NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission (formerly NHS Low Calorie Diet) frequently asked questions

Is this programme safe to follow?

Yes, this programme is safe to follow. It is supported by research and experience. During the programme, your health and your medications will be monitored by your healthcare team. Your Diabetes Practitioner will be working closely with you, and your healthcare team, to provide support at every step. 

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 Diabetes Practitioner or your GP as soon as possible. Please also inform your Diabetes Practitioner of any changes to your blood glucose lowering medications whilst you are on the programme. 

What will I be eating/drinking on this plan?

During the stage 1 of the programme, you will be on a ‘Total Diet Replacement’ (also called TDR). You will consume specially designed products typically in the form of shakes, soups or porridges, instead of your usual meals. The TDR products will provide you with the vitamins and minerals your body needs whilst also causing weight loss. The drinks you have in addition to TDR must be calorie free, which means no drinks containing sugar, no milk in tea or coffee and no alcohol. In the second stage of the programme, you will be gradually reintroducing balanced meals back into your diet. 

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

The programme is based on research. Research shows that the more weight you lose the more chance you have of achieving remission of type 2 diabetes. It is important to know that remission of type 2 diabetes may not be possible for everyone. However, even losing 5% of your weight can have health benefits including fewer medications, improved blood glucose levels and reduced risk of complications of type 2 diabetes. 

Should I be taking supplements whilst on this plan?

TDR products are nutritionally complete and therefore supplementation is not necessary, unless you have been prescribed supplements by your healthcare team. In this case, we recommend that you follow the advice of your healthcare team. Other supplements may be used to manage some of the side effects that you may experience whilst on the programme e.g., fibre supplement for constipation. 

What happens if I miss the first or second session?

The first and second sessions are vital because they give you lots of information about the programme and how to prepare for the TDR stage. 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. If you miss the first or second session, then we recommend that you start the programme again. We will try to facilitate this, however places are limited and therefore this cannot be guaranteed. 

What happens if I miss sessions later on?

If you miss a session without informing us, we will try to contact you to arrange a ‘catch up call/session’. If we are unable to reach you after multiple attempts, you would be advised of the risk of being discharged from the programme. If you are unable to attend a session, please contact our friendly team on 0333 577 3561 or query@xylahealth.com 

Can I combine or double up on my TDR products (e.g., have a vanilla and strawberry shake, or have 2 soups at the same time)?

Yes, you can. However, make sure that you have 4 TDR products per day during stage 1 of the programme.