‘Life changing or a failure’? Qualitative experiences of service users from the weight maintenance phase of the NHS Low Calorie Diet Programme pilot for type 2 diabetes

Authors

  • Catherine Homer Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University
  • Karina Kinsella Obesity Institute and School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds
  • Tamara Brown Obesity Institute and School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds
  • Jordan Marwood Obesity Institute and School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds
  • Kevin Drew Obesity Institute and School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds
  • Duncan Radley Obesity Institute and School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds
  • Charlotte Freeman Obesity Institute and School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds
  • Abimbola Ojo Obesity Institute and School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds
  • Jennifer Teke Obesity Institute and School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds
  • Ken Clare Obesity Institute and School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds
  • Chirag Bakhai Larkside Practice, Churchfield Medical Centre, Luton, Bedfordshire
  • Louisa Ells Obesity Institute and School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15277/bjd.2024.432

Keywords:

type 2 diabetes, obesity management, Low Calorie Diet, qualitative, longitudinal, weight maintenance, Re:Mission study

Abstract

Background: The weight maintenance phase of the NHS Low CalorieaDiet (LCD) programme focuses on embedding long- term dietary and physical activity changes. Understanding individual experiences of this phase is crucial to exploring long- term effectiveness and equity of the intervention approach.

Methods: This was a coproduced qualitative study underpinned by a realist informed approach, using interviews and photovoice techniques. Service users (n=25) of the NHS LCD programme were recruited from three delivery models, across 21 sites in England. Data were analysed using a thematic approach.

Results: The experiences reported were largely positive, with many participants reporting changes in their diet and physical activity. Some service users expressed a need for additional support and there appeared variation in their experiences of the service providers and the wider available support network. Fear of weight regain and its glycaemic consequences was expressed by many; various mitigations were employed, including participating in other weight loss services and continuing use of Total Diet Replacement products.

Conclusions: The NHS LCD programme has been life-changing for some people. However, service user insights suggest that a stronger person-centred focus might further improve effectiveness and service user experience.

References

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Published

2024-06-29

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Original Research

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