A SOUPS and shakes diet that can reverse type 2 diabetes will be rolled out nationwide on the NHS after successful trials.
Slimmers on the radical year-long programme are restricted to 900 calories or less for the first three months and typically lose two to three stone.
Up to half of those with type 2 diabetes later go into remission and are able to come off medication, slashing their risk of heart diseases.
Health chiefs want to sign up 50,000 more patients in the next five years.
More than four million Brits have type 2 diabetes with cases rising in line with obesity rates.
Hospitals run out of oxygen and mortuaries full amid NHS chaos
Amanda Pritchard, CEO of NHS England, said: “This programme can be truly life-changing.
This programme has already helped thousands and now many more will benefit
Colette Marshall
“Type 2 diabetes can have a devastating impact for so many people and their families.
“This programme can reduce their risks of significant health complications and support them to stay well for the long-term.”
Patients in the diet must stick to free diet replacement soups, milkshakes and bars to keep their calorie intake low.
It was available in 21 local health boards in England but will now roll out to all 42.
Patients in any area will be able to get it if they are aged 18 to 65, overweight and diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the last six years.
After the initial severe calorie restrictions, NHS health coaches help patients to stick to a healthy diet.
Colette Marshall, chief of the charity Diabetes UK said: “We’re delighted that the programme has already helped thousands of people with weight loss and remission.
“This expansion means that many more people will benefit.
Mystic Mag's 2023 predictions include strikes, sleaze, self pity and separation
“Remission from type 2 diabetes can transform health and wellbeing and potentially reduce the risk of serious long term complications.”
The NHS spends about 10 per cent of its yearly budget – some £10billion – on treating diabetes.
The condition raises the risk of heart attacks, strokes, cancer and dementia as well as leg amputations and blindness.
