My diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes happened 12 years ago, at the age of 80.

I was prescribed Metformin and Gliclazide, and at the same time, I ceased adding sugar to tea, coffee, and breakfast cereal. Since, I’ve had regular blood tests as well as foot and retina examinations and, so far, with the changes that I have made, my results have remained within acceptable limits.

Indeed, at my last diabetes review, my Gliclazide dose was halved. I felt upbeat when I heard the news as it meant, that in my case, the diabetes was not severe and did not require more drastic dietary changes.

I do, however, want to increase the amount of fibre in my diet. I’m now living on my own, having to get used to doing my own cooking; so need to find shopping packs and recipes appropriate for one person, to avoid food waste.

I want to reduce my weight and improve my breathing. However, now that I am in my 90s, I am not so good at walking and better management of my diet offers me more hope than thinking of extra exercise.

If I could give my younger self a piece of advice, it would be to get bathroom scales and keep weight records, especially in times when your lifestyle changes, e.g. on leaving home, on marriage etc.

With that being said, if I were to offer a piece of advice for someone who has just been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, it’s not the end of the world; learn about the condition, gradually work out what diet and exercise regime will work for you.