People can reverse their type 2 diabetes by going on a strict 900-calorie-a-day liquid diet offered by the NHS. Sticking to it may be challenging though, results suggest. Dieters must endure a few months of consuming only shakes, soups and meal-replacement bars, before healthy solid foods can be gradually reintroduced.
Of many thousands invited, 940 completed the year-long programme, findings published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology journal reveal. A third of them shed lots of weight though - nearly two-and-a-half stone (16kg) - and put their diabetes into remission. The programme is being offered to people around England.
It is separate from the weight loss jab Wegovy that will be provided by some specialist NHS weight-loss management services. Diabetes UK said people should be supported to find the approach that is most appropriate for them – whether that involves medication, dietary changes or bariatric surgery. The shake and soup diet programme is fully funded by the NHS, so there is no cost for the individual.
They get bespoke diet and exercise advice sessions in person or online, as well as support from their GP. Experts say the opportunity can be truly life-changing for people - if they can stick at it. Unmanaged, diabetes can increase the risk of getting other serious health problems and damage the eyes and nerves.
Dr Clare Hambling, NHS national clinical director for diabetes and obesity, said: "Obesity is one of the biggest threats to health in the UK and .