Introduction: Kuwait faces significant health challenges with high rates of obesity and T2D. Although very low-calorie diet plans (VLCDs) have proven effective for weight loss and glycemic control, their impact has not yet been assessed among Kuwaiti adults. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two VLCDs on weight loss and glycemic control in Kuwaiti adults with T2D.
Methods: We analyzed data from 32 adults with T2D who were not on weight loss medications at the Dasman Diabetes Institute between 2021 and 2023. Adults chose between two diet plans: TDR providing 800 kcal/day liquid formula, or a VLCD providing 900 kcal/day food-based regimen. Weight and HbA1c were measured at baseline and 3-month. Within-group changes were analyzed using paired t-tests and Wilcoxon ranked tests.
Results: Groups were comparable at baseline, with no significant differences in age or sex distribution (TDR: 52.4 ± 10.7 years and 88.9% male; VLCD: 57.6 ± 10.7 years and 78.3% male; P >0.05). The TDR group achieved a mean weight loss of 10.0 ± 3.5 kg (10.2% of initial weight) and a median HbA1c reduction of 1.0 (IQR= 0.80), whereas the VLCD group achieved a mean weight loss of 7.2 ± 3.9 kg (7.7% of initial weight) and a median HbA1c reduction of 0.9 (IQR= 0.60). Adherence differed significantly, with one-third completing the TDR (n= 9 out of 26) compared to two-thirds in the VLCD group (n= 23 out of 33, P= 0.03).
Conclusion: VLCDs demonstrated potential in reducing weight and HbA1c in Kuwaiti adults with T2D over three months. However, adherence to the TDR proved more challenging. Further research with larger samples and longer duration is warranted.
D. Alsumaiti: None. B. Allahou: None. R. Almatrook: None.
