A new trial has started aimed at helping people with type 2 diabetes – and it could change their lives.
Kent and Medway is one of 11 new areas in the UK to offer the NHS Low Calorie Diet Programme to patients aged between 18 and 64, diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the last six years as well as other selective criteria.
The programme diet includes soups and shakes – four portions a day which equates to 800 calories. Earlier trials suggest a patient could lose between 12-15 kilos (1.8 – 2.3 stone) in 12 weeks.
The remaining 40 weeks incorporates intervention such as food education, meal planning and exercise – 46 per cent of the patients who took part in earlier trials have put their type 2 diabetes into remission thanks to this plan.
Snodland Medical Practice GP Dr Becky Prince, Clinical Lead, Diabetes Kent and Medway, said:
“The programme is a real game-changer for our patients living with Type 2 diabetes. With 46 per cent of patients gaining remission from diabetes with this low-calorie diet – it’s astounding. It takes commitment and we need to make sure that each patient is eligible but I'm very excited to work together with patients on their low-calorie diet journey.”