Low calorie diets can contribute to diabetes remission

Lujain Alhassan

Nutritionist / Nutrition Coordinator, exante

According to recent research, following a low calorie diet through meal replacements can contribute to sending type 2 diabetes into remission.

The ‘Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial’ (DiRECT study) has been investigating the impact of low-calorie diets on those living with type 2 diabetes. The latest findings have shown that over a third of people who took part are in remission two years after. Early results from another recent trial also show that remission may be possible for people with a BMI of 27 or less.

Potential benefits of low-calorie diets

Low calorie diets are designed to result in significant weight loss. This is because they help to reduce the levels of visceral fat (fat surrounding the liver, pancreas and other organs), which may improve pancreatic function and the production of insulin. Excessive amounts of visceral fat are associated with insulin resistance, so following a low-calorie diet may also prevent diabetes.

exante offer simple and convenient diet plans designed to help people reach their goals quickly, safely and effectively. With 27 vitamins and minerals in each meal replacement, the range is a perfect, nutritious option for weight loss, maintenance or even just a convenient meal on-the-go.

The wide range of bars, shakes, meals and even soups contain a third of our nutrient reference values and are packed with protein and fibre.

Since finding the plan, I’ve lost over 10 stone and now weigh 11 stone 7lbs.

Managing weight loss and diabetes

Christine explains how the 800 plan helped her lose weight: “Before I started exante, I was around 21 stone 13 lbs. I suffered with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure which needed to be managed with a lot of medication.

“I knew I had lots of weight to lose before my diabetes worsened, I opted for the 800-calorie plan; with this plan I used three meal replacement products a day alongside a 200 calorie healthy meal or snack.

“Since finding the plan, I’ve lost over 10 stone and now weigh 11 stone 7lbs. I can’t describe how much of an impact it has had on my life; I’m so much more confident and happier in myself and I’m off all my medication. Better yet, I managed to put my type 2 diabetes into remission, something I never imagined could happen.”