One slimmer woman from Ipswich shared how weight loss dramatically improved her health – and helped reverse her type 2 diabetes.
Katie Case, 69, shared her experience to inspire others to lose weight – although it may be more difficult for many during lockdown when weight loss groups can’t meet in person.
Ms. Case, a member of a Slimming World group on Landseer Road, said, “About 15 years ago I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I was prescribed medication to control it. My blood sugar levels were well above normal.
Katie case from Ipswich before her weight loss
– Photo credit: Katie Case
“I lost almost 1.5 stones, but couldn’t hold it. The weight went back up and my blood sugar went up and my medication went up.”
The retired nurse manager, originally from Falkirk and having worked for care organizations in Ipswich and Diss, joined Slimming World in 2017.
She said, “My husband Ken recently had a health scare – luckily it was just a scare and he is absolutely fine, but you think about what’s important in life.
“Another reason was that I also hated what I saw in the mirror.”
Her blood sugar began to drop as her weight dropped, and she reached her goal in August 2018 – and managed to stay there.
“I have had normal blood sugar levels for over two years and no longer need medication to control my diabetes,” she said.
Ms. Case said, “I was 11 stone 11 pounds initially and went down to 9st 2 pounds. I was also size 18 and that got a little tight and went down three dress sizes to one size 12.”
In addition to improving her diabetes, she no longer had back pain or needed inhalers for respiratory distress caused by lung scars from TB when she was only four years old.
Her blood pressure and cholesterol levels are also down to normal, and she said, “I have increased energy levels, flexibility, and endurance.”
She added, “My biggest problem is snacking. I can still snack, but I’ve swapped the chocolate, chips, and cookies for fruit, cold meats, and low-fat options for chips or popcorn. I’m trying to plan what I have each day.” going to avoid overeating. “
Ms. Case said the Covid-19 pandemic made it all the more clear how important it is for people to have a healthy weight, given that obesity is a risk factor for developing serious illness with the virus, which is why she wants to encourage others to lose weight.
Saluting advisor Rachel Bachelor, who leads the group she participates in, she added, “From day one there has been great support, advice and empathy from my colleagues.”
She added, “We can’t meet at the moment due to lockdown, but we have Zoom sessions.”
