Behavior Change, Weight Loss, and Physiological Improvements in Type II Diabetic Patients

This study investigated whether behavior modification would improve short- and long-term results of weight control programs for obese patients with Type II diabetes. Fifty-three patients with Type II diabetes, treated by diet only or with oral medication, were randomly assigned to a behavior modification, nutrition education, or standard-care condition. The behavior modification group lost more weight than either the nutrition education or standard-care condition during the initial 16-week treatment, but at 16-month follow-up, differences in weight loss across treatment conditions were not significant. Physiological parameters and mood improved with initial weight loss, but these changes were not maintained. Physiological changes appeared more directly related to weight loss than to treatment condition. Changes in weight were related to improved eating and exercise habits, and modest weight losses of 4.6-13.6 kg (10-30 lb) produced significant improvements in blood sugar control.