Professor Roy Taylor, Emeritus Professor of Medicine at Newcastle University, argues that Type 2 diabetes is not necessarily a chronic, progressive disease. He developed the Twin Cycle Hypothesis, which suggests that the condition can be reversed through significant weight loss.
Taylor challenges the use of BMI as a standard metric, noting it is misleading for individuals. Instead, he emphasizes waist circumference as a more relevant measure to determine an individual's 'Personal Fat Threshold.' Reducing waist size can switch off diabetes.
The ReTUNE study demonstrated that even people with normal BMI who develop Type 2 diabetes can achieve remission by losing 10-15 kilograms. Taylor notes that success depends on the duration of the disease and individual genetics, with some achieving remission after 20 years.
Regarding GLP-1 medicines, Taylor views them as tools that reduce appetite and body fat, but he cautions that patients may not learn essential dietary regulation without structured support. He warns that weight often returns after stopping medication.
Taylor is concerned about the rising rates of Type 2 diabetes in young people, linking it to a toxic food environment and calling for stronger legislation on food advertising and sugar content.
For clinicians, Taylor recommends measuring waist circumference and using the NHS England remission program, along with his toolkit and book 'Life Without Diabetes' for guidance.