“I’ve lost weight, gained muscle, and most importantly, my type 2 diabetes is now in remission.”
For Hanif, taking part in a research study at the Leicester Diabetes Centre has improved his type 2 diabetes, and given him the motivation to stick to healthier diet and exercise habits.
Hanif, aged 58 from North Evington in Leicester, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes around 2021. Since then, he’s struggled to make the changes to his life that would help his condition, and so, on hearing about the COMBINE trial, he decided to find out more.
“I saw that this trial was for people from the South Asian community specifically. As I had the support of my daughters, I decided to sign up.”
The COMBINE trial is looking at the effect of combining two approaches – low energy diet and structured exercise – for people with type 2 diabetes with South Asian heritage.
“I was pleased that I was given support on both diet and exercise for 12 weeks,” said Hanif. “I knew I needed help with both.
“The meal plans were tough at times, but the research team gave me the support I needed to make changes. The exercise sessions were really well planned out and structured, starting out gently, but then starting to push me a little more.”
Clinical Academic Dietitian, Frank Arsenyedis, said: “Type 2 diabetes is more common and is diagnosed at an earlier age in South Asian adults. This is worrying because diabetes can cause heart, kidney and physical function problems.
“The aim of the COMBINE trial is to see whether combining structured exercise and a high protein, low energy diet, can minimise muscle loss while attempting to reverse diabetes.
“We’re delighted that this is what Hanif has experienced.
“All the weight Hanif has lost has been body fat. He has preserved and built up his muscle and gotten physically fitter at the same time. We see this on the full body scans that the participants undergo as part of the study. Most importantly, Hanif’s blood sugar control has improved so much he no longer has to take his prescribed medication, which is just fantastic.”
Hanif added: “Taking part in the study has been a really positive experience for me. I’m determined to use what I’ve learned to stay healthy, and in remission from type 2 diabetes. I’d encourage anyone who fits the criteria to get involved.”
More information on the COMBINE trial
Who can take part?
• People from the South Asian community
• Living with type 2 diabetes
• Aged between 40 – 65 years old
What does the trial involve?
Past studies have shown that low energy diets lead up to half of people reversing their type 2 diabetes. This means that blood sugar levels return to normal. This is called ‘diabetes remission.’ A low energy diet means eating a lot less than normal for a short period of time. Once people have lost enough weight, they can start to eat regular food again.
Structured exercise, such as walking and simple weight training activities, can also improve blood sugar levels and strengthen muscle. The effect of combining the two approaches – low energy diet and structured exercise – have not been studied together in terms of reversing diabetes or preserving muscle.
There is no control group, all eligible participants will receive the diet intervention. Participants are supported for a further 4 weeks to safely re-introduce food and maintain their physical activity levels after completing the 12-week intervention.
The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) funded COMBINE Trial is still looking for volunteers.
For further information please, visit: www.leicesterlifestyleresearch.org.uk/studies-blog/combine