Record numbers of individuals are being prescribed a “soups and shakes” diet by the NHS to combat diabetes. More than 30,000 people have enrolled in the 12-month total diet replacement program, which involves consuming soups, shakes, and bars exclusively for the initial 12 weeks before gradually reintroducing regular food.
A recent study revealed that one in three participants on the diet plan successfully achieved remission of their Type 2 diabetes, a feat previously deemed unattainable. The number of individuals joining the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme increased significantly in 2024/25, reaching over 13,000 enrollees, nearly double the figure from the previous year.
Dr. Clare Hambling, NHS Director for Diabetes and Obesity, expressed enthusiasm over the positive impact of the proven NHS diet initiative in transforming lives by aiding thousands in weight loss and potentially reversing type 2 diabetes. Participants not only receive low-calorie diets but also benefit from personalized support and guidance to maintain a healthy lifestyle long-term.
In the UK, approximately 5.6 million people have type 2 diabetes, with an estimated 1.2 million cases that remain undiagnosed. This disease is a leading cause of preventable vision loss among working-age individuals and is linked to various serious health complications such as kidney failure, amputations, heart attacks, strokes, and cancers.
The meal replacement products provided by the NHS contain 800 to 900 calories per day, significantly lower than the recommended daily intake of 2,500 kcal for men and 2,000 kcal for women. Program participants are supervised by healthcare professionals to gradually reintroduce nutritious foods for sustained weight loss, with their progress closely monitored.
Colette Marshall, chief executive at Diabetes UK, highlighted the organization’s role in driving research that has revolutionized the treatment and management of type 2 diabetes, making remission a viable outcome for some individuals. Achieving remission can lead to a healthier future, reduce diabetes-related risks, and enhance overall well-being. The NHSE Path to Remission program, inspired by Diabetes UK’s DiRECT trial, has positively impacted tens of thousands of individuals.
Maintaining type 2 diabetes remission can be demanding, emphasizing the importance of ongoing commitment and support. To qualify for the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme, individuals must have received a type 2 diabetes diagnosis within the past six years and have a BMI exceeding 27, or 25 for individuals from specific ethnic backgrounds.
