Weight management has lasting effects in diabetics

Type 2 diabetics, who took part in a multi-pronged weight management program and had lost weight, were able to keep it off long-term.Researchers from America studied 62 men and women who participated in the 12 week why WAIT (weight achievement and intensive treatment) programme to investigate the prevalence of obesity and overweight among the type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. The programme included intensive, tailored management of diabetes medication; individualised meal plans; exercise plans and coaching; weekly cognitive behavioural group therapy; and weekly group education sessions.After the programme, the patients were found to loose weight at an average of 24 pound, or 10 percent of their initial body weight, and participants were trimmed by 4 inches from their waistlines. After a year, patients were still 18 pounds lighter on average, representing an 8 percent reduction in their original body weight. Among the participants taking short-acting insulin, 21 percent were able to quit, while the rest of those on insulin therapy cut their dosage by more than half. Nearly two-thirds of participants who were taking diabetes drugs, which were associated with weight gain, had stopped taking them, while the rest reduced their dosage significantly.The researchers found 12 percent reduction in total cholesterol, 21 percent drop in triglycerides, 11 percent reduction in LDL cholesterol and 1 percent reduction in haemoglobin. The reduction in medication use would save the annual cost spent on the treatment.It was concluded that in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity or over-weight were the core of the problem.

DoctorNDTV is the one stop site for all your health needs providing the most credible health information, health news and tips with expert advice on healthy living, diet plans, informative videos etc. You can get the most relevant and accurate info you need about health problems like diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, HIV and AIDS, weight loss and many other lifestyle diseases. We have a panel of over 350 experts who help us develop content by giving their valuable inputs and bringing to us the latest in the world of healthcare.

Advertisement