Metabolic and Cardiovascular Effects of Very-Low-Calorie Diet Therapy in Obese Patients with Type 2 diabetes in Secondary Failure: Outcomes After 1 Year

Dhindsa P, Scott AR, Donnelly R. Diabetic Medicine. 2003;20(4):319-324.

Objective

To evaluate the short-term (8 weeks) and 1-year outcomes of following a very-low-calorie liquid diet (VLCD) for weight management in obese patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

A total of 40 obese patients with type 2 diabetes participated in a 12-month study divided into 2 phases: 1) 8 weeks of a VLCD (Slim•Fast®) with routine consultation with a dietitian, and 2) a follow-up phase (weeks 8 to 52) of a standard low-calorie weight maintenance diet along with simple exercise advice.

Results

The VLCD was generally well tolerated, with immediate improvements in diabetic control and early weight loss, which helped to reinforce good compliance to the regimen. The average weight loss after 8 weeks was 12 kg (26.4 lbs), and hyperglycemic symptoms improved, along with reductions in total cholesterol and blood pressure. These improvements in cardiovascular and metabolic measures were sustained after 1 year, with minimal weight regain.

Conclusion

Short-term, supervised use of a VLCD is an effective and well-tolerated approach to managing weight loss, symptoms and glycemic control in obese people with type 2 diabetes.

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