Frequently asked questions

Is this programme right for me?

If you have Type 2 Diabetes, are motivated to reduce your medication or achieve remission and can commit to a yearlong programme of online, face to face and telephone support… then yes!

Am I eligible to join?

To be eligible for the programme, you must be aged 18 years and over, have had Type 2 diabetes for less than 12 years, and be on one of the following medications: DPP4s: Sitagliptin (also known as Januvia or Janumet), Linagliptin (also known as Trajenta or Jentadueto), SGLT2s: Dapagliflozin (also known as Forxiga or Xigduo), Canagliflozin (also known as Invokana or Invokamet), GLP-1s: Liraglutide (also known as Victoza), Dulaglutide (also known as Trulicity). Please note: These are not exhaustive and may have other types/names please speak to your healthcare professional for further advice. You are not eligible if you are planning a pregnancy, pregnant or using insulin. If you want to take part in the total diet replacement option, talk to your doctor to ensure it’s the right choice for you.

Are there any additional procedures involved that I should be aware of?

As part of the programme you will have your blood tested regularly to track your progress. This will happen at your GP practice at the beginning before you start, followed by 3, 6, and 12-month tests.

What is the cost involved?

There is no cost involved in the Low Carbohydrate Diet pathway.

I am pre-diabetic, can I join the programme?

This programme is for people who currently have Type 2 diabetes, however you can join our NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme if you are currently pre-diabetic. Please talk to your GP or go to www.preventing-diabetes.co.uk for more information.

What is Remission?

Diabetes remission in people with Type 2 Diabetes means that your blood sugar levels are health (A HbA1C less than 44mmol/mol) without needing to take any diabetes medication. Diabetes UK (2000)

Is this plan safe for me to follow?

Yes, this programme is safe to follow and is supported by research and experience. During the programme, your health and your medications will be monitored by your medical team. Your coaches will be working closely with you, and your medical team, to provide support and guidance along the way. There are strict medical criteria that you must meet in order to participate in this programme. There are some medical conditions that might mean you are not able to take part; however, this is something you will be screened for before getting started. If there is any cause for concern, or any changes to your health, please update your coach or your GP as soon as possible.

What will I be eating on this plan?

During this programme, you will be following a ‘Low Carbohydrate Diet’, consisting of 50-130g of carbohydrate per day. It is important for anyone who is following a low carbohydrate diet to have support from health care professionals. This is to ensure that your diet provides a healthy balance, is enjoyable and is tailored to your cultural and personal preferences.

Will I achieve remission from type 2 diabetes by joining this programme?

There is research to suggest that you may achieve remission with a low carbohydrate diet. Research suggests that remission of type 2 diabetes is more likely with total replacement, but we know that this is not suitable for everyone. Reducing or maintaining a healthy weight can have health benefits including fewer medications, improved blood glucose levels and reduced risk of complications.

What about supplements, should I be taking them whilst on this plan?

If you have been prescribed supplements, we recommend that you follow the advice of your GP.

Could I experience any side effects whilst on the low carbohydrate diet?

It is important to be aware that you may be at an increased risk of experiencing high (hypers) or lows (hypos) if you are on certain medications for diabetes whilst following a low carbohydrate diet. We recommend that you monitor your blood glucose levels as per guidance and discuss this with your medical team. This guidance is found in your PAP.

What happens if I miss the first or second session?

The first and second sessions are important because they give you lots of information about the programme. If you miss these sessions, then you will miss a lot of information. The programme is also set out in a very specific way to support you at key points. By missing the first session you will be out of time with the rest of your group, and with the programme. If you miss the first or second session, then we recommend that you start the programme again. If you are in a group we will try and offer you another group, however because this is a pilot places are limited.

What happens if I miss sessions later on?

If you are unable to make a session please contact us on 0333 577 3561. If you miss any session after session 2 then you reduce your chances of long-term success. These sessions are vital in helping to build healthy habits and learn new skills. If you do miss a later session then we will try and offer you another session, but this may not always be possible (as this is a pilot, places are limited).  If you miss a number of sessions and have not advised us of this in advance, we may be required to discharge you back to your GP.