What are the best weight loss programs for diabetes?
While diets can make you lose weight and spark creativity in the kitchen, they are sometimes limiting and can lead to food fatigue and relapse. Weight loss plans for people with diabetes are designed to kickstart the weight loss journey while minimizing failure. Nutrisystem and WW both have great options for those struggling with Type 2 diabetes.
Nutrisystem
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Nutrisystem offers a four-week plan called Diabetes Basic, which involves home-delivered meals. For a slightly higher cost, around an additional dollar per day, there's also Diabetes Core by Nutrisystem. This plan provides more than 100 food options and grants unlimited access to certified educators, dietitians and tools and trackers.
This meal program is particularly suitable for individuals with limited mobility, as it brings nutritious meals and snacks directly to your doorstep.
Why we picked it
The Diabetes Uniquely Yours Plan, which starts at $12.50 per day, encompasses everything included in the core plan but also offers a broader array of food selections and an unlimited variety of frozen foods.
What reviewers say
Weight Watchers for Diabetes
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Available for approximately $50 per month, the WW for Diabetes program is built to address the needs of individuals with type 2 diabetes. This initiative has earned recognition from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and has proven effective in managing pre-diabetes conditions.
Trials involving individuals with pre-diabetes displayed noteworthy weight loss and enhancements in blood sugar levels within just six months, and these benefits endured for more than a year.
Why we picked it
What reviewers say
Diabetes and weight management
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. There are two main types: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to a dependence on insulin shots. On the other hand, Type 2 is more common and usually develops later in life and is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and sedentary behavior.
The link between obesity and diabetes
Weight plays a significant role in diabetes management, and both types of diabetes are affected differently by body weight.
Weight loss may be a sign of untreated Type 1 diabetes and a high blood sugar level, but properly controlled Type 1 does not affect your weight, especially before the condition is diagnosed and treated. This weight loss results from the body’s inability to use glucose for energy, leading to the breakdown of fat and muscle for fuel.
Once individuals with Type 1 diabetes start insulin treatment and blood sugar levels stabilize, weight may return to normal or increase if insulin dosages are not carefully adjusted. Weight gain can also occur if people consume excess calories without appropriately adjusting their insulin doses.
Type 2 diabetes tends to be linked to obesity and excess weight. Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, increases insulin resistance (this can also happen with Type 1). People with Type 2 diabetes may experience weight gain as a result of insulin therapy, especially if their blood sugar levels were high before treatment.
Weight loss is often recommended for overweight or obese individuals with Type 2 diabetes — this can improve insulin sensitivity and help manage blood sugar levels more effectively.
Other issues related to Type 2 diabetes:
- Chronic inflammation: Obesity is linked to chronic low-grade inflammation, which interferes with insulin function and contributes to insulin resistance.
- Adipose tissue (fat) activity: Dysregulated adipose tissue releases substances that impair insulin sensitivity, contributing to the development of Type 2 diabetes.
- Liver function: Obesity can lead to the accumulation of fat in the liver, which is closely related to insulin resistance and an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes.
- Genetic factors: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to obesity and diabetes, making them more vulnerable to developing diabetes even without excess weight.
- Lifestyle factors: Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as a sedentary lifestyle and poor dietary choices, can directly contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance, increasing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Weight loss is often recommended for overweight or obese individuals with Type 2 diabetes — this can improve insulin sensitivity and help manage blood sugar levels more effectively.
Best foods for diabetes
If you have diabetes, it's important to pay close attention to your diet to help manage blood sugar levels and overall health. Here are some of the best foods for those with diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association:
- Beans
- Dark green leafy vegetables
- Citrus fruit
- Berries
- Tomatoes
- Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids
- Nuts
- Whole grains
- Low-fat milk and yogurt
Foods to avoid
For individuals living with diabetes, making informed food choices is crucial to maintaining stable blood sugar levels and overall health.
Foods to avoid or enjoy in moderation:
- Fatty cuts of red meat (e.g., bacon, sausage, ribeye steak)
- Full-fat dairy products (e.g., whole milk, butter, cheese)
- Fried foods (e.g., french fries, fried chicken)
- Processed meats (e.g., hot dogs, sausages)
- Palm oil and coconut oil
- Processed and fried foods
- Many commercially baked goods (e.g., cookies, cakes, pastries)
- Some margarines and spreads
- Organ meats (e.g., liver, kidney)
- Shellfish (e.g., shrimp, crab, lobster)
- High-fat dairy products (similar to those high in saturated fats)
- Processed foods with egg yolks or added cholesterol
- Processed and packaged foods (e.g., canned soups, prepackaged meals)
- Deli meats and cured meats (e.g., ham, salami)
- Fast food and restaurant foods (often high in sodium)
- Snack foods (e.g., chips, pretzels)
FAQ
Can weight loss lead to a complete reversal of diabetes?
In some cases, significant weight loss and lifestyle changes can lead to diabetes remission, where blood sugar levels return to a nondiabetic range, and individuals may no longer require diabetes medications or insulin. However, this outcome isn't guaranteed for everyone and should be discussed with a health care provider.
Are there any challenges individuals with diabetes face trying to lose weight?
Individuals with diabetes might face blood sugar fluctuations during physical activity, adjusting insulin dosages and hunger management issues during weight loss. It's important to work closely with health care professionals to address these challenges and make necessary adjustments.
Should I consult a health care provider before starting a weight loss plan?
Yes, it's crucial to consult your health care provider — a doctor or registered dietitian — before making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine. They can help you develop a safe and effective plan tailored to your medical history and needs.
Article sources
- Diabetes Research Institute Foundation, “ Diabetes Statistics .” Accessed Aug. 3, 2023.
- World Health Organization, “ Diabetes .” Accessed Aug. 3, 2023.
- American Diabetes Association, “ Diabetes Superstar Foods .” Accessed Aug. 3, 2023
- Mayo Clinic, “ Diabetes diet: Create your healthy-eating plan .” Accessed Aug. 3, 2023
