Diabetes is one of the biggest health issues facing the UK today with more than 2 million sufferers in the UK. Type 2 diabetes, which is often linked to poor diet and lack of exercise, has seen a huge increase in the last decade alongside the increase in the rate of obesity.
Cases of type 2 diabetes have risen by 69% in the last decade, with a fifth of cases thought to be due to obesity. It’s important not to underestimate the effect diabetes can have on the body. Those with diabetes have an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease and nerve damage.
Dr Jean-Jacques de Gorter, Medical Director at Spire Healthcare said: “Type 2 diabetes is extremely serious and it’s important to look after yourself to reduce the risk of acquiring this condition. If you have developed type 2 diabetes as a result of obesity, then it’s crucial to start following a healthy eating and exercise plan. Recent research shows that significant weight loss is the most important aspect of diabetes management because of its ability to improve blood glucose control.
He continued: “However, if diet and exercise are proving unsuccessful then it may be worth considering weight loss surgery which recent research suggests can in many instances reverse type 2 diabetes resulting from obesity .”