The REmission of Diabetes Using a PlAnt-based Weight Loss InteRvention (REPAIR) Trial

The plant-based intensive lifestyle intervention has 2 phases. The first 12-weeks is a weight loss phase consisting of a plant-based, high-plant protein energy restricted total diet replacement (TDR), psyllium-based fibre and complete multivitamin supplements, and vegetable bouillon, with the option of continuing with this phase up to week 20. The second phase is weight-loss maintenance beginning with an 8-week (weeks 12-20) stepped food reintroduction phase with partial meal replacement, progressing towards the 32-week (weeks 20-52) full food introduction phase. These phases focus on introducing a plant-based, high-plant protein, energy balanced, weight loss maintenance diet, which will be supported by a digital program. At weeks 12-28, a 16-week in-person structured exercise training program will be delivered followed by 2-weekly motivational phone calls until the 52-weeks. A 19-session, group-based, structured behavioural support program will be delivered throughout the study.

Participants will continue to receive usual diabetes and obesity management as per current Canadian clinical practice guidelines. The management will continue to be delivered to participants through their family doctor, nurse practitioner, or diabetes care team with standard frequency of contact. Participants will attend clinic visits on 5 occasions (weeks 0, 12, 28, 40 and 52) and will receive motivational phone calls between visits to provide reminders regarding follow-up with their diabetes care providers.