Prevention of complications

What if I am overweight? If you are overweight your body will be less sensitive to the insulin you are producing or injecting. Being inactive and eating in excess of your body’s needs will lead to weight gain. It has been found that a 10% reduction in body weight (if overweight) can:

• reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke,
• lower blood pressure, and
• make you feel better,
• can also improve insulin sensitivity.

Following the healthy eating advice and increasing your physical activity levels will help you to lose weight. If you need more support you can get your GP to refer you to a dietitian.

With treatment of your diabetes, your general health will improve and you should also notice an improvement in your energy levels. It is important that you maintain good control of your diabetes, as continuing high blood glucose levels can cause damage throughout the body. Parts of the body that can be affected are your eyes, kidneys, heart and feet. These problems are discussed in more detail in the ‘Diabetes and Your Body’ section.
Evidence has shown that people with Type 2 diabetes who look after and control their diabetes well, minimise their risk of developing diabetic complications (as shown in the UK Prospective Diabetes Study). Therefore, there are very good reasons to take your diabetes seriously.