ATLANTA — New research suggests that combining a low-calorie diet with regular exercise could help younger adults with Type 2 diabetes achieve remission in as little as six months.

According to research from the European Association for the Study of Diabetes, more than half of adults ages 45 and younger who followed an intensive low-calorie diet and structured exercise program achieved diabetes remission within six months.

That compares to just 4% of participants who received usual care.

The findings are particularly significant for people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes at a younger age, as the condition can progress more aggressively than in those diagnosed later in life.

People with early-onset Type 2 diabetes often experience a faster decline in blood sugar control, develop complications earlier and face a shorter life expectancy.

Researchers found that dietary changes and structured exercise could help younger adults achieve remission without relying on weight-loss medications.

Diabetes remission occurs when blood sugar levels fall below the threshold used to diagnose the condition and remain there without glucose-lowering medications.

WSB Radio’s Ashley Simmons & Sabrina Cupit contributed to this story.