A study of 96 adults found that a combination of a low-energy diet and structured exercise led to diabetes remission in over half of participants.

A new study involving 96 adults aged 18 to 45 found that a structured program of low-energy dieting and exercise can reverse early onset type 2 diabetes. After 24 weeks, 54% of participants in the intervention group achieved remission, compared to 4% in a usual care group. The research was conducted across centers in England and Canada associated with the University of Leicester, McGill University, and the University of Alberta.

Study Methodology and Results

Participants in the study had early onset type 2 diabetes and obesity but were not using insulin therapy. The intervention group followed a strict diet of 800-900 calories per day, utilizing meal replacements for the first two weeks before transitioning to a mix of regular foods. The exercise component included supervised aerobic and resistance training twice a week, followed by independent sessions. Beyond achieving remission, the intervention group lost an average of 8.4 kilograms, significantly more than the 1.2 kilograms lost by the control group. Researchers noted that the weight loss was primarily fat and that the program helped preserve muscle mass. While most participants experienced mild side effects like dizziness or fatigue early on, these symptoms resolved over time.

Practical Application and Expert Guidance

Registered dietitians suggest that the findings offer a viable path for managing diabetes through lifestyle changes. Recommendations include reducing daily calorie intake by 500 to 750 calories and aiming for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. Experts emphasize that these goals should be measurable and tracked, and that individuals should consult with healthcare professionals to monitor blood sugar levels and adjust medications as health improves.