The NHS is promoting a revolutionary diet aimed at helping individuals with type 2 diabetes achieve significant weight loss and potentially put their condition into remission. Known as the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path To Remission Programme, or the ‘soups and shakes’ diet, this initiative has seen a dramatic increase in participation.

In the 2024/25 period, over 13,000 people enrolled in the programme, doubling the number from the previous year when 6,401 participants took part. Importantly, those who qualify for the programme can access it free of charge, thanks to full NHS funding.

Recent research into the programme’s effectiveness revealed that one in three participants who completed it managed to achieve remission from type 2 diabetes. Additionally, these individuals experienced an average weight loss of nearly 16 kilograms.

NHS England shared on X: “Last year, over 13,000 people with type 2 diabetes joined the NHS ‘soups and shakes’ diet – almost double the year before. This programme is transforming lives, helping thousands lose weight and for some, putting their condition into remission.”

How does the diet work?

Participants in the programme are provided with a variety of ultra-low-calorie meal replacements, such as soups and shakes, which together amount to 800 to 900 kilocalories per day for a duration of 12 weeks.

The programme encourages participants to replace all regular meals with these low-calorie options. Additionally, the initiative includes a year-long support and monitoring phase, offering guidance on reintroducing regular food after the initial 12-week period.

Local GPs are also on hand to provide assistance, particularly if there’s a need for medication adjustments.

To qualify for the programme, applicants must have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within the last six years and have a BMI over 27kg/m2 if they’re of White ethnicity or 25kg/m2 if they’re from a Black, Asian, or other ethnic group. Those interested in joining the programme should discuss it with their GP or diabetes team at their next appointment.

NHS England’s Lead Diabetes Doctor enthused: “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”.

Full details on the programme can be found here.