Scientists from the Universities of Glasgow and Newcastle have concluded that significant weight loss in diabetes helps to effectively control blood pressure and reduce the consumption of medications to lower it.
The study looked at a 12-week program that included a balanced diet. Participants lost more than 15 kg. Medication was discontinued early in the program and only reintroduced if blood sugar or blood pressure levels increased. After the weight loss phase, participants were supported to make informed food choices to maintain their weight. This allowed 8 out of 10 people to stay off medication for at least two years.
The study involved 143 people. The scientists recorded that average blood pressure steadily decreased with weight loss, remaining consistently low even 12 and 24 months after completing the diet.
