words: “Know thyself.”. In fact, I like to add two more words to that famous adage: “Know thyself… and nothing more.”. Understanding yourself is the first step toward meaningful sustainability.
Expanding on this theme - to grasp the concept of diabetes reversal, it’s essential to explore two key principles:
Homeostasis
Neuroplasticity.
Homeostasis and Neuroplasticity: The Keys to Reversal
Homeostasis is your body’s natural tendency to resist change. It’s why you may find you need to invoke special powers like self-control and discipline in the first place. To a large extent you can't even fight it - Cravings, thirst, hunger, Shiver, Sugar crashes etc. are all controlled by this function.
On the other hand, Neuroplasticity is your brain’s ability to rewire itself through repetition. When those beautiful dendrites form new connections or reenforce existing ones, turning new behaviors into automatic habits.
Without addressing these two principles, any discussion about diets, medications, or exercise plans is meaningless. Yet, the healthcare industry often focuses on external solutions without addressing the fundamentals of homeostasis and neuroplasticity.
Speed dialing
So, what does it take to hack homeostasis and activate neuroplasticity?
Engagement: First, understand your behavior and the psychology behind it. When you engage with your own body’s signals, you prevent it from fighting against you.
Data Insights: Collecting and interpreting data from your body – like continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) – helps you make informed decisions. This allows your mind to adjust to nutritional, exercise, and lifestyle based changes based on real-time insights.
Change Management Framework: Implement changes in a way that your primitive brain doesn’t rebel. This means small, manageable adjustments that gradually rewire your habits without overwhelming your system.
The Heald WA channel is a goldmine of support and information for those on their diabetes reversal journey.
The Role of Behavioral Psychology
and no, Willpower, Sacrifice or Strict Discipline won't get you there. The key lies in behavioral psychology. Using scientifically proven techniques, tools, and simple hacks, you can rewire your brain to crave healthier foods, engage in regular activity, and manage stress more effectively.
For example, creating a supportive community around you – through faith, family, and friends – provides encouragement. Coaches and healthcare providers can guide you with expert advice. Meanwhile, simple tools like meal plans and activity trackers help you stay on track.
Research has shown that community support plays a significant role in sustainable behavior change. In fact, a study published in The American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine found that individuals who participated in diabetes reversal programs with group support were more likely to maintain their results long-term than those who tried to go it alone.
Why This Works for Diabetes Reversal
Do I sound a bit out there, talking about the nervous system in the context of a disease rooted in glucose, insulin, beta cells, and beta receptors? Maybe – but I’ll explain more in future posts to avoid overwhelming you now.
As my mom and I journey through our own diabetes reversal experiences, we’ve learned that the nervous system plays a huge role. Whether it’s stress, sleep, or emotional eating, managing these behavioral factors is just as important as managing your blood sugar.
A Personal Journey with HEALDX
For now, here's the reality: Both my mom and I are on this journey of Diabetes Reversal. We’ve been working with the team at Heald and using the HEALDX program to reverse diabetes.
If your parents are in a similar situation or if you’re struggling with Type 2 Diabetes, I’d be more than happy to help.
—— Preetpal Singh
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