A type 2 diabetes diagnosis acts as a frightening wake up call for someone who is overweight, as carrying extra weight can worsen or even cause type 2 diabetes. And this is just what happened when Madeleine was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Desperate to get her health on track Madeleine joined the Diabetes plan. Losing weight did improve Madeleine’s health, but more than that, Madeleine got a new lease of life.

Madeleine spoke to us about the difference the Diabetes plan made to her…

What was your turning point?

When I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, I was told to loose weight for my blood sugar levels. I looked at Tesco Diets and decided to give it a try. Having diabetes was very frightening. The diet was easy to follow and felt like a friend because all of the hard work was done for me.

Was your weight causing you any problems?

I hated going to the shops to buy clothes and would get most from catalogues, so I could try them on at home and return them when they didn’t fit. I had no energy and came home from work exhausted. At home I wore track suit bottoms and baggy tops, because my clothes always were so tight. I believed everyone else looked better than me.

Tell us about your diet?

I loved eating cakes, pastries, pasties, chocolate and take aways. I now eat lots of vegetables and fruit. I used to think that I ate small portions, but since starting the plan I know I was eating enough for 2. The plan has also changed my way of thinking about food. I realise when I am full and don’t pick anymore.

The Diabetes plan has been my saviour. By following the plan I have lost weight, controlled my sugar levels and saved money on food
Picture of Madeleine at the photoshoot

Madeleine at the photo shoot

How has your routine changed since losing weight?

In the mornings I get up and do some sit ups before my bath. The day is much the same as I work, however I do park my car further away and walk the extra bit. I often use the stairs at work instead of the lift.

Has exercise played any part in helping you to lose weight?

I took part in Race for Life last year, something I couldn’t have done before. As the weight has come off I have the confidence to swim and dance. For my birthday my children bought me a wii to help with my exercise.

How has your day to day life changed since losing weight?

I now have a lot of energy, sometimes too much. I am able to run around after my grandchildren. Food is no longer a comfort thing, I eat at meal times and never in between. I know I can have an occasional treat, but on the whole I don’t feel the need. On a recent holiday I had loads of room on the airplane in a normal seat, so I saved money on not having to purchase extra room seat. I am now a lot happier in myself and look forward to a better future. I may be 60 in age, but 60 is the new 40 for me.

You followed the Diabetes plan, did you enjoy it?

The Diabetes plan has been my saviour. By following the plan I have lost weight, controlled my sugar levels and saved money on food. The plan also showed me how to prepare the meals, so nothing could be simpler. It never felt like a diet, so that helped psychologically. Whilst I know I will always be diabetic, I can control it now which hopefully means I won’t suffer the horrible side effects some diabetics have.

Have you any other advice you want to give?

I wish health professionals would recommend Tesco Diets as I see so many people with diabetes on medication and still eating the wrong foods. Give it a try, all you’ve got to lose is weight.