Going green works wonders

Sport Northland is hailing the success of a Kaitaia man in improving his health as evidence that the Green Prescription (GRx) process works.

Seventy-seven-year-old John Somerville, who was referred to Green Prescription in December, had been diagnosed as pre-diabetic. Always an active man, he set out to correct that, cutting most of the carbohydrates from his diet to lower his blood sugar levels.

While he did stabilise his blood sugars, he also lost too much weight, including some muscle.

Kerrin Taylor, John's GRx support person, addressed that by helping him plan an exercise regime that would restore his muscle, and giving information on foods that would help him retain his weight without significantly increasing his blood sugars.

John said he had added healthy fats such as nuts, avocados and oily fish to his diet, and slowly re-introduced healthy carbohydrates such as home-made wholegrain bread, potatoes, rice and fruit. He was still limiting his portions of those foods, and had given up sugar completely.

He was also now into strength exercises as well as walking, cycling and gardening. And he's making use of the gym membership he won when he completed the Tane Tryathlon.

"I was always active, but GRx showed me how to focus my exercises on different parts of my body that I was not aware of," he said.

As well as GRx, John also appreciated the support of his GP, Dr Norma Nehrens, and diabetes nurse, Melissa Petersen, from Te Whare Hauora.

His weight was now stable, he added, he felt stronger and more energetic, and his blood sugar levels are much better. And what advice would he give to someone considering becoming more active?

"Older people need to stay active. Get your heart rate up, sweat a little. If you want to quit, keep going a bit longer, grit your teeth, talk to yourself and don't give up," he said.

Anyone who would like to know more is welcome to contact the Green Prescription team at Sport Northland on 0800 ACTIVE (0800 228-483).