“Prediabetes remission possible without dropping pounds, our new study finds”

A recent study shows that people with prediabetes can go into remission even if they do not lose a significant amount of weight. Improvements in insulin sensitivity and changes in fat distribution appear to be decisive factors. The research thus contradicts the widespread assumption that weight loss is essential to prevent the transition to type 2 diabetes. The results were published by the study authors Andreas L. Birkenfeld and Reiner Jumpertz-von Schwartzenberg on The Conversation platform.

The research team used data from the multicentre Prediabetes Lifestyle Intervention Study (PLIS) and investigated how often and under what conditions remission from prediabetes occurs. They found that many participants were able to achieve normal blood sugar levels on a permanent basis, even if their weight remained unchanged. Instead, factors such as improved pancreatic function, increased insulin sensitivity and changes in body fat distribution, particularly a reduction in visceral fat, were decisive. Metabolic adjustments in adipose tissue may also have played a role.

It is also noteworthy that the study shows how remission reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life – even if no weight loss has been achieved. This brings a new aspect to the fore: the prevention of diabetes should not be measured solely by the number on the scales.

The study was published in Nature Medicine. In their article in The Conversation, the authors emphasise that prevention strategies should be broader in scope in future. In addition to weight management, other approaches that specifically improve insulin action and metabolic health are also important. For those affected, this means that the chances of successful prevention remain even if significant weight loss is not achieved.

The study thus opens up new perspectives for clinical practice and research alike. Doctors and healthcare facilities could adapt their prevention programmes accordingly, while further research is needed to better understand the biological mechanisms behind remission without weight loss.

Go to Article on The Conversation

Original publication:

Sandforth, A., Arreola, E.V., Hanson, R.L. et al. Prevention of type 2 diabetes through prediabetes remission without weight loss. Nat Med (2025). doi:10.1038/s41591-025-03944-9