Losing weight is never easy, but it can be especially challenging when trying to manage type 2 diabetes. When tackling obesity and type 2 diabetes issues, many people are motivated by a somewhat dramatic initial weight loss.
Studies have shown that type 2 diabetes remission is closely linked to weight loss. Even a modest amount of weight loss can improve quality of life, blood glucose management, and reduce the need for medications. In many cases, weight loss can help accelerate the remission of type 2 diabetes.
What’s the science behind weight loss and type 2 diabetes?
The DiRECT Trial:
In research performed by Professor Roy Taylor in Newcastle, UK, weight loss has been shown to be an effective tool for managing type 2 diabetes.
Professor Taylor was a lead researcher of the DiRECT trial: A study investigating whether an intensive program for weight loss maintenance would help people with type 2 diabetes.
DiRECT trial participants followed a low-calorie (800 calories per day) liquid diet of processed soups and shakes and non-starchy vegetables for three to five months. They then slowly reintroduced solid foods over a further two months.
The study found that 24% of participants experienced weight loss of 15kg or more, and 46% with type 2 diabetes (who had been diagnosed within the past six years) were in remission after 12 months. Another year later, 70% of those participants were still in remission.
Professor Taylor believes that significant initial weight loss causes reversal of fat accumulation in the liver and pancreas, which allows the damaged cells in the insulin-producing pancreas to recover normal function. He believes remission can occur with a weight loss of 15 kg (if you’re an unhealthy weight) or 5-10% of body weight (if you’re not particularly overweight).
For the record, this 'significant weight loss' is defined as losing 1 kg or more per week, achieved by restricting calories and carbs to fast track weight loss.
The Look AHEAD Study:
The Look AHEAD study (2012) demonstrated that intensive lifestyle interventions led to greater weight loss and higher remission rates compared to standard diabetes education. Specifically, 11.5% of participants who implemented lifestyle interventions achieved remission at one year, and 7.3% at four years, compared to only 2% in the control group. The researchers emphasised that “weight management is increasingly taking centre stage in type 2 diabetes,” and calls for a shift in diabetes care towards interventions that promote significant weight loss.
Is long-term weight loss possible?
The DiRECT trial, led by Dr Taylor and Mike Lean, has provided compelling evidence on the long-term benefits of weight loss for type 2 diabetes remission. The five-year follow-up study (2023) revealed that nearly a quarter (23%) of participants who achieved remission at two years remained in remission at five years. Participants maintained an average weight loss of 8.9 kg over five years, significantly reducing their need for diabetes medications. Professor Taylor stated, “Maintaining substantial weight loss for longer periods is crucial for sustaining diabetes remission and improving overall health outcomes.” This study highlightss the importance of early and sustained healthy weight in successfully managing type 2 diabetes.
Comparing weight loss approaches
Most of the low-calorie diets used in research (including DiRECT) have involved a liquid diet. They use meal replacement shakes and soups in place of meals and can be hard to stick to for an extended period. In addition, eating a very low-calorie diet for a long time can cause the body to adapt, which prevents further weight loss.
Studies have shown that intermittent low-calorie programs are easier to maintain than a continuous calorie-restricted diet. Keeping to a low-calorie diet is tricky in the long term (mainly because of hunger). A short-term low-calorie eating plan can be an achievable compromise and a great way to fast track your weight loss goals.
After an initial rapid weight loss phase, it is typical to see a gentler weight loss (around 500 grams per week) until you reach your goal weight.
So, now what?
Achieving and maintaining weight loss is crucial for managing and potentially achieving type 2 diabetes remission. Studies like the DiRECT trial and Look AHEAD study have shown that significant weight loss can lead to improved blood glucose management and remission.
The Defeat Diabetes Low Carb Program supports sustainable weight loss and blood glucose management. Our members have seen impressive results, with 90-92% losing an average of 8-9 kg. With the right tools and guidance, you can achieve your health goals and improve your quality of life.
Ready to take control of your health? Join our program and discover how a low carb lifestyle can help you achieve lasting results and potentially send your type 2 diabetes into remission.
