Weight loss and Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is very closely associated with weight. Over 90% of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetics are above their ideal weight, which is where Scottish Slimmers can help.
Being overweight can affect your confidence and many aspects of your health and wellbeing. Getting back to a healthy weight can seem like a challenge, but with Scottish Slimmers it doesn't need to be! Losing some weight could prevent you from developing diabetes, or if you have already been diagnosed with diabetes, help you to better manage your condition.
Diabetes comes with many associated health problems. One of those problems is a constant battle with blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels and heart health, not to mention developing a negative relationship with food. But did you know that by losing weight you could increase your chances of living longer and perhaps lowering of your medication?
Currently, health professionals advise that there is no special diet advice for people with diabetes. However many diabetics focus on the carbohydrate content of their meals and prefer a low-carb diet for tight blood glucose level control.
The NHS (and Diabetes UK) recommend a healthy, balanced diet that is low in fat, sugar and salt and contain a high level of fresh fruit and vegetables. Scottish Slimmers Eating Plans are based on healthy, nutritious and comply with the NHS advice.
What does the NHS advise?
- Eat plenty of starchy carbohydrates with a low glycemic index (low GI)
- Increase the amount of fibre in your diet
- Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables - at least 5 portions per day
- Cut down on fat and saturated fat in particular
- Choose foods with unsaturated fat instead - such as vegetable oils, reduced fat spreads, oily fish and avocados
- Choose low-fat dairy products
- Choose lean meat - such as skinless chicken
- Avoid fatty or processed meat
- Eat fish at least twice a week and ensure you have oily fish at least once a week
- Eggs and beans are other good sources of protein
- Cook food by grilling, baking, poaching or steaming instead of frying or roasting
- Avoid fatty or sugary snacks - such as crisps, cakes, biscuits and pastries
- Eat snacks such as fruit, unsalted nuts and low-fat yoghurts
- Cut down on sugar
- Eat less salt - have less than 6g of salt (2.4g of sodium) per day
- Cut down on alcohol
Following a Scottish Slimmers Eating Plan can keep your blood sugar levels more stable, benefitting your overall mood and general health. Scottish Slimmers Eating Plans are flexible enough to adapt to your medication and your own personal needs. Losing weight can be difficult without support so join a Scottish Slimmers class* and stay motivated week after week.
*When undertaking any type of new diet or fitness plan as a diabetic or someone with health concerns, speak to your doctor or a specialised dietician as a precaution.
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