What is the research study about?
This research study is called the DIVERSE Study. It aims to understand how adults from different ethnic backgrounds respond to a twelve-week low-calorie diet used to manage type 2 diabetes.
Previous research has shown that significant weight loss using a total diet replacement can lower blood sugar levels (also known a blood glucose) and, in some cases, lead to remission of type 2 diabetes. However, most of this research has involved White European populations, with very limited representation from Black African and Caribbean population.
This study compares how Black African and Caribbean adults and White European adults respond to the same diet. Researchers will measure changes in weight, blood sugar levels, insulin sensitivity, and fat stored in organs such as the liver and pancreas. By comparing results before and after weight loss, the study aims to understand whether this dietary approach works equally well for everyone.
In the long term, the findings may help improve understanding of type 2 diabetes and support the development of fairer and more personalised treatments for people from all backgrounds.
What does the DIVERSE study involve?
If you take part, your involvement will last around fourteen weeks, including a twelve-week total diet replacement.
You would attend several visits at the Leicester Diabetes Centre, with MRI scans carried out at Glenfield Hospital. These visits include:
Health checks, blood tests, and body measurements
Scans to measure body fat and fat in organs and cardiac size and function
Tests to see how your body processes sugar and insulin
Wearing glucose and activity monitors
Following a low-calorie diet using provided meal replacement products
Regular reviews with a dietitian or nutritionist
Taking part in voluntary and will not affect your usual care.
Who can take part?
The research team is inviting people who:
Are aged between 40 and 65
Have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) within the last 6 years
Identify as either Black African Caribbean or White European
To find out more and take part:
Please fill in the form below or contact the study team:
Email: uhl-tr.diversestudy@nhs.net or Call: 0116 258 8602
Click here to fill in a form to see if you are eligible to take part in the DIVERSE study.