David transforms his health

After being diagnosed with diabetes, David faced the challenge of improving his health. He made changes to his diet and over time those efforts paid off and he’s successfully reversed his diagnosis.

David is sociable, chatty and loves being around people. He loves spending time at his day centre, listening to music or spending time with his friends. At home, he’s supported with day to day tasks like cooking and cleaning, as well as getting out and about.

When David was first told he had diabetes it came as a shock as it meant changes to his everyday life, especially around food. One of the biggest challenges was having to cut out the foods he enjoyed most. Like most of us, those treats were part of his routine and changing that wasn’t easy but David understood that something had to change if he wanted to feel better and stay healthy.

With support from staff, David began making changes. He cut down on sugary foods and reduced foods like bread, pasta, rice and potatoes. He started eating more vegetables and trying alternatives such as sweet potato and cauliflower rice. He also became more mindful of sugary drinks, choosing more water and less sweet options.

David was involved every step of the way, looking at new recipes, getting involved in the cooking and doing the food shop. This helped him understand what he was eating and gave him control over the changes he was making.

Trying new foods had always made David feel a bit anxious but he began to step out of his comfort zone and try new things that he wouldn’t usually. And to his surprise he’s found new foods that he really enjoys.

Over time these changes started to make a difference, David’s health improved but also the way he thought about food changed. He’s now more aware of what he’s eating and has started making healthier choices more naturally.

And the result has been massive – David has reversed his diabetes diagnosis! Even more importantly, he has regained a sense of freedom around food, he is now able to enjoy the foods he loves again in moderation. David says he feels better in himself and he knows that by sticking to these changes, he can stay healthy while still enjoying the things he loves.