A recent study from the Cleveland Clinic has provided new insights into how weight loss and blood sugar control independently affect the health outcomes of people with type 2 diabetes. The research, which analyzed over 1,300 patients using real-world data, found that for every 1% decrease in BMI, there was a 4% reduction in cardiovascular risk. This effect was seen regardless of changes in blood sugar levels, underscoring the critical role that weight management plays in preventing heart disease in diabetic patients.
On the other hand, blood sugar control, measured by HbA1c levels, was linked to a lower risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD), even when no significant weight loss occurred. This finding emphasizes the need to focus on glycemic control to protect kidney function in people with diabetes.
The study also highlighted the benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists—such as Ozempic and Wegovy—which help manage both weight and blood sugar. This dual approach could reduce the risk of severe complications like heart disease and CKD, making these medications increasingly valuable for diabetes treatment.
For further reading, you can find more details in this study on type 2 diabetes outcomes.