Can we turn back the clock? The path to remission of diabetes in young people

A new clinical trial called RESET for Remission found that a controlled program of low-calorie diet and physical activity led to remission of type 2 diabetes in 54% of participants diagnosed before age 45, compared to 4% in the control group. The study included 96 adults from England and Canada.

A new clinical trial called RESET for Remission, recently published, found that an intensive intervention program of a low-calorie diet and controlled physical activity can lead to remission of type 2 diabetes diagnosed before age 45. The study included 96 adults from England and Canada. In the intervention group, 54% of participants achieved remission after six months, compared to only 4% in the control group receiving standard care. Remission was defined as a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level below 6.5% without using diabetes medications for at least 12 weeks. The program included an initial 12 weeks of an 800-900 calorie daily diet based on meal replacements, along with supervised aerobic and strength training twice a week, followed by a transition to weight maintenance nutrition. Experts reviewing the study noted limitations: small sample size, a short follow-up period of only six months, and difficulty adhering to the strict regimen outside a research setting. The article emphasizes that significant lifestyle changes can alter the course of the disease, but recommends consulting a doctor before making drastic changes.