Type 2 diabetes is a condition that often goes hand in hand with excess weight or obesity. For individuals diagnosed with this condition, achieving weight loss is not only beneficial, but also vital for managing their health. In the quest for the most effective dietary approach, researchers have been exploring various strategies. One such strategy, time-restricted eating, has recently shown promising results in a groundbreaking study featured in Medical News Today. Obesity expert and board-certified bariatric surgeon Dr. Seun Sowemimo provided his clinical expertise for the article.
The Study: Time-Restricted Eating vs. Calorie Counting
The study, presented at Nutrition 2023, involved 75 individuals aged 18–80 years who had both obesity and type 2 diabetes. These participants were divided into three groups: one followed time-restricted eating, another practiced calorie restriction, and the third served as the control group. Those in the time-restricted eating group consumed their meals only from noon to 8 p.m., while the calorie-restriction group monitored their calorie intake throughout the day. Surprisingly, the results revealed that the time-restricted eating group experienced greater weight loss compared to the calorie-counting group.
Expert Insights from Dr. Seun Sowemimo
Dr. Sowemimo emphasized that a combination of disease management tools yields the most effective results for diabetes management and weight loss. Time-restricted eating (intermittent fasting) was hailed as a powerful strategy by Dr. Sowemimo, as it helps the body switch from burning sugar to burning fat, leading to weight loss and improved blood sugar control. By reducing the frequency of blood glucose spikes, time-restricted eating supports diabetes management.
Additionally, Dr. Sowemimo recommended consuming foods high in natural fiber and avoiding processed foods with added sugar. Natural fiber aids in regulating sugar absorption, preventing rapid sugar spikes and insulin surges. Contrary to a popular myth, he also encouraged diabetes patients to include fresh fruits in their diet, emphasizing that the natural sugar content in fruits is not a cause for concern.
Implications for Type 2 Diabetes Patients
The study’s findings provide valuable insights into the benefits of time-restricted eating for type 2 diabetes patients. Dr. Sowemimo highlighted that this research adds further evidence that the timing of food consumption plays a crucial role in diabetes management, weight loss, and overall well-being. He cautioned that patients should only adopt time-restricted eating in consultation with their physicians.
Coupled with expert insights from Dr. Seun, the findings offer hope for a new approach to diabetes management. While time-restricted eating shows great promise, patients must consult with their diabetes healthcare provider before making any dietary changes. Embracing a holistic approach to diabetes management, including time-restricted eating and other disease management tools, can pave the way for a healthier and happier life for those with type 2 diabetes.
READ: How Weight Loss Surgery Can Put Type 2 Diabetes into Rapid Remission
Trust experienced surgeon “Dr. Seun” Sowemimo with your health and weight management
Prime Surgicare offers several solutions for weight loss, managing type 2 diabetes and even putting the weight-related chronic disease into remission. Call 732-414-2707 to schedule a prompt private consultation to learn more about surgical weight loss options. Dr. Sowemimo is an in-network provider with Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ. For Dr. Seun’s 4-factor online course to non-surgical weight loss and weight management for life, visit Dr. Seun’s Weight Loss Plan.