A new lifestyle – Anne’s story

Anne was referred to Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme following an unexpected diagnosis from a routine check-up with her GP. Hear what changes she made, and how she implemented those into her lifestyle to achieve positive results and reduce her blood glucose to a safer level.

“I've always been a healthy eater and tried to exercise regularly, so I was disappointed when my blood results showed a glucose level in the pre-diabetic zone,” said Anne.

Getting started – during the first session, participants will meet their Health and Wellbeing Coach, and their group, who will remain with them throughout the programme. Throughout the programme, our Health Coaches will teach their group how to make the necessary changes, sustain those changes and implement this into their lifestyles for the future.

“I used to have a huge dollop of syrup on my morning porridge! However, since attending the sessions, I’ve now swapped that for a teaspoon of stevia sweetener and a variety of berries. Now it's made with half semi skimmed milk and half water and tastes nearly as delicious! I’ve since joined the gym also and enjoy yoga, aerobics and weight training classes every week.”

Our group sessions are NHS approved and run for a duration of 40 weeks. Each session consists of ongoing support focusing on nutrition and activity guidance and supports participants in making simple lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

“I've lost a few kilograms (although I didn't need to) and my blood sugar is now in the normal zone. I think my general fitness has improved and I'm sleeping a lot better. It has made me more aware of the impact of different foods on the body and the detrimental effect of high glucose levels in the blood. It educated me how to make better food choices and the importance of regular exercise.”