Record Numbers Reverse Diabetes Through NHS Diet Programme
Health service leaders are celebrating remarkable success with the NHS soup and shakes diet, which has helped thousands of patients put their type 2 diabetes into remission. New figures reveal that a record-breaking 13,000 adults in England enrolled in the weight loss programme last year, nearly doubling the 6,401 participants recorded in 2023.
The revolutionary approach, developed by researchers at Newcastle University, involves consuming just 800 calories daily for up to four months. This intensive regimen typically results in weight loss between 22lb and 33lb (10kg to 15kg), which experts confirm is sufficient for most people to reverse their condition.
How the Programme Transforms Lives
Dr Clare Hambling, NHS National Clinical Director for Diabetes and Obesity, expressed enthusiasm about the programme's impact. 'It is fantastic to see that this proven NHS diet programme is transforming lives, helping thousands of people to lose weight, and for some people put their type 2 diabetes into remission,' she stated.
The programme, which costs approximately £1,100 per person, has now supported over 30,000 participants since its launch in 2020. Eligibility requires a type 2 diabetes diagnosis within the last six years and a body mass index exceeding 27, or over 25 for individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds.
Patients receive comprehensive support throughout their journey, including:
- Low-calorie, nutrient-complete soup and shake products for 12-20 weeks
- One-to-one guidance from nurses or dietitians
- Assistance reintroducing healthy foods and maintaining weight loss
- Medication management for diabetes and blood pressure
Real Patient Success Stories
Richard Seal, a 62-year-old regional chief pharmacist for the NHS from the Midlands, described his experience as 'amazing' after shedding an impressive 63lbs (29kg) in just three months. 'After just three months on the programme, my heart rate, blood pressure readings, cholesterol, and glucose levels were all back to normal,' he reported.
Mr Seal benefited from weekly finger prick tests to monitor blood sugar levels and received support from a lifestyle coach who helped him transform his relationship with food. He lost over four and a half stone and eight inches from his waist during the programme and has successfully maintained his weight since.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the programme's success, research highlights significant challenges with adherence. A major analysis published in the Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology journal revealed that only 12% of participants managed to stick with the demanding diet for a full year.
The study, which evaluated the programme's effectiveness outside clinical trials, found that while a third of type 2 diabetes patients who completed the year-long diet achieved remission, this represents just 3% of all who initially attempted the regimen.
Medical professionals note that the extreme calorie restrictions may not suit all patients. Those using insulin may experience dangerous blood sugar drops, while the programme is also unsuitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children and teenagers, and individuals with eating disorders.
With nearly 4.3 million people living with diabetes in the UK during 2021/22, and an estimated 850,000 unaware of their condition, the NHS continues to expand innovative approaches to combat this growing health crisis. The soup and shakes diet represents a promising weapon in the fight against type 2 diabetes, offering hope to thousands struggling with the condition.
