Consumer insights into low-energy formula diet interventions for type 2 diabetes management - A scoping review

Growing evidence indicates that early-stage type 2 diabetes is reversible. Remission may be achieved through substantial weight loss using low-energy and very-low-energy total diet replacement (LED and VLED TDR) interventions. Despite proven effectiveness, there is limited understanding of consumers' experiences and acceptability of such interventions. This scoping review aimed to provide an overview of the insights and experiences of consumers undertaking LED and VLED TDR interventions for type 2 diabetes management. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five databases in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines (inception to February 2026). Fifteen studies were included. Overall, LED and VLED interventions were acceptable and formula diet products well tolerated. Key motivators for adherence during the intensive TDR phase included the potential for type 2 diabetes remission and weight loss. Broader benefits such as improvements in physical and psychological wellbeing were increasingly recognised as the interventions progressed. Identified challenges included inconsistent education delivery, insufficient psychological support, and limited consideration of cultural needs. Understanding of dietary quality and behaviour change beyond program completion remains limited, and small, homogenous samples may restrict the generalisability of findings. This highlights opportunities for tailored support in future programs to promote healthy lifestyle behaviours and optimise long-term remission outcomes.