The 5:2 diet could control blood sugar better than some drugs in early type 2 diabetics

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2024-06-22 01:00

International

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The 5:2 diet, popularised by the late medical journalist Dr Michael Mosley, could help control blood sugar more effectively than some medications in people with early type 2 diabetes, according to Chinese research. The 5:2 diet involves eating significantly less on two fasting days a week and eating more normally on the remaining five days. The study of around 500 adults found that after 16 weeks, the diet achieved better blood sugar control and weight loss than the diabetes drugs metformin and empagliflozin. The diet also helped improve blood pressure, fat and cholesterol levels. The researchers say the 5:2 diet may be an alternative to these medications for the initial treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes.

Media release

From: JAMA

A 5:2 Intermittent Fasting Meal Replacement Diet and Glycemic Control for Adults With Diabetes
JAMA Network Open
Original Investigation

About JAMA Network Open: JAMA Network Open is an online-only open access general medical journal from the JAMA Network. On weekdays, the journal publishes peer-reviewed clinical research and commentary in more than 40 medical and health subject areas. Every article is free online from the day of publication.

About The Study: This randomized clinical trial of Chinese adults with overweight or obesity and with early type 2 diabetes found that an intermittent fasting plan consisting of two nonconsecutive fasting days and five days of habitual intake per week and meal replacement diet (5:2 MR) could improve glycemic outcomes and weight loss in the short term compared with metformin or empagliflozin, making it a promising initial intervention and early management for type 2 diabetes.

(doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.16786)

Editor’s Note: Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support.

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conference: JAMA Network Open

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Organisation/s: Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences

Funder: This trial was funded by BeijingMetabolicControl Technology Co Ltd.

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