Inspiring remission results from a busy UK doctor
- amullens6
- Sep 7, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 11, 2023
This story was first shared on the IPTN site in January 2023. But since that time, Dr. Unwin's publication in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health has become the journal's most popular paper that they have ever published! It's proof: Patients and health providers want to learn about type 2 diabetes remission.
In early January, BMJNutrition published an 8-year audit from Dr. David Unwin's practice at the Norwood Surgery in the United Kingdom. The paper was co-authored with Dr. Roy Taylor, the principal investigator in the DiRECT trial. Results from the practice audit showed that for those patients choosing a low-carbohydrate approach, the following results were achieved:
97% showed improved type 2 diabetes control over 33 months;
77% of those starting within 1 year after diagnosis of type 2 diabetes achieved remission;
Overall 51% of all participants achieved remission.
Key messages from the paper:
Type 2 diabetes remission is possible, even in a busy primary care practice;
The earlier that the approach is implemented, the greater the chance of remission;
Almost all the patients who chose to adopt a low carbohydrate approach in this practice saw other significant health benefits even if drug-free remission was not achieved;
Results can deteriorate and relapses occur if patients are not provided ongoing support through educational materials, group sessions, effective coping strategies, and timely feedback;
Hope is a powerful motivator.
This paper reflects a real-world practice and is not randomized, does not have a control group, and therefore has the potential for bias.
However, it provides important insights into what is possible in primary care when type 2 diabetes remission options are given to patients and when results are tracked on an ongoing basis.
If you are interested in type 2 diabetes remission, it is worth your time to read the whole paper, found here:
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