• improve their diabetes control
• reduce diabetes related medication
• and even achieve remission (no longer have diabetes)

The programme in mid and south Essex is delivered by Oviva. You can find out more about this by visiting their website.

Who is eligible

The NHS Low Calorie Diet Programme isn’t suitable for everyone and there are some eligibility requirements that you must meet to be involved.

To be eligible, you must be:

• aged between 18 and 65 years old
• not pregnant or planning to get pregnant
• have a confirmed diagnosis of type 2 diabetes within the last 6 years
• motivated to change your lifestyle and can commit to the 12-month programme

There are also some other factors which need to be considered which your GP practice team will discuss with you.

How it works

If eligible, you will be given low calorie, total diet replacement products for up to 12 weeks. For example, this could be soups and shakes which add up to around 900 calories per day.

During this time, you will replace all normal meals with these products. You will then be given a carefully managed plan which will help you to reintroduce healthy and nutritious food.

You will be supported to track your progress through virtual one-to-ones, group sessions or digital support. This will help you to maintain a healthier weight. This will get the help and advice you need throughout every stage of the programme.

Whilst on the programme, you will be closely supported by your local GP practice, for example if medicines need to be changed.

How to access this programme

To find out more about the NHS Low Calorie Diet Programme and whether you are eligible, please visit the NHS website and the Oviva website.

You need to be referred by your GP to access this programme. If you think you are eligible and would like to be referred, please speak with your GP practice.