Successful weight-loss programme?

Study results presented this weekend at the American Dietetic Association's annual meeting showed that patients with type 2 diabetes who used calcium-rich meal replacements in conjunction with a prescription appetite suppressant lost more weight over a one-year period than those who used a standard weight loss programme. In addition, they also maintained bone mineral density (BMD).

The weight loss regimen combined two methods for weight-loss: structured meals with portion control and meal replacements and a daily appetite suppressant. For one week out of every 2 months the diet was reduced to only include meal replacements (shakes and bars) and the appetite suppressant.

"This study demonstrates that diabetic patients can avoid the expected bone mineral loss associated with weight loss,"​ said Susan Raatz of the General Clinical Research Center at University of Minnesota Medical School. "People often focus on only losing weight, without regard for the long-term nutritional health consequences. Optimal health requires a balance of nutrients, including calcium, for healthy bones to help reduce the risk of long-term complications such as osteoporosis."​

The randomised, controlled two-year study was supported in part by the Slim-Fast Nutrition Institute and involved 59 overweight subjects with type 2 diabetes who did not require insulin. All subjects received standard therapy that included nutritional counselling on how to reduce daily caloric consumption by 750 to 1000 calories, behaviour modification, and an exercise programme of at least three, half-hour sessions every week.

Harry Greene, vice president and medical director of the Slim-Fast Foods Company, said: "We all know there is no quick fix for weight loss. This study shows that a balanced diet and exercise programme, along with using meal replacements, was effective in maintaining weight loss for at least a year."​

Some diets eliminate certain foods or categories of foods necessary for good bone health. A precursor to osteoporosis, low BMD is characterised as a reduction in bone mass. As people age, bones naturally become thinner as minerals (such as calcium), mass, and structure are lost, thereby making bones weaker. Over time, this can lead to osteoporosis and fractures. A diet high in calcium, as well as a number of other nutrients, is necessary to maintain normal bone density.