'Small changes count with diabetes'
Living with diabetes
I had lots of type 2 diabetes symptoms but didn't realise it. I was exhausted all the time, having hot flushes, and getting up to go to the loo quite a lot during the night. In 2004, I had a urine sample tested by a nurse, and she discovered I had extremely high sugar levels.
At the time, I fell just within the clinically obese category. I was about a size 22, even though I went on walking holidays and ate quite well. I was told that if I didn't get my diabetes under control, major complications could include strokes and heart attacks.
My doctor just told me to watch my sugar intake and play squash. I know so much more now, and I'd urge anyone newly diagnosed with diabetes to join support groups.
Now I stick to a low-GI diet, one that aims to keep my blood sugar steady. But all diabetics have individual responses to certain foods. For example, I was advised to eat oatmeal but discovered it sent my blood sugar levels sky-high.
You can buy a blood sugar meter from the chemist that allows you to do your own food testing at home.
Exercise is a really important form of diabetes treatment, but you don't have to play squash! A gentle stroll an hour after dinner can work wonders. I've worked up to doing karate twice a week. Find something you enjoy doing.
The weight has dropped off. I'm a size 14 now. At my latest MOT, I found out my sugar levels are well under control. The phrase 'small changes make big differences' is very true where diabetes is concerned.
Nicola Moxey, 46, Ipswich, Suffolk
For more information and advice, visit www.diabetes.org.uk
Average rating:
Sue Calvo, about 1 year
I enjoyed this article, it's friendly, easy to read, and has lots of information. I found it interesting to hear about the individual responses to certain foods, and that buying a blood sugar meter is very helpful. Thank you
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