Type 2 diabetes affects over 500 million individuals globally, with no known cure. However, recent studies have shown that through significant lifestyle changes, including a drastic overhaul of one’s daily diet, it is possible for a large portion of patients to achieve remission. The NHS in England conducted a year-long diabetes program that resulted in 32 percent of participants achieving remission, with stable blood glucose levels even without medication. Participants who reached remission lost an average of 15.9 kilograms (35 pounds) over the 12-month program, highlighting the impact of diet in managing type 2 diabetes.
The NHS program, based on randomized controlled trials, focused on a low-energy, yet nutritious diet consisting of soups and shakes. This type of diet led to significant weight loss in a quarter of participants, with an impressive 86 percent achieving long-term remission of diabetes. While the program is currently limited to 10,000 participants annually, there are plans to expand its reach. The initial findings from the program, based on data from 1,740 participants enrolled between 2020 and 2022, highlight the effectiveness of a specialized diet in managing type 2 diabetes.
During the initial three months of the trial, participants replaced all their regular meals with soups and shakes amounting to 800 or 900 calories per day. Subsequently, they were guided to gradually reintroduce foods over the course of the year. Remission was defined as blood glucose levels falling below a specific threshold on two separate occasions at least three months apart. Additionally, participants had to be off glucose-lowering medications for three months prior to the first test. Of the 710 eligible participants, 27 percent achieved remission at the end of the year, demonstrating the significant impact of dietary changes on type 2 diabetes management.
Elizabeth Robertson, Director of Research at Diabetes UK, emphasized the importance of real-world evidence in supporting people with type 2 diabetes on their weight loss and remission journey. The success story of James Thompson, a participant in the NHS program, showcases the lasting effects of a complete dietary overhaul. Thompson’s journey of adapting to a new way of eating, incorporating more vegetables and high-fiber foods, and increasing physical activity led to a 54 percent reduction in body weight and remission of his diabetes. He no longer needs medication to control his blood sugar levels and reports feeling happier and more confident than ever before.
The impact of diet on type 2 diabetes remission cannot be overlooked. The success of programs like the one run by the NHS highlights the transformative power of healthy eating habits in managing and even reversing the effects of diabetes. With continued research and support, more individuals living with type 2 diabetes can benefit from lifestyle changes that prioritize nutrition and overall well-being.
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