Water Wins: Simple Switch Improves Diabetes and Weight Loss
New research reveals a straightforward dietary adjustment that could dramatically improve health for women with type 2 diabetes. Replacing diet beverages with water may lead to significant weight loss, potentially increasing the chances of long-term diabetes remission, according to recent findings presented at the American Diabetes Association’s Scientific Sessions.
Study Results Highlight Impact
The study followed adult women with type 2 diabetes and obesity or overweight over 18 months, comparing those who swapped diet drinks for water with those who continued their regular diet beverage intake. Participants first completed a six-month weight loss program, followed by a 12-month weight maintenance phase. The water group showed remarkable improvements in weight loss and diabetes remission rates.
“These findings challenge a common belief in the U.S. that diet drinks have no potential negative effects for managing weight and blood sugar.”
—Hamid R. Farshchi, MD, PhD, CEO of D2Type
The water group experienced a significantly greater average weight loss of -6.82 ± 2.73 kg compared to the diet beverage group’s -4.85 ± 2.07 kg (P<0.001). An impressive 90% of the water group achieved diabetes remission, compared to only 45% of the diet beverage group (P<0.0001). The CDC reports that roughly one-fifth of the U.S. population regularly consumes diet drinks (Source).
Broader Implications
Beyond weight loss, other health markers like BMI, fasting glucose, and insulin levels also significantly improved in the water group. Researchers, including Mehdi Farshchi, Ameneh Madjd, Moira Taylor, Ian A. Macdonald, and Hamid R. Farshchi, are now looking at a holistic approach to diabetes management by examining other lifestyle factors.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is celebrating 85 years of fighting to end diabetes through research and support. The ADA’s 85th Scientific Sessions hosted thousands of experts to discuss the latest research and advancements.
