Overweight or obese Chinese adults with early type 2 diabetes found that 5:2 MR could improve glycemic outcomes, weight loss in the short term as compared to prescription drugs. 

An intermittent fasting plan consisting of two non-consecutive fasting days and five days of habitual intake per week and meal replacement diet (5:2 MR) could provide greater benefits to patients with early type 2 diabetes, finds a recent study. The results of the randomised clinical trial conducted between November 2020, and December 2022, in nine centers across China were published in Jama Network Open last month. 

The randomised clinical trial of Chinese adults with overweight or obesity and with early type 2 diabetes found that 5:2 MR could improve glycemic outcomes and weight loss in the short term as compared to prescription drugs like metformin or empagliflozin, making it a promising initial intervention and early management for type 2 diabetes.

The study results were based on data from 405 participants with overweight or obesity in China who followed the 5:2 intermittent fasting diet involving two non-consecutive fasting days (one-fourth the energy intake of habitual diet) and five days of habitual intake per week. They ate one low-calorie meal replacement product — a prepackaged food between 500 and 600 calories — for the fasting days. For the rest of the week, participants ate their usual breakfast and lunch, but swapped their dinner for a different meal replacement product. The treatment period lasted for 16 weeks, followed by an eight-week follow-up.

Researchers found that the 5:2 MR approach achieved significant improvements in glycemic control and weight loss within a 16-week period, while also improving blood pressure and triglyceride and HDL-C levels. “Therefore, 5:2 MR may potentially serve as an effective initial lifestyle intervention instead of antidiabetic drugs for early-stage type 2 diabetes,” noted the researchers. Long-term follow-up studies are under way to assess the durability of 5:2 MR.

China has the highest number of adults with diabetes in the world. From 2011 to 2021, the number increased from 90 million to 140.9 million, a 56.6 per cent increase. The prevalence of diabetes among Chinese adults is 12.4 per cent. 

Overweight and obesity are significant risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes. Appropriate weight loss can improve glycemic control and reduce the dosage of antidiabetic drugs among patients with type 2 diabetes. However, achieving weight loss is often challenging, calling for the adoption of effective diet and lifestyle measures.

It’s prudent to consult with your doctor before embarking on a new diet plan. Stay informed with First Check. 

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