Publish date: 13 November 2024
The blog has been written by Varsha Khatri, diabetes health and wellness coach working for the Healthier Lifestyle Service in Ealing
With so much conflicting information available, it can be difficult and overwhelming to know what you need to do to improve your wellbeing—especially when managing a chronic condition like Type 2 diabetes.
To mark World Diabetes Day on Thursday 14 November, the Healthier Lifestyle Service is reminding patients with Type 2 diabetes that they are not alone. This year’s theme highlights the importance of wellbeing beyond blood sugar control. A diabetes health and wellness coach can be the ideal partner to help you navigate the path to a healthier and happier you.
Understanding Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes affects how your body regulates blood sugar. Your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin, or your cells become resistant to insulin’s effects. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use glucose (sugar) from food for energy. When blood sugar levels rise too high, it can lead to various health problems.
The power of healthy habits
There is a lot you can do to manage Type 2 diabetes effectively. While medication may be necessary in some cases, a healthy diet and lifestyle are the cornerstones of successful diabetes management.
This is where a diabetes health and wellness coach comes in. A coach can provide personalised guidance and support to help you make positive changes that fit seamlessly into your life.
Importance of self-management
Self-management is key to living well with Type 2 diabetes. Developing habits that support self-management can improve blood sugar control, prevent complications, reduce healthcare costs, and increase independence.
Your personalised approach to healthy eating
We all have different dietary needs and preferences. Much of diabetes management comes down to the food choices you make. Reducing, and where appropriate eliminating, sugar from your diet is a positive change; however, other food choices and habits around food also impact your wellbeing. A coach can discuss healthier eating, from incorporating more fibre and protein into your diet to tackling sugar cravings. A diabetes health and wellness coach can also support you with portion control, healthy food swaps, health education, and mindful eating practices.
Finding joy in movement
Physical activity is another crucial aspect of diabetes management. Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively and lowers blood sugar levels. Going to the gym is one way to include more exercise in your daily routine, but it’s not the only way. A coach can help you discover activities you genuinely enjoy, whether it’s brisk walking, dancing, swimming, or even gardening. The key is to incorporate movement into your routine in a way that feels sustainable and fun.
Stress management
Chronic stress can wreak havoc on blood sugar levels. A coach can equip you with stress-management techniques like relaxation exercises, mindfulness practices, and sleep hygiene tips. They’ll also provide a listening ear, offering support and encouragement as you navigate life’s challenges, helping you find solutions that best suit your individual needs.
Building a support system
Diabetes management is a marathon, not a sprint. A coach can help you build a strong support system, connecting you with resources and diabetes management communities. This network of support can be invaluable in keeping you motivated and accountable on your wellness journey.
The coaching advantage
Here are some key benefits of working with a diabetes health and wellness coach:
- Personalised guidance: A coach tailors their approach to your unique needs, preferences, and goals.
- Accountability and motivation: Regular coaching sessions help you stay on track and motivated.
- Empowerment and self-management skills: A coach equips you with the knowledge and tools to manage your diabetes effectively.
- Improved health outcomes: Working with a coach can lead to better blood sugar control and reduced risk of diabetes-related complications.
Additional tips to improve your health and wellbeing
- Set realistic and achievable goals: Don’t try to change everything at once. Start with small, sustainable changes that you can gradually build upon.
- Celebrate your successes: No matter how big or small, acknowledge your progress.
- Be patient and kind to yourself: There will be setbacks along the way. Don’t get discouraged; just pick yourself up and keep moving forward. Healthy living is a journey, not a pursuit of perfection.
- Work with a diabetes health and wellness coach: Personalised support can help you feel more empowered.
By following these tips and embracing the support of a diabetes health and wellness coach, you can take control of your Type 2 diabetes and live a healthy and fulfilling life.
If you or someone you know has Type 2 diabetes and needs support with self-management, and is an adult living in Ealing or registered with an Ealing GP, they can be referred to our service through SystmOne or by submitting a self-referral form on our website: https://www.westlondon.nhs.uk/diabetescoaching.