In England, a radical diet of 800 calories, dubbed the “soup and shake” initiative, could be made available to a larger number of individuals affected by type 2 diabetes, following successful clinical trials. The NHS initiative, which has resulted in almost one-third of participants effectively eliminating their diabetes on a permanent basis, centres around providing low-calorie alternatives such as meal replacements in the form of soups, milkshakes and snack bars over a three-month period. This spurs rapid weight reductions, following which individuals receive guidance on how to reintegrate regular meals into their daily dietary regimen.
At present, the programme annually benefits 10,000 individuals, but given its impressive outcomes and life-altering advantages for those who partake, NHS decision-makers are deliberating on extending the programme’s offering. Those subscribing to the regimen reported losses of up to 17.4kg (about 38lbs), with almost a third of these recording type 2 diabetes remission, as per the study presented in the Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology publication.
Designed to be a one-year regimen, for the initial 12 weeks, patients embark on their weight loss trajectory with a low-calorie meal substitute, post which they are advised to incorporate healthy meals and are given customised assistance for maintaining their reduced weight levels. NHS England expressed optimism about the programme’s ability to assist thousands more individuals in their battle against type 2 diabetes.
The study evaluated information accumulated from 1,740 individuals who initiated the diet prior to January 2022. Of the total number, around 945 completed the full-year programme which demanded that their weight be recorded after a period of 12 months and that blood samples be given twice. Among these participants, 32% were able to send their conditioned into remission, characterised by average blood sugar levels over time, with the mean loss of weight standing at 15.9kg (about 35lbs). Some documented weight reductions as high as 17.4kg (38lbs). Dr Clare Hambling, the national clinical director for diabetes and obesity at NHS England, noted the “significant impact” of the type 2 diabetes path to remission programme on those participating.
The recent research findings have confirmed a significant number of participants undergoing the concerned programme have reportedly experienced transformative health improvements such as substantial weight reduction and type 2 diabetes reversal. Understanding that obesity poses a massive health risk in the UK and will present considerable, costly obstacles for health services around the world, the positive results from our programme indictate that obesity is indeed something that can be successfully addressed. We’re eager to explore potential growth of this programme in the foreseeable future,” says Dr Elizabeth Robertson, the head of research at Diabetes UK. Evidently proud, she mentions that the organisation has supported research for over ten years, enabling breakthroughs for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Since its inception in 2020, the programme has been attended by upwards of 25,000 individuals. As of May this year, NHS reported that 50,000 persons spread over five years across England will be eligible for the diet, confirming a two-fold increase in the capacity of the programme. The scheme has received £13 million funding this year, ensuring that a greater number of individuals reap its benefits.
Eligibility for the programme is determined by the following criteria: individuals must be between the ages of 18 to 65, diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within the last six years and a Body Mass Index (BMI) score over 27 and 25 if belonging to white or black, Asian or other minority communities respectively. General Practitioners (GPs) are responsible for referring suitable candidates for this scheme.