Virta Health has emerged as a notable player in the realm of type 2 diabetes treatment, offering a unique approach that combines real-time medical supervision, one-on-one health coaching, and personalized nutritional guidance based on carbohydrate restriction. This article delves into a comprehensive analysis of Virta Health's weight loss program, drawing upon various reviews and studies to provide a balanced perspective.
Virta Health: An Overview
Virta Health, introduced in spring 2017, positions itself as a solution to "reverse" type 2 diabetes without resorting to surgery or medications. The program operates as an "online specialty medical clinic," providing individuals with access to health coaches and physicians who guide them in managing and potentially reversing their diabetes through daily online coaching and very low-carb, high-fat (ketogenic) diets. The core principle behind Virta's approach is that significantly reducing carbohydrate intake can dramatically decrease the need for glucose-lowering medications.
Virta defines "reversal" of type 2 diabetes as maintaining an A1C level below 6.5% while eliminating all diabetes medications, with the exception of metformin. It's important to note that this definition doesn't necessarily imply a permanent cure, as diabetes can return if lifestyle modifications are not sustained. Some healthcare providers prefer the term "remission" to reflect this nuance.
Reported Outcomes and Benefits
Earlier one-year results from Virta's trial demonstrated that, on average, participants experienced a 1.3% reduction in A1C levels and a 12% decrease in body weight (equivalent to 24 lbs of weight loss for a 200 lb individual). After one year in the program, 60% of completing participants achieved diabetes reversal based on Virta's definition. Two-year results presented at a scientific conference echoed these positive outcomes.
Notably, Virta has adopted an "at risk" pricing model for insurance companies, meaning that they only get paid if the user experiences tangible benefits.
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diaTribe Reader Reviews: A Year-Long Perspective
To gain deeper insights into the Virta experience, diaTribe conducted a year-long study involving five randomly selected readers with type 2 diabetes who expressed interest in the program. These participants were surveyed at various points throughout the year, and their feedback provides valuable insights.
Universal Positive Experiences
All five participants reported feeling significantly better while on the Virta program. They all experienced a reduction in their A1C levels through the low-carb approach and the support of Virta's coaching. One participant even achieved a remarkable 2.1% drop in A1C! Before starting Virta, four of the five participants were using diabetes medications, which they were able to reduce or eliminate.
The Role of Health Coaches
Participants consistently praised the relationships they developed with their health coaches, unanimously agreeing that the frequency of interaction with Virta's healthcare team was "just the right amount." Some even suggested that the coaching aspect was more beneficial than the diet itself.
Cost Concerns
Despite the positive experiences, participants expressed concerns about the high cost of Virta for individuals paying out-of-pocket, as the one-year trial was provided to them free of charge.
Individual Success Stories
The diaTribe study highlighted several individual success stories, showcasing the diverse ways in which Virta can impact people's lives:
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Anya: A Life-Changing Transformation
Anya, a 40-year-old participant, lost nearly 50 lbs after ten months on the Virta Treatment. Her A1C decreased by 2.1%, and she was able to discontinue all diabetes and cholesterol medications. Anya reported increased energy levels and improved sleep, describing Virta as a life-changing experience.
André: Continued Improvement
André, a 55-year-old participant who had already been following a ketogenic diet before joining Virta, reported that the program helped him further improve his diet, maintain his weight loss, and keep his A1C at a low 5.0%. He found the coaching to be incredibly helpful.
Betty: Reduced Insulin Needs
Betty, a 63-year-old participant, lost over 20 lbs and reduced her A1C by 0.8% while on the Virta Treatment. Notably, she was able to decrease her daily insulin requirements by 78% after approximately 8 months with Virta. Betty credited Virta's online resources and coaching program for her success, emphasizing their role in keeping her motivated and accountable.
Sarah: A Wake-Up Call
Sarah, a 50-year-old participant, reduced her A1C by 0.7% after just three months on the Virta Treatment, without using any diabetes medications. While she didn't experience significant weight loss, she felt "much better" on the program. Sarah attributed her A1C improvements to her own actions and decisions, highlighting the program's role in making her realize the need to address her blood glucose levels.
Steve: A New Outlook on Life
Steve, a 45-year-old participant, lost 30 lbs and reduced his A1C by 1% on the Virta Treatment. He reported feeling more in control of his blood sugar and was able to stop all diabetes medications. Steve emphasized that Virta had changed his outlook on life, including his daily eating habits and appreciation for food.
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Additional Testimonials
Victor: Embracing a New Lifestyle
Victor, a Virta patient, shared his experience of losing 30 pounds and lowering his A1c by 3 points within four months of joining the program. He described a newfound sense of calm and a diminished obsession with food. Victor highlighted the comprehensive resources provided by Virta, which simplified meal planning and helped him adapt to the dietary changes.
Donna: Reversing Diabetes and Losing 100 Pounds
Donna, a Virta patient for 13 months, shared her journey of reversing her type 2 diabetes and losing 100 pounds. She emphasized the importance of the support she received from her Virta health coach, who helped her simplify the program and understand the science behind the dietary changes. Donna also highlighted the enjoyable nature of the Virta meal plan, which includes plenty of vegetables, protein, and healthy fats.
Darren: A Native American Perspective
Darren, a Native American from the Navajo tribe, shared his experience of losing over 75 pounds in 4 months on the Virta program. He emphasized the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in his community and his desire to make a change. Darren credited his Virta health coach for educating him on the science behind how different foods affect his body and inspiring him to overcome obstacles.
Beverly: Finding the Missing Puzzle Piece
Beverly, an EWTF Local 26 member, had struggled with type 2 diabetes for many years, but finally found success with Virta. She emphasized that Virta provided the missing puzzle piece she needed, teaching her how to cut the right carbs, eat the right portions, and add the right things to her food. Beverly was able to stop taking all diabetes medications and no longer worries about low blood sugar.
Banner|Aetna Partnership: Real-World Results
Banner|Aetna partnered with Virta to offer the diabetes reversal program to its members. The results of this partnership have been remarkable, with participants experiencing significant reductions in A1C levels and weight, as well as a decrease in the need for diabetes-specific medications.
Dr. Robert Groves, chief medical officer and executive vice president for Banner|Aetna, shared that in the first 6 months at Banner, the hemoglobin A1C dropped to 1.4%. The weight loss was around 8.2%, on average for the population, but a quarter of them lost 15% of their body weight or more. Half the patients got off of all of their diabetes-specific medication.
Virta's Approach to Nutritional Ketosis
Virta's approach centers around achieving nutritional ketosis through carbohydrate-restricted therapy and highly individualized care. Nutritional ketosis is a metabolic state in which the body primarily burns fat for fuel, as opposed to sugar and carbs. According to Virta Health CEO and co-founder Sami Inkinen, achieving nutritional ketosis is crucial for the success of the program, as it prevents the dietary program from relying solely on willpower and calorie restriction.
Key Components of the Virta Program
The Virta program incorporates several key components:
- Tailored Nutrition Plans: Virta provides members with customized nutrition plans designed to help them achieve nutritional ketosis.
- Daily Biomarker Tracking: Members track their blood glucose and blood ketone levels multiple times a day to monitor their progress and adjust their diet accordingly.
- Emphasis on Whole Foods: Virta encourages members to consume a moderate amount of protein, five servings of vegetables, and a variety of other whole foods.
- Elimination of Sugar and Starchy Foods: Sugar and starchy foods are largely eliminated from the Virta diet.
- Personalized Support: Virta provides members with access to health coaches and physicians who offer ongoing support and guidance.
Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions
Cost
One of the main concerns raised about Virta is its cost. While the program can be expensive for individuals paying out-of-pocket, many employers and health plans fully cover the cost of the treatment. Additionally, Virta's "at risk" pricing model for insurance companies ensures that they only get paid if the user experiences tangible benefits.
Sustainability
Another concern is the long-term sustainability of the Virta diet. While the program has demonstrated positive results in clinical trials, it's important to note that diabetes can return if lifestyle modifications are not maintained. Virta emphasizes the importance of viewing the program as a lifestyle change, rather than a temporary diet.
Individual Variability
It's also important to recognize that individual results may vary. While many participants have experienced significant weight loss and improvements in A1C levels, others may not see the same level of success. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and adherence to the program can all influence outcomes.