Eligible volunteers are randomly assigned to a treatment group consisting of a pre-packaged, portion controlled meal plan (PCD) or to a control group that consists of a combination diabetes support and education (DSE) program/pre-packaged, portion controlled meal plan (PCD) cross-over group. Treatment assignments are unmasked. At the end of 24 weeks the treatment group will have completed 18 group sessions and the control group will have completed 15 group sessions. The PCD program is aimed at achieving and maintaining a decrease in weight from 1-24 weeks. Combination DSE/PCD program is aimed at achieving and maintaining a decrease in weight from weeks 13-24. A Certified Diabetes Educator will review the effects of diet and weight loss, exercise, and medications on blood glucose levels among all participants at the first group meeting before any changes in dietary intake or exercise are prescribed. Participants will be counseled on strategies to prevent hypoglycemia. In addition the causes, symptoms and treatment of hypoglycemia will be reviewed including when to contact their health care provider.