Type 2 Diabetes Specialist
Jonas Leibowitz, MD
Endocrinologist located in Yonkers, NY
Type II diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, accounting for about 95% of adult diabetes cases. When you have type II diabetes, you may go through countless medications and dosages before finding just the right treatment. Jonas Leibowitz, MD understands how frustrating this can be. As a leading internist and endocrinologist in Yonkers, New York, he specializes in and has extensive training with prescription medications. When you schedule your appointment online, or call the office of Jonas Leibowitz, you start a path to better managing your type II diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes Q & A
Can losing weight reverse type II diabetes?
Often, yes. When you have type II diabetes, your pancreas makes insulin (unlike type I diabetes). But the more overweight you become, the less your body is able to use the insulin. Your system actually becomes resistant to it, ultimately resulting in constant high blood sugar levels. Even though your blood sugar is always high, you might still feel tired and fatigued because cells can’t get the fuel they need.
Research shows that even a modest drop of about 10% of your body weight, makes your body more sensitive to insulin. This means insulin starts working better. The more weight you lose to get closer to your target weight, insulin sensitivity continues to improve. Over time, your blood sugar levels stabilize into the normal range and you may no longer need your diabetes medications.
Will I need medication to manage type II diabetes?
Possibly. Before Dr. Leibowitz prescribes medications for diabetes management, he counsels you on lifestyle changes. Because he knows ultimately being at a healthy weight drastically decreases your risk of type II diabetes, generally dropping some pounds is the first step.
Dr. Leibowitz creates a custom weight loss plan for you, so you can get started on your new journey. Many weight loss plans consist of:
- Exercise schedules
- Nutrition counseling
- Regular weigh-ins and checkups
- Meal prepping guidance
If and when you need diabetes medication, Dr. Leibowitz finds the ideal option for you and adjusts your dosages as needed. In some cases, men and women with type II diabetes may need regular insulin injections and daily blood glucose monitoring.
Why is type II diabetes a health concern?
Type II diabetes was formerly nicknamed “adult-onset diabetes” since you don’t typically develop the condition until your adult years. By this time, it’s likely that years of weight fluctuations, inactivity, and poor diet choices have contributed to obesity and your increased risk of type II diabetes. All of those factors combined can further put you at risk for:
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Atherosclerosis
- Neuropathy (nerve damage)
- Kidney disease
- Vision loss