Sunil recently completed the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme. We asked him some questions about his experience.

What did you think of the programme?

It was really interesting, easy to follow and it opened my eyes to sugar levels and eating well.

The health coaches took each session one at a time and in each session, they recapped the previous one, so we were able to keep the information fresh in our minds. The coaches were open and fair, gave lots of examples, and asked good leading questions.

What was the hardest part of the programme for you?

The hardest part was reducing my weight. When I first started the programme, I was under radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer. My immune system was down, and I wasn’t doing as much exercise. However, that’s now changed and I am now walking more and eating healthier home-cooked meals.

What was your biggest take away from the programme?

I would say increasing my knowledge about food. The programme has made me a lot more aware of what I eat and where it comes from. Food made at home is much fresher and you know what you’re putting into each dish. I also know which foods contain glucose and fructose.

I tend to eat less red meat and choose white meat and fish options where possible. I now also think about where my meat comes from and what the animal has eaten. I also now have almond milk with cereal instead of cow’s milk.

Did you feel supported throughout the process?

Yes, the coaches were always there for us. They said we could follow up with them if we had any further questions and they were even willing to give us their contact details.

The support groups were also very good. I enjoyed mixing with other people in the programme. We would speak about the sessions and everyone shared helpful tips such as drinking camomile tea to support sleep instead of drinking alcohol.

Do you now feel confident to say that you know how to prevent T2D? 

Yes definitely! I now know that you can prevent type 2 diabetes through the control of food and exercise.

Before the programme, I had very little awareness of type 2 diabetes and its potential impact on me. I am now very conscious of it. I am more conscious about sugars in food and how they affect your insulin levels.

I now feel confident in knowing how to make healthier food choices and that as you get older, it’s important to keep moving so I now go for walks most days.

Would you recommend this programme to others?

I would encourage everyone to go on the programme so that they can become enlightened about food. Especially youngsters who seem to work late, eat ready meals, and not get enough sleep. Everyone would benefit from this programme.