Small dietary changes, significant results – Colin’s story
Colin joined the Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, after being referred to the programme by his GP practice. Like many participants, he was unaware of how some of his everyday food choices could be affecting his health. Through the programme, Colin developed a greater understanding of nutrition, portion control and making healthier choices that fit into his lifestyle.
Our session delivery is targeted to support participants adapt to the lifestyle and diet changes they have made, ensuring they are able to sustain changes and move forwards post programme. Our Health Coaches provide practical advice on healthy eating, food choices, portion control and understanding nutritional information, helping participants make realistic and sustainable changes to reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
“My GP advised that I should do the course, so I decided to give it a try. Before starting the programme, my breakfast would often be a coffee and a Kit Kat. I didn't really think too much about the impact that some of my food choices could be having on my health.”
“Since starting the programme, I now have fruit and a coffee for breakfast instead. It's a simple change, but it's one that has made a real difference to the way I approach food and healthy eating. The programme encouraged me to take a closer look at what I eat on a daily basis and think more carefully about the choices I'm making. One of the biggest things I've learnt is to check food labels. I pay much more attention to nutritional information now and have become far more aware of what I'm putting into my body.”
“My portion sizes have also been cut in half, which has helped me make healthier choices without feeling like I'm missing out. Reducing my chocolate intake has probably been the hardest challenge to overcome, but I've worked hard to make healthier choices and keep myself on track. I've lost weight since joining the programme. It may have been more, but I also have arthritis, so walking long distances isn't always possible for me.”
“Despite these challenges, I've continued to focus on making improvements where I can and have found other ways to support my health through better food choices. We enjoy eating out with friends regularly, but even then, I now look for the healthier options on the menu. The programme has changed the way I think about food and helped me make choices that support my health rather than work against it.”