20 Feb 5 Must-Read Books That Can Transform How You Reverse Type 2 Diabetes and Manage Weight

Anyone who knows me knows that I’m an avid reader — I’m rarely without a book in my hand! Over the years, I’ve discovered countless insights about health, weight management, and how to reverse type 2 diabetes through reading. My bookshelf is filled with titles by doctors, researchers, and experts who share practical advice backed by science.

Many of my patients and followers often ask: “What books do you recommend if I want to understand how to reverse type 2 diabetes naturally and sustainably?” So, here they are — my top five picks that have genuinely shaped how I practise and teach lifestyle medicine.

Each one offers something unique — from understanding blood sugar and insulin resistance, to reshaping habits that stick for life. Let’s dive in!

Why Is Reading About Type 2 Diabetes So Important?

When you’re trying to learn how to reverse type 2 diabetes, education is key. Understanding how your body works helps you make informed choices about diet, movement, stress and sleep. Reading books written by trusted medical professionals can help you connect the dots between what you eat, how you live, and how your body responds.

These books don’t just share theory — they empower you to take control of your health and apply practical strategies that work in real life.

1. What Can You Learn from “The Diabetes Code” by Dr Jason Fung?

Dr Jason Fung is a Canadian nephrologist who specialises in reversing type 2 diabetes through diet and fasting. In The Diabetes Code, he explains how insulin resistance — not sugar alone — is the root cause of the condition.

This book breaks down the science behind blood sugar spikes and offers a powerful message: type 2 diabetes can be reversed through lifestyle changes, particularly through controlled fasting and reducing refined carbohydrates.

It’s a must-read if you’re ready to understand the “why” behind blood sugar control, and how simple nutrition changes can have life-changing effects.

2. How Does “The Stress Solution” by Dr Rangan Chatterjee Help with Reversing Type 2 Diabetes?

Did you know that stress plays a huge role in blood sugar regulation? Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which in turn can make it harder to manage or reverse type 2 diabetes.

In The Stress Solution, Dr Rangan Chatterjee explores how stress impacts the body and provides simple, actionable steps to manage it — through sleep, mindfulness, breathing techniques and social connection.

This book reminds us that stress management isn’t just about mental health — it’s a core pillar of metabolic health too.

3. Why Is “Why We Eat (Too Much)” by Dr Andrew Jenkinson So Eye-Opening?

If you’ve ever wondered why losing weight — and keeping it off — feels so difficult, this book is for you. Dr Andrew Jenkinson, a bariatric surgeon, explains how our modern environment and food culture hijack our natural hunger signals.

He explores how hormones like leptin and ghrelin affect appetite and metabolism — both crucial for those looking to reverse type 2 diabetes and regain metabolic balance.

By understanding what drives overeating, you can start to work with your body rather than against it — making healthy eating feel effortless, not restrictive.

4. What Does “Why We Get Fat” by Gary Taubes Teach Us About Blood Sugar and Insulin?

Gary Taubes is a science journalist who has spent decades investigating nutrition research. In Why We Get Fat, he challenges the traditional “calories in, calories out” model and focuses on how carbohydrates and insulin drive fat storage and metabolic disease.

This book helps readers grasp why reducing carbs and improving insulin sensitivity are key strategies in learning how to reverse type 2 diabetes. It’s a fascinating deep dive into how modern diets disrupt our body’s natural balance — and how to fix it.

5. Can “Atomic Habits” by James Clear Help You Create Lasting Health Changes?

Reversing type 2 diabetes isn’t about one big change — it’s about small, consistent habits that compound over time. Atomic Habits by James Clear offers a clear blueprint for building better routines, one step at a time.

This book isn’t about diabetes specifically, but its principles are life-changing for anyone looking to transform their health. It teaches you how to set achievable goals, stay consistent, and make health habits automatic — essential tools for anyone managing blood sugar or weight long-term.

How Can These Books Help You Start Reversing Type 2 Diabetes?

Each of these books approaches how to reverse type 2 diabetes from a different angle — nutrition, mindset, stress, biology and behaviour. Together, they give you a holistic understanding of what it takes to regain balance, improve insulin sensitivity and feel your best again.

If you’re ready to start making real progress, I highly recommend watching my free 3-part video series that explains how to reset your metabolism and begin reversing type 2 diabetes naturally.

And don’t forget to download my free guide, Blood Sugar Guide, to learn the essential steps for balancing blood sugar through food and lifestyle.

What’s the Key Takeaway?

Knowledge really is power when it comes to your health. The more you understand your body and what influences your blood sugar, the more control you gain over your wellbeing.

These five books have changed how I think, practise and live — and I hope they inspire you too. Your journey to reverse type 2 diabetes starts with awareness, and continues with small daily steps that make a lasting difference.