The NHS supported a record number of people with type 2 diabetes to join its innovative ‘soups and shakes’ diet programme last year, helping thousands lose weight and, for some, put their condition into remission.
In 2024–25, over 13,000 people enrolled on the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme – almost double the previous year’s figure of 6,401 and the highest ever recorded. NHS England’s Lead Diabetes Doctor has hailed the programme as “transforming lives”.
A recent study found that among those who completed the programme:
- 1 in 3 (32%) achieved remission of type 2 diabetes.
- Participants lost an average of nearly 16kg.
Experts predict hundreds more from the latest cohort will also achieve remission.
The 12-month programme begins with a 12-week low-calorie diet using nutritionally complete soups, shakes and bars (800–900 calories per day), followed by gradual reintroduction of healthy foods. Participants receive ongoing support from clinicians and coaches, either in person or online.
Since its pilot in 2020, over 30,000 people have started the programme, which is now available in every local health area. Delivered jointly by NHS England and Diabetes UK, the initiative is based on major studies showing that structured weight-loss programmes can improve diabetes control, reduce medication, and even reverse the condition.
NHS Clinical Director for Diabetes and Obesity, Dr Clare Hambling, said:
“It is fantastic to see that this proven NHS diet programme is transforming lives – helping thousands of people to lose weight, and for some people put their type 2 diabetes into remission.
“The revolutionary programme can really help turn things around for people with type 2 diabetes who are struggling to manage their weight and health, and alongside the low calorie diets themselves, patients are provided with 1-to-1 support and guidance to help them sustain a healthy lifestyle for longer.”
Type 2 diabetes is a leading cause of preventable sight loss and contributes to kidney failure, amputations, heart attacks, strokes and some cancers. Eligible individuals – diagnosed within the last six years and meeting BMI criteria – can discuss joining the programme with their GP or diabetes team.
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