Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic Weight gain is a side effect of many psychiatric drugs and it is possible that the weight gain would have contributed to your diagnosis of diabetes. For weight loss to occur the energy input to the body must be less than the energy ouput. This can be done either by reducing the energy or calories in food or drink or increasing the energy output through exercise. It is easier to lose weight by adjusting diet than by exercise because of the amount of activity required to obtain a significant difference. Exercise is important in general and heart fitness and in keeping the weight off. There are two main types of diet: low fat low calorie diet and low carbohydrate diet. You can choose which one is best for you. In both diets, the use of fruit drinks and sodas would be necessary. Fat has alot of calories and in reducing fat intake, calorie intake is lowered. In the low fat diet you would use low fat cheeses, milks , dresssings etc. Increase the use of vegetables and fruits to 5 servings a day. Avoid frying and fat on meats. In low carb diets , you would decrease your use of carbohydrates because they result in fat storage (insulin is released when the carbohydrates are used and this insulin inhibits fat breakdown). Carbohydrates are high in breads/biscuits/breakfast cereal/rice and pasta. I hope this helps