The NHS enrolled a record number of people with type 2 diabetes onto its Path to Remission low-calorie diet programme in 2024–25, with more than 13,000 people joining — almost double the 6,401 participants in 2023–24 and the highest annual total to date.
Programme and results
The 12-month intervention begins with a 12-week total diet replacement phase using nutritionally complete soups, shakes and bars providing about 800–900 calories per day to trigger rapid weight loss. After this initial phase, clinicians and coaches help participants reintroduce healthy foods, stabilise weight, and support long-term lifestyle changes. Support is offered one-to-one in person or via digital channels.
A recent evaluation found that among people who completed the pathway, 32% achieved remission of their type 2 diabetes, with those in remission losing on average nearly 16 kg. NHS diabetes clinicians expect additional participants who started in 2024–25 will reach remission as they finish the programme.
Scale and access
Since its NHS pilot in 2020, more than 30,000 people have started the programme and it is now available across all local health areas. The programme is delivered jointly by NHS England and Diabetes UK and draws on large clinical trials demonstrating that people with overweight and a recent diagnosis of type 2 diabetes can improve blood glucose control, reduce diabetes medications and, in some cases, achieve remission.
Patient experience
Richard Seal, 62, a regional chief pharmacist, completed the programme after blood tests showed progression from pre-diabetes to diabetes. He received the meals, monitoring equipment and weekly one-to-one coaching, and used community support via a social forum. After three months his blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol and glucose were in normal ranges; he lost more than 4½ stone and reduced his waist measurement by 8 inches, and says he has maintained his weight since completing the pathway.
Eligibility and clinical context
People diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within the last six years may be eligible if their GP or diabetes team agrees. Eligibility generally requires a BMI over 27 kg/m2, or over 25 kg/m2 for people from Black, Asian and other specified ethnic groups. GPs and diabetes teams can discuss suitability with patients.
Leaders from NHS and Diabetes UK highlighted the programme’s impact on weight loss and remission for some participants, and emphasised continued research and support to help people stay in remission. The Health Minister described the initiative as an example of prevention-focused care in action.
Type 2 diabetes remains a major cause of preventable complications, including sight loss, kidney failure, limb amputation, heart attack, stroke and some cancers. More information about the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme is available via NHS England for people and clinicians considering the pathway.
