Type 2 diabetes is very closely associated with weight, with over 90% of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetics above their ideal weight.
Being overweight can hurt your confidence, and getting back to a healthy weight can seem like a never-ending challenge.
Losing some weight could both prevent you from developing diabetes, or help you to better manage your condition if you have already been diagnosed with diabetes.
First things first – weigh yourself
First off, work out how overweight you actually are. For many people, weighing yourself is the first step to weighing less.
Most people will have an intuitive sense of what a healthy weight is for them, but understanding how much you have to lose can make all the difference in having clear goals.
Talking about weight loss can be tough, particularly if you do not know your doctor or diabetes specialist very well, but understanding weight loss can make all the difference.
Get ready to lose weight and keep motivated
Getting into the right frame of mind to lose weight can be half the battle for some people. Get your head in good shape and allow the body to follow.
What can you do?
Read up as much as you can, including topics such as diabetes and obesity, and diabetes and metabolic syndrome
That way you will understand your risks and what you have to do.
Diabetes prevention starts with losing weight.
First things first, discuss weight loss and an individual program with your health care team.
Take things slowly at first, and take one step at a time.
Which diet will help me to lose weight?
The diet industry is huge, but how do you pick a sensible diet?
Many diets involve reducing or restricting certain foods which makes some diets more or less appropriate for certain types of people.
If you need help choosing which diet to pick, a dietitian will be able to assist you in making a suitable choice.
How does exercise help diabetes and weight loss?
Exercise can help you to lose weight, by building muscle and burning calories. Although this can take time, particularly to physically notice the differences, each activity becomes easier as you become fitter. Always make sure exercise is appropriate to your situation.
Could alternative weight loss therapies help?
Alternative weight loss therapies can be beneficial to help support weight loss. They can help with motivation and can also help you to make appropriate health choices. If in any doubt though, check with your healthcare team whether the therapy is suitable for you.
Should I consider weight loss surgery?
If all else fails, and only if all else fails, weight loss surgery is available as a last resort option.
Weight loss surgery is a serious undertaking but for some people it can be particularly beneficial.
Support to help you shed the weight
Losing weight using physical exercise and diet control can be difficult, but if you persevere it will have a hugely positive effect for the vast majority of diabetics.
