Stomach operation diabetes cure?

Main Category: Diabetes
Article Date: 28 Jan 2004 - 0:00 PDT

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A story in today's Daily Mail (UK newspaper) has suggested that a stomach operation designed to help the seriously obese to lose weight could offer hope of a cure for Type 2 diabetes.

A man who was previously on a very high amount of insulin has not required any injections since the operation took place. Some other people who have had the operation at a hospital in Liverpool (UK) have also experienced the same improvement in their diabetes control.

"It is difficult to know exactly what is happening in these cases. One possible explanation is that the intake of food has been so drastically reduced that the small amount of insulin still produced by these people is able to cope in the short term.

'It could also be that by diverting food away from particular parts of the intestine it may change the way the body's hormones work. Hopefully more research will be conducted to establish exactly what is happening. We will be following this story very carefully to see whether there is a real long-term benefit." said Amanda Vezey, Care Advisor at Diabetes UK.

With Type 2 diabetes some insulin is still produced but it is either not enough or is not working effectively. Often reduced calorie intake and resultant weight loss can lead to a significant improvement in blood glucose control.

For the moment people with Type 2 diabetes should focus on the importance of keeping active and following a healthy balanced diet. Those who are having difficulties managing their weight should discuss further treatment options with their doctor, nurse or dietitian.