Weight loss spreads health message

Susie Barlow lost 30kg by using a programme that targets diabetes. Photo / Supplied

Susie Barlow knew she had to lose weight when she was handed a seatbelt extension on an aeroplane.

So the Whangarei occupational nurse did something about it and today will be one of 50 success stories being showcased at the relaunch of a programme in Tauranga targeting type 2 diabetes. Barlow lost 30kg over two years and has kept if off.

Her story is being used by Eat for Keeps founder Leigh Elder, pictured with Barlow above right, who says government predictions show 270,000 people have diabetes and the number at risk could run to 2 million by 2028.

Health authorities tend to play an "ambulance at the bottom of the cliff" role and aren't proactive enough on prevention, he says.

Hundreds of Kiwis have lost weight with Eat for Keeps during the past eight years and the aim of getting 50 people together today is to attract more followers.

"It's a great way to make a compelling statement that success in this area is possible with some simple permanent lifestyle changes."

Diabetes is caused by too much glucose in the blood over long periods. Excess glucose turns to fat, which contributes to vascular disease and has been linked to cancer and blindness.

Elder says the key to prevention is to eat more "sustaining foods" - such as dense wholegrain breads, meat, fish, nuts and seeds - which stop you feeling hungry and supply a steady amount of glucose.

Barlow, 52, says she now feels ill if she isn't on the programme. She's a picture of health and is about to do the Kerikeri half-marathon.

The Eat for Keeps website offers free advice to help tackle the disease.


eatforkeeps.com