This World Diabetes Day, we’re proud to share research which shows that more than half of the Slimming World members with type 2 diabetes surveyed were able to reverse their condition after losing weight.
We know being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes can be daunting and may leave many people worried about having to make drastic changes to their diet and lifestyle. If you, or someone you love, is in this position, we can help. We’re here to support our members in eating healthily, without ever feeling hungry or deprived – and we’ve been delighted to see many of the members who took part in our study reporting a raft of health-related benefits.
MORE ON THE BLOG: Study reveals that type 2 diabetes can be reversed by losing weight
One person who knows better than most about the health benefits losing weight can bring is Faith Roots. She lost 8st to help reverse the symptoms of type 2 diabetes – and now she’s found a special someone to share her healthy lifestyle with.
At almost 18st, my confidence was non-existent. I’d be the one sat in the corner, feeling uncomfortable in my size 26 clothes and too nervous to talk to anyone. After losing 8st, I’ve gone from barely being able to walk, to running half-marathons. I’m also in a relationship, something I never thought would happen. Losing weight gave me the confidence I needed, and it all started with a phone call…
It was February 2017 and I’d just got back from walking the dogs when the phone rang. I was so exhausted, I had to sit down to answer it. I’d been out less than 10 minutes, but I was breathless and my back was aching. It was my daughter-in-law calling to ask if I’d go with her to her local Slimming World group, as she didn’t want to go alone. I was happy to support her and we joined together that night.
I didn’t feel too confident about it. I’d joined weight loss groups before and as soon as I stopped going, I’d return to my old habits and the weight would go back on.
Struggling to walk
I’d struggled with my weight my entire adult life. I had type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and severe back pain. I also had collapsed ankles because my extra weight had weakened the tendons and ligaments in my feet, making it painful to walk or even stand. I was taking three tablets a day for my diabetes and I just had no energy. I knew I needed to do something…
MORE ON THE BLOG: Fruit and veg can help lower your risk of type 2 diabetes
On my first night at group, I was apprehensive, and I almost gave up the following week as I’d only lost half a pound. Then I decided I wouldn’t be beaten. I started cooking from scratch, inspired by the ideas shared in group, and I soon began to see results. I love making a Slimming World Sunday roast, it’s so easy!
My Consultant and the other group members kept me motivated, and they still do. I feel like part of a family. That’s what keeps me going to group, because I know they’re always there to help me maintain my new healthy weight.
Running my way fit
I lost 8st in just over 14 months, and my health has improved dramatically. My diabetes is in remission and I don’t need medication for it now. My blood pressure is normal, my cholesterol is no longer high, and my back pain has disappeared.
I have so much more energy, too. I’ve taken up Park Runs, and before lockdown I danced and did exercise classes. I even insisted on doing my weekly 5K run on the morning of my daughter’s wedding! Throughout the first lockdown, I ran at least 5K every day – and once I ran a half-marathon!
One of the best reactions to my weight loss came from my diabetes nurse. She looked at my chart, then looked at me and said, “You’ve lost 8st!” and started dancing around the room.
I’ve just had the results of my long-term blood sugar test, and it’s been the same for six months now. If it stays the same for the next six months, I’ll get a diagnosis of complete remission, meaning I’ll no longer have diabetes. The nurse who gave me the results was keen to make sure I didn’t underestimate what I’ve achieved. It’s made me feel determined to keep the weight off.
Now I have the confidence to talk to anyone – and I’ve even found love after being single for 23 years! I’ve finally discovered my zest for life.
MORE ON THE BLOG:
I’ve reversed my type 2 diabetes
I was told I may not live to see Christmas
I didn’t even know I’d had a stroke
I quit smoking while losing 10st
We’re delighted to be sharing Faith’s inspirational story to mark World Diabetes Day. If you’d like to learn more, you can find our important research into how Slimming World can help members with type 2 diabetes here.
If you’d like to join Slimming World, your local Consultant will be happy to book your place in group – or you can become part of our friendly community at Slimming World Online.
Special offer for members
If you’re already a member of a Slimming World group, we have a special Countdown offer for you: commit to a six-week Countdown course before 21st November 2020 and you’ll get your sixth week FREE plus a FREE copy of our Comfort Collection recipe book when you get back to your real-life group.