Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) has become a major public health problem. Achieving remission (HbA1c\<6.5% without glucose-lowering medications) has recently become a new treatment goal. Low-calorie diets effectively induce remission, but adverse effects like fatigue, appetite, and constipation hinder success. Integrating traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbs into a low-calorie diet may alleviate adverse effects and improve remission rates.
This project investigates the efficacy of a Low-Calorie Medicine Diet (LCMD) in achieving T2DM remission among overweight/obese individuals through a randomized controlled trial. The investigators will explore individual differences in remission and elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms, focusing on the brain-gut-microbiota axis. By integrating nutrition and TCM dietetics, this project provides a novel, evidence-based approach to managing T2DM in Chinese populations.
Physician-diagnosed T2DM
The history of T2DM less than 6 years
Most recent HbA1c higher than 6.5%
Body mass index: 24-45 kg/m2
Type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes currently treated with insulin, or HbA1c ≥12%
Cardiovascular events within 6 months before trial
Current use of anti-obesity medications, eating disorders, dieting behaviors, or weight loss >5 kg within 6 months before trial
Chronic kidney disease stage 3b or above (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)