The incidence of diabetes mellitus is increasing, with a new diagnosis made every two minutes in the UK. Previously, it was believed that type 2 diabetes was progressive and irreversible. However, research has shown that it may be possible to reverse type 2 diabetes - termed remission - in people who achieve significant weight loss (>10% of their body weight) and who have had the condition for less than ten years. Weight loss should be the primary goal of treatment for people newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and nurses have an important role in supporting this. This article discusses some of the research on remission of type 2 diabetes and dietary approaches to weight loss. It also considers the role of the nurse in supporting patients with this condition to achieve and sustain weight loss.
Keywords: clinical; clinical guidelines; diabetes; evidence-based practice; health promotion; nursing care; obesity; professional; public health; research; type 2 diabetes.
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