Comparing the acceptability of total diet replacement and food-based low-calorie diets for type 2 diabetes remission amongst Southeast Asians: a public and patient involvement activity

Background: With type 2 diabetes prevalence rising at alarming rates, low-calorie diets (total diet replacement and food-based low-calorie diets) are increasingly used to induce weight loss and achieve diabetes remission. The effectiveness of these diets has been primarily tested in the UK white population but not in the Southeast Asian population at high risk of diabetes. Obtaining the opinion of members of the community on what would constitute a culturally acceptable diet is essential for successful interventions aiming to achieve diabetes remission in the southeast Asian population. Methods: We organised two patient and public involvement activities in the North West of England to understand views of people from the Southeast Asian population on whether low-calorie diets (850 Kcal) in the form of total diet replacement or food-based meals, are acceptable dietary interventions to achieve diabetes remission. Results: Thirteen people, with either type 2 diabetes or having someone with diabetes in the family attended a virtual or a face-to-face meeting. Low-calorie total diet replacement in the form of soups and shakes was considered unacceptable, while there was a preference for a culturally tailored low-calorie food-based diet. Ready-made portion controlled catered meals were suggested as an excellent approach to improve adherence. Conclusions: This work provided valuable insights to shape a future study looking at the feasibility to reverse diabetes in primary care through dietary intervention in the Southeast Asian population.