Diabetes is a disease that occurs when blood glucose (blood sugar) is too high. The hormone insulin moves sugar from the blood into our cells to be stored or used for energy. With diabetes, the body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t effectively use the insulin it does make. Untreated high blood sugar from diabetes can damage the nerves, eyes, kidneys, and other organs.

According to CDC’s statistical data, 11% of US population have diabetes. Not only human beings, but cats and dogs can also have diabetes. Although diabetes can’t be cured, it can go into remission. When diabetes is in remission, the body maintains a normal glucose level without insulin being taken.

We just had a diabetes remission story of one of our cats. Oreo, at her age of 13, suddenly showed increased urination, Excessive thirst, increased appetite and unexpected weight loss. She was diagnosed with diabetes. We immediately treated her with insulin injection. Since the vet told us many cats have good chance to have diabetes remission at the early treatment stage, we tested her blood sugar and injected insulin, then feed her twice a day. High blood sugar is bad condition. However, excessive low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause humans or animals death. Testing blood sugar is critical before injection of insulin.

Although I am a laboratory scientist, I never had drawn cat’s blood from ear and give injection before. I started practicing from injection on an orange. After accidentally putting syringe needle into my fingers twice, I finally managed to give cat shot. After a few weeks’ treatment, Oreo’s blood sugar has become normal! She also has been much more active and her skin and hair look shining again. Of course, we still have to monitor her blood sugar routinely based, and she will eat a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet to stabilize blood sugar.

The key factors in achieving diabetes remission are early and quick of insulin therapy post-diagnosis and strict adherence to a low carbohydrate diet.

Human diabetes can go to remission too, although not such a big chance as cats. The estimate states that 5% of type II diabetes patients can have remission. Remission is most likely in the early stage of diabetes. The keys to keeping high blood sugar down are weight control, exercise, and a diabetes-healthy diet.

The healthy diets support healthy weight and blood sugar level. They include: Nonstarchy vegetables and high-fiber fruits; Lean sources of protein, such as boneless, skinless chicken, turkey, and fatty fish, like salmon; Healthy fats, such as nuts and avocado (in moderation); Whole grains; Nonfat or lowfat dairy, like milk and plain yogurt.