Type 2 diabetes affects over half a billion people globally, and while there is no cure, lifestyle modifications can help manage the condition. Recently, the National Health Service (NHS) in England conducted a year-long program that demonstrated how changing one’s diet to include soups and shakes can lead to remission in 32 percent of patients. These participants saw stable blood glucose levels without the need for medication, and on average, lost 15.9 kilograms (35 pounds) over 12 months.
Based on randomized controlled trials, the NHS program focuses on a low-energy yet nutritious diet in the form of soups and shakes. This approach has shown significant weight loss in 25 percent of patients, with an impressive 86 percent achieving long-term remission of diabetes. While the initial data is from a small group of 1,740 participants, the program is fully funded and currently accepts 10,000 eligible participants annually, with potential for further expansion.
During the trial period, participants replaced all regular meals with soups and shakes amounting to 800-900 calories per day for the first three months. They were then guided to gradually reintroduce foods over the following months. Remission was defined as blood glucose tests showing levels below a specific threshold on two occasions at least three months apart, with no glucose-lowering medications prescribed for at least three months prior to testing. Of the 710 participants meeting these criteria, 27 percent achieved remission by the end of the program.
Elizabeth Robertson, Director of Research at Diabetes UK, emphasized that the NHS program provides critical support to individuals with type 2 diabetes on their journey towards weight loss and remission. The program’s real-world effectiveness is supported by findings from the DiRECT21 trial, where weight loss enabled some individuals to remain in remission for up to five years.
James Thompson, a participant in the NHS program, shared his experience of overcoming type 2 diabetes through dietary changes. By adopting a diet rich in vegetables, salads, and high-fiber foods, coupled with increased physical activity like cycling, Thompson lost 54 percent of his body weight and achieved remission. He no longer requires medication to manage his blood sugar levels and reports feeling happier and more confident as a result of his transformation.
The success of the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Program highlights the profound impact that dietary interventions can have on managing and even reversing type 2 diabetes. By focusing on nutritious, low-energy meal replacements and providing ongoing support, individuals with diabetes can achieve significant weight loss and long-term remission, improving their overall quality of life.
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