A report today from the BBC http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-42154666 states that doctors in Newcastle and Glasgow have reversed nearly half of type 2 diabetics! This is incredible. Because those of us who have type 2 know how stubborn and almost impossible to manage never mind reverse.
But how was it reversed in this wonderful 'watershed' moment described by doctors?
Well simply by cutting a patient's daily calorie intake. Not really that simple. The daily calorie intake for these trial patients was 800 calories! Four fluid drinks of 200 calories a day! Ok, they are balanced with the right amount of minerals - but what about coffee, would I need to give that up? Yes!
I am sure it is a good idea - for many. Afterall, the amount of weight lost will be huge after being on it for five months. But don't forget, it is a very low calorie diet. Diabetes UK has said this has the potential to help millions of patients (BBC).
So here are my highs and lows:
Highs
- Drop all that medication 👍
- Weight loss 👍
- Longer live expectancy - a double thumbs up - 👍👍
- 86% of patients who lost 15kg put their diabetes into remission (Lancet medical journal cited on BBC) 👍
Lows
- A 800 calorie diet made up of 4 x 200 calorie drinks is draconian 👎
- I would need my coffee - this is not an option for me. 👎
- Five months is a long time to keep it up. 👎
- I think it is ok if you don't have a lot of commitments and can spend time on it. 👎
- The diabetes can return if you put the weight back on.👎
In conclusion, I think it is exciting news. For many diabetics it is the breakthrough they have been waiting for. For me, I have other health issues which may make this path impossible. Find out more on diabetes UK https://www.diabetes.org.uk
Remember, I would like to hear from other diabetics about this.
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