Weight management in T2D

Weight and obesity are modifiable risk factors for diabetes onset and progression, with obesity management linked to a delay in progression from prediabetes to T2D, and to T2D progression.

Pharmacological weight loss strategies for T2D

Professor Caroline Apovian gives an overview of the pharmacological weight loss strategies for type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the video below.

Pharmacological weight loss strategies for T2D

Patient involvement in weight management

Professor Caroline Apovian discusses the importance of patient involvement and education in weight management in T2D in the following video.

Patient involvement in weight management

Patient involvement is crucial in weight management for T2D. Here are several ways patients can be involved^41,42:

1. Education: Patients should be educated on the importance of healthy eating habits, portion control and physical activity
2. Goal setting: In consultation with their healthcare professional (HCP), patients can set realistic weight loss goals
3. Healthy eating: Patients can improve their diet by limiting processed foods, sugar and saturated fats, as well as eating a healthy, balanced diet that is low in calories and high in nutrients, such as wholegrains, fruits and vegetables
4. Physical activity: Patients should avoid sedentary behaviour and instead engage in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, to aid in weight loss and overall health
5. Maintain a healthy weight: Losing 1–2 pounds per week gradually can help with glucose control
6. Collaboration: Patients should collaborate with their HCP to develop a customised weight-management plan
7. Self-monitoring: Patients can track their progress and make adjustments as needed by regularly monitoring their weight and blood sugar levels
8. Medications: Patients can consult with their HCP to see if medication is required to aid in weight management
9. Adherence: Patients should consistently adhere to their exercise, diet plans and medication routine as part of their weight management regimen
10. Support: Patients can seek support from friends, family or support groups to help with weight loss efforts
11. Reflection: Patients should reflect on their progress and make changes to their plans as needed to achieve their goals

By being actively involved in their weight management, patients can greatly improve their chances of successfully managing T2D.