Exactly a year ago, at the age of 69, I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. I knew I was overweight- and had been for many years - but this came as a complete shock. I’d had none of the usual signs, didn’t have a sweet tooth and had not been classed as pre-diabetic. It was only because I’d gone to the GP for a regular check-up that we found my blood sugars, cholesterol, blood pressure and BMI were all worryingly high. I had type 2 diabetes…
Action was needed and, although I was offered medication, I was keen to try and tackle the problem myself. It was clear I would need to make changes to my diet and increase daily exercising. I was on a mission!
There is a raft of information out there but the best source for help is the Diabetes UK website. Here I found loads of hints and tips, guidance and information plus brilliant recipes for low salt, low sugar, low fat dishes which are incredibly delicious. My meals repertoire increased tenfold!
But I knew that a change in diet wasn’t going to be enough - I needed to increase my daily exercise. I’m not one for going to the gym. I mainly like to walk, which for me is my best way to keep fit, but it’s not always possible to get out. I searched the internet for walking exercises on YouTube and discovered “Yes2Next”. It has a wide range of videos for all ages but specifically seniors. I set aside time to do around 30 minutes every day - and, incredibly, really enjoyed it.
I’ve had excellent care and support throughout the year, been monitored regularly, attended a self help session, had all the necessary screenings. But I’ve also kept a weekly record of my weight and size loss and knew that I was on the right track. At my last review, my weight, cholesterol levels and blood pressure were all way down, my blood sugars were 39 and I am officially no longer diabetic…
My GP was delighted I’d been able to get myself into remission, saying something like “I don’t know what you’ve done but you should bottle it and share it with others” So I’m here to share my experience and hope it helps others in some small way.
Action was needed and, although I was offered medication, I was keen to try and tackle the problem myself. It was clear I would need to make changes to my diet and increase daily exercising. I was on a mission!
There is a raft of information out there but the best source for help is the Diabetes UK website. Here I found loads of hints and tips, guidance and information plus brilliant recipes for low salt, low sugar, low fat dishes which are incredibly delicious. My meals repertoire increased tenfold!
But I knew that a change in diet wasn’t going to be enough - I needed to increase my daily exercise. I’m not one for going to the gym. I mainly like to walk, which for me is my best way to keep fit, but it’s not always possible to get out. I searched the internet for walking exercises on YouTube and discovered “Yes2Next”. It has a wide range of videos for all ages but specifically seniors. I set aside time to do around 30 minutes every day - and, incredibly, really enjoyed it.
I’ve had excellent care and support throughout the year, been monitored regularly, attended a self help session, had all the necessary screenings. But I’ve also kept a weekly record of my weight and size loss and knew that I was on the right track. At my last review, my weight, cholesterol levels and blood pressure were all way down, my blood sugars were 39 and I am officially no longer diabetic…
My GP was delighted I’d been able to get myself into remission, saying something like “I don’t know what you’ve done but you should bottle it and share it with others” So I’m here to share my experience and hope it helps others in some small way.
