People suffering from type 2 diabetes can potentially reverse their condition through a strict 900-calorie-a-day liquid diet provided by the NHS, recent findings suggest. This regimen involves consuming only shakes, soups, and meal-replacement bars for several months before gradually reintroducing healthy solid foods.
Although challenging, the program has shown promising results. A study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology journal revealed that out of thousands invited, 940 individuals completed the year-long program. Remarkably, one-third of participants lost nearly two-and-a-half stone (16 kg) and achieved diabetes remission.
This innovative program is available across England and is distinct from the weight loss jab Wegovy, which will be offered by some specialized NHS weight-loss management services. Diabetes UK emphasizes the importance of supporting individuals in finding the most suitable approach for managing their diabetes, whether through medication, dietary changes, or bariatric surgery.
Fully funded by the NHS, the shake and soup diet program incurs no cost to participants. It includes personalized diet and exercise guidance through in-person or online sessions, along with support from their GP. Experts highlight the life-changing potential of this opportunity for those who can adhere to the program.
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to severe health complications, including damage to the eyes and nerves. Dr. Clare Hambling, NHS national clinical director for diabetes and obesity, stated: “Obesity is one of the biggest threats to health in the UK and will be one of the biggest and most costly challenges for health systems globally. The encouraging outcomes from our program show that obesity can be tackled head-on.”
Eligibility criteria for the program include being between 18 and 65 years old, having been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within the past six years, and possessing a body mass index (BMI) over 27 kg/m² (for white ethnic groups) or over 25 kg/m² (for black, Asian, and other ethnic groups). It is crucial to follow a very low-calorie diet only if recommended by a doctor.
Marie Laing, a participant from Frome in Somerset, shared her success story with BBC News. After completing the 12-month program, she lost over three stone and experienced significant improvements in her health and lifestyle. “The GP suggested I try this after I’d tried other things myself and hadn’t succeeded, and I’m really grateful,” she said. “This remission program isn’t a diet – it’s a lifestyle change.”
Juliet, another participant, echoed similar sentiments. “During the total diet replacement phase, I expected to feel hungry but I didn’t, and the products actually kept me going. I enjoyed most of them too – although my particular favorites were the red Thai soup and shepherd’s pie.”
Dr. Nerys Astbury, associate professor of diet and obesity at the University of Oxford, noted, “We don’t know how long the remission will last or how achieving remission can affect the risk of developing diabetes in the future. But we do know that losing weight has huge health benefits in all groups, particularly people living with type 2 diabetes.”
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