We are piloting a service to support people with Type 2 Diabetes to achieve remission using the Counterweight Plus programme.
Background:
A large-scale UK research trial called the DiRECT trial has shown that adults with Type 2 Diabetes, if they have been diagnosed for less than 6 years, have a strong chance of putting their diabetes into remission if they are able to lose approximately 15kg in weight.
What is remission?
Remission means that the person’s blood glucose (sugar) levels are below the diabetes range without needing to take any diabetes medication.
Our pilot project is funded by the Scottish Government as part of the Diabetes Framework which sets out how Health Boards can provide the right level of support to people with or at risk of Type 2 Diabetes to achieve a healthier weight and lifestyle. We are working with colleagues in Primary Care, Shetland Recreational Trust and the Physiotherapy Team to optimise the outcomes for individuals.
What does the weight loss programme involve?
It lasts for a minimum of 12 months, up to 2 years supported by a dietitian throughout. Low calorie shakes and soups are provided for the first 12 weeks, then food is gradually reintroduced. Individuals are supported with lifestyle changes and learn behaviour change strategies.
We will be seeking stakeholder’s feedback to evaluate the project. The hope is that we will be able to roll out the programme to offer it to more people in Shetland, with a number of places to be funded each year.