Confusion to confidence - Ivy’s story
Ivy joined the Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme after receiving a HbA1c that placed her in the prediabetic range. Wanting to improve her long-term health, she was referred to understand what changes would help her reduce her risk and feel more in control of her wellbeing.
“When I first joined the programme, I knew my HbA1c reading of 43 mmol/mol meant I needed to take action. It was worrying to see myself move into the pre diabetic range, and I wanted to do something about it before it got any worse. That’s what encouraged me to start my journey with Healthier You.”
Eating healthily and completing regular physical activity helps to not only lose any weight gained during pregnancy but can also lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The Healthier You NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme will help women who have had a diagnosis of gestational diabetes to achieve this.
“To reduce my risk, I began following the Diabetes Programme workbook and found it incredibly helpful. I learned how to enjoy the foods I love—like carbs—but in healthier amounts, so I don’t feel like I’m missing out. I also made a commitment to build more movement into my day, and now I walk for 25 minutes on my way to work every day. It’s become a routine I actually look forward to.”
“Since joining the programme, I’ve noticed a real boost in my energy levels. I feel more awake, more positive, and more capable of getting through the day. That improvement alone has been a big motivator for me to keep going.”
“The programme has had a huge impact on my life. I’ve gained so much knowledge about what foods help keep my blood sugar stable, and I feel more confident making decisions about what I eat. The biggest benefits for me have been improving my eating habits, staying more active, and feeling much calmer about my health. I now have peace of mind, I feel more relaxed, and I feel confident that I’m taking the right steps for my future.”
“Healthier You has shown me that small, consistent changes can make a big difference—and I’m proud of the progress I’ve made.”