Reclaiming health and happiness - Aliya’s story
After experiencing a long period of ill health, Aliya found her physical and emotional wellbeing steadily declining. Her weight had reached its highest point, her energy and motivation were low, and sciatica pain made movement increasingly difficult. A routine NHS Health Check revealed she was prediabetic and at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and so, that she was referred over to the Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.
“Before joining the Healthier You programme, life had become increasingly difficult. After experiencing failed IVF pregnancies, hormonal changes and unmanaged thyroid issues, I found myself inactive for almost two years. My weight had risen to 72kg—my highest ever—and the combination of low mood, fatigue, and sciatica pain left me feeling stuck. Even simple daily tasks felt harder, and the thought of making changes felt overwhelming. It wasn’t until my NHS Health Check revealed that I was pre-diabetic that I realised something had to change. That moment was the turning point that led me to join the digital programme.”
You can have the option of face-to-face, digital or remote. Through the digital pathway, participants will have access to the Second Nature app to take part in the programme on their phone. The app will support you through a series of behaviour change ideas with access to a support group and Health Coach over a nine-month course.
“The digital format was exactly what I needed. As a fulltime employee, mum, and wife, the flexibility of learning at my own pace meant everything. I could explore courses privately, in my own space, without the pressure of group discussions. Gradually, I started to rebuild healthy routines—learning about sleep, establishing consistency, going to the gym, joining classes, and sharing my healthy meal ideas.
The biggest transformation, though, came from getting my family involved. As a South Asian family, food and culture are deeply connected, but together we made small, conscious changes: more fruit and veg, fewer carbs, less curry and chapattis, no fizzy drinks, and weekly meal prep. These shifts didn’t just improve my health—they helped my family understand and support my thyroid condition and energy levels.”
“Over 12 months, I lost 20kg and reversed my prediabetes. I now go to the gym three times a week, eat balanced meals, and feel more in control of my wellbeing. My clothes size is back to a 10, my sciatica has eased thanks to increased movement and Pilates, and I feel stronger and more confident than I have in years. I still use the Second Nature app, along with StepUp and Fitbit, to stay motivated. I’m also kinder to myself—allowing rest on difficult days and still enjoying treats and meals out with my family.”
The Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme is a free programme designed to help people at risk of Type 2 diabetes make lasting lifestyle changes. Through group sessions, expert guidance, and practical tools, participants learn how to improve their diet, increase physical activity, and manage weight. The programme empowers individuals to take control of their health and reduce their risk of developing diabetes in a supportive and informative environment.
“Healthier You has completely changed my outlook on life. I’ve learned how my mind and body work, what triggers difficult periods, and how to stay healthy in a way that feels sustainable. The gym is no longer a chore—it’s something I genuinely enjoy, with classes like HIIT, Fitball, Pilates, dance, and Spin becoming part of my weekly routine. I feel positive, active, and excited about the future. I’m planning adventures with my family, including treks and even Snowdonia, and I’ve started running on Sunday mornings—something I would never have imagined a year ago.”
“Most importantly, I feel present again: for myself, my family, and the life I want to live. Healthier You gave me the knowledge, tools, and confidence to take my health back—and it has transformed every part of my life.”