Natural disasters such as bushfires, floods, storms, and cyclones can create challenges for people living with diabetes.

These emergencies can create serious health risks, making preparation essential for those who rely on insulin, medication, or medical devices to maintain stable blood glucose levels.

Preparing a well-thought-out plan and being ready for natural disasters can reduce the likelihood of diabetes-related emergencies and life-threatening situations.

The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) provides valuable resources to help people living with diabetes to be prepared. It’s a dedicated natural disaster information page offering guidance on planning and managing diabetes during an emergency (NDSS Natural Disasters).

Creating a Diabetes Emergency Plan

The ‘My Diabetes Plan for Natural Disasters’ is a comprehensive guide designed to help individuals with diabetes prepare for emergencies. It includes a checklist of essential items for a diabetes emergency kit, a space to record personal details, important contact information, and a list of current medications. Keeping this plan alongside an up-to-date emergency kit in a secure location is crucial. Download the plan here: My Diabetes Plan for Natural Disasters.

What to include in a Diabetes Emergency Kit

A well-prepared diabetes emergency kit should contain essential supplies, including:

• Blood glucose monitoring equipment and extra batteries
• Insulin, oral medications, and necessary prescriptions
• Non-perishable food and water supplies
• Glucose tablets or other quick-acting hypoglycaemia treatments such as jellybeans or cans of soft drink
• A list of emergency contacts, including healthcare providers
• Medical identification and important documents

Also ensuring cold storage is available if required (e.g. an eski, cool wallet, or generator) is important for any medications that need to be kept cold.

The ‘My Diabetes Plan’ is also available in many languages, including Arabic, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Greek, Hindi, Italian, Turkish, and Vietnamese.

Supporting health professionals and emergency services

Healthcare providers and emergency services play a crucial role in helping people with diabetes during disasters. The NDSS website offers tailored resources for these professionals, including four educational videos on how to support individuals with diabetes before, during, and after an emergency.

These videos cover:

• The impact of natural disasters on diabetes management
• How to help people prepare for a disaster
• How to use the ‘My Diabetes Plan’ effectively
• Essential resources for diabetes management in emergencies

For more information, visit the NDSS website and access resources for individuals, healthcare professionals, emergency services, and local councils.

Being prepared can make a significant difference in safeguarding health and well-being during a crisis.

Take action now and ensure that you, or your loved ones living with diabetes, are ready for any emergency.

Tasmania’s much-anticipated Pollie Pedal 2025 officially launched today, with riders embarking from Hagley Farm School in Launceston.

Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC, Governor of Tasmania, Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, and Diabetes Australia Chief Operating Officer Craig Sedgman joined students and supporters to celebrate the event’s impact in raising funds and awareness for diabetes.

The inspiring three-day cycling event, which runs from February 28 to March 2, will see cyclists traverse over 300km of Tasmania’s stunning landscape, riding to support the 88,000 Tasmanians living with diabetes and prediabetes.

For Deputy Premier Barnett, an old boy of Hagley Farm School who lives with type 1 diabetes and takes part in Pollie Pedal every year, the event is a personal and community milestone.

Before he started cycling, Deputy Premier Barnett was delighted to meet Hagley Farm School Year 4 student Charlie Medwin and his parents, Karissa and Jesse. Charlie has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in April last year, and was a special representative of the diabetes community at the Pollie Pedal launch this morning.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Barnett emphasized the event’s importance beyond the cycling challenge.

“Pollie Pedal is about resilience, community, and the determination to make a difference. As someone who manages type 1 diabetes every day, I understand the significance of support, education, and research in changing lives,” Mr Barnett said.

“This ride is a powerful way to unite Tasmanians in our mission to reduce the impact of diabetes. Every turn of the pedals represents hope for those living with this condition. Whether you ride, donate, or cheer from the sidelines, your contribution matters.”

Diabetes Australia COO Craig Sedgman praised the Tasmanian community’s enduring commitment to the cause.

“Pollie Pedal is more than a fundraising event. It’s a movement of people coming together to drive change and create a healthier future,” Mr Sedgman said.

“We know that diabetes affects around two million Australians, and the numbers are rising. But through initiatives like Pollie Pedal, we can provide vital programs, invest in prevention, and support those already living with diabetes.

“Worryingly, rates of diabetes have increased by 32% nationally over the past decade.

“We need urgent action to stem the tide of this epidemic and support people who are living with diabetes. Community events like Pollie Pedal support us to do that important work,” he said.

Since its inception in 2006, Pollie Pedal has raised over $850,000, funding essential diabetes programs and research. The 2025 ride will take cyclists through Tasmania’s breathtaking Meander and Tamar Valleys, passing through seaside towns, rolling farmlands, and vibrant rural communities.

Pollie Pedal is open to cyclists of all abilities. Whether riding solo or forming a team, participants will not only experience Tasmania’s stunning backroads but also make a lasting impact on diabetes awareness and support.

Make a difference
To donate or learn more, visit: Pollie Pedal 2025 or email PolliePedal@diabetesaustralia.com.au.

Fast Facts about Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025:

• Dates: February 28 – March 2, 2025
• Who can participate? Cyclists of all skill levels
• Funds raised since 2006: Over $850,000
• Cause: Supporting Tasmanians living with diabetes and funding prevention efforts

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

With today’s announcement that Diabetes Victoria has taken the decision to resign as a member of Diabetes Australia, the Diabetes Australia director nominated by Diabetes Victoria will leave the Diabetes Australia Board.

Diabetes Australia Chair, Andrew Rutherford, acknowledged director Kathryn Arndt’s service.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Kathryn Arndt for her diligence and commitment in her 18 months as a director of Diabetes Australia. We wish her well for the future.”

In a related change, Diabetes Victoria CEO Glen Noonan has left the Board of Diabetes Australia’s subsidiary Diabetes Australia Research Limited. Diabetes Australia’s Chair also extends the Board’s thanks for Mr Noonan’s service.

Diabetes Victoria will cease to be a member of Diabetes Australia from 31 March 2025.

Diabetes Australia will continue its role as the national peak body including overseeing the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS). Diabetes Victoria will continue to operate as the Victorian peak body and NDSS state agent.

Diabetes Australia will continue to work with Diabetes Victoria as it does with other state-based diabetes organisations.

The change in membership will not impact any existing state-based service delivery or local state-based support programs provided to people living with diabetes.

Australians will continue to benefit from a nationally delivered, consistent and equitable access model from Diabetes Australia, alongside the community-based delivery that state-based organisations like Diabetes Victoria have excelled at.

Diabetes Australia Chair, Mr Rutherford, said: “This change allows Diabetes Australia and Diabetes Victoria to focus on their own strategic priorities and individual missions. Diabetes Australia will continue to focus on working with stakeholders across the country to deliver equal access for Australians living with or at risk of diabetes, irrespective of their location or socio-economic circumstances.”

Diabetes Victoria President, Mr Loveridge, said: “Our commitment to improving the lives of people affected by diabetes is stronger than ever. We will continue our outstanding work in relation to the prevention of diabetes in Victoria, and support, education, and care of those affected by diabetes across the state.”

Diabetes Australia has welcomed commitments from both Labor and the Coalition to invest in more bulk billed GP visits.  

With Australia in the midst of a diabetes epidemic, greater access to primary care is necessary to support diabetes screening, as well as management, in order to avoid complications such as heart and kidney disease.  

The announcements mean GP bulk billing incentives will be expanded to all Australians and an additional new incentive payment will be established for practices that bulk bill every patient. 

With more than two million Australians living with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, the condition is the cause of a growing crisis costing the health system $3.4 billion annually. 

The majority of diabetes management and review for type 2 diabetes occurs in the primary care setting, so investments that make it easier for people to access that care are welcome. 

In the lead up to the Federal Election, Diabetes Australia is also calling on both sides of politics to commit to funding equitable access to diabetes technologies. 

Expanding subsidies for insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring devices will ensure Australians living with all types of diabetes have access to the technology they need to live well.  

Diabetes Australia is urging the Federal Government and the Opposition to commit $200 million over four years to expand subsidised access to diabetes technologies for those who would benefit the most.    

Diabetes Australia has this week extended its gratitude to retiring Federal MPs Graham Perrett and Rowan Ramsey for their tireless advocacy and commitment to the diabetes community in the Australian Parliament.  

As co-chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Diabetes group, they played a critical role in advancing diabetes awareness, policy, and access to life-changing technology for people living with diabetes. 

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain commended both MPs for their leadership and dedication to improving the lives of Australians affected by diabetes. 

“Graham Perrett and Rowan Ramsey have been fearless and passionate champions for the diabetes community. Their bipartisan support for the sector has helped drive important initiatives, including securing greater access to diabetes technology such as Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) for people living with type 1 diabetes.  

“For nearly a decade, they demonstrated their commitment to reducing the burden of diabetes. Their collaboration shows what can be achieved when people come together with the common goal of improving the health of all Australians. 

“Their work has made a real and lasting impact on peoples’ lives,” Ms Cain said. 

Both MPs have now delivered their valedictory speeches in Parliament. 

“Graham and Rowan leave behind an extraordinary legacy of advocacy, and Diabetes Australia thanks them for their unwavering support,” Ms Cain said. 

“We look forward to engaging with new co-chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Diabetes in the next Parliament.” 

Diabetes Australia representatives are in Federal Parliament this week calling on both sides of politics to commit to funding equitable access to diabetes technologies during the upcoming Federal Election.  

Expanding subsidies for insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring devices will ensure Australians living with all types of diabetes have access to the technology they need to live well. 

With more than 1.5 million Australians living with diabetes, and projections indicating that number will exceed 3.1 million by 2050, the need for affordable access to this technology has never been greater.  

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said Continuous Glucose Monitoring devices (CGMs) and Insulin Pumps change, and save, lives. 

“Not only do they enhance quality of life, research shows that they also reduce hospital admissions, and prevent long-term complications such as heart disease, blindness, and kidney failure.  

“Yet, despite their life-saving potential, many Australians living with diabetes simply can’t afford these technologies,” Ms Cain said. 

“The cost-of-living crisis is placing immense pressure on Australians living with diabetes, forcing many to choose between essential medical technology and basic necessities. No one should have to make that choice.” 

Diabetes Australia is urging the Federal Government and the Opposition to commit $200 million over four years to expand subsidised access to diabetes technologies for those who would benefit the most.  

“We’re grateful that the Federal Government has expanded CGM subsidies for all Australians with type 1 diabetes in recent years; however, we still have a long way to go,” Ms Cain said.  

“People with type 2 diabetes requiring multiple daily insulin injections are still denied subsidised CGM access, despite clear evidence of improved health outcomes and cost savings for the healthcare system.  

“At the same time, thousands of Australians living with type 1 diabetes are unable to afford insulin pumps, with private health insurance being the only viable pathway for many. That’s an expensive option that remains out of reach for some people.” 

The recent Federal Parliamentary Inquiry into Diabetes unequivocally supported the expansion of diabetes technology subsidies, stating that “ensuring better access to this technology for all Australians must be a priority”.  

Research has shown that insulin pumps and CGM technology significantly improve blood glucose management, reducing the risk of severe hypoglycaemia, improving time-in-range, and ultimately leads to fewer diabetes-related complications.  

The economic case is just as strong: expanding access will reduce emergency department visits, ambulance callouts, and hospitalisations, providing long-term savings for Australia’s healthcare system. 

Diabetes Australia’s proposed reforms will prioritise:

Insulin pumps for people living with type 1 diabetes who are:

• under 21 years of age
• over 21 years of age with a health care card; and
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

CGM devices for people living with type 2 and other types of diabetes who are:

• pregnant
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• under the age of 21; and
• requiring multiple daily injections of insulin.

Ms Cain said the time for action is now because no Australian should be left behind. 

“Diabetes does not discriminate based on income, postcode, or background, so why should access to life-saving technology?” Ms Cain said. 

“We urge policymakers to commit to the $200 million investment outlined in our Position Statement, ensuring that every Australian has equitable access to the diabetes technology they need to lead healthier, fuller lives.” 

Are you living with diabetes and planning to fast for Ramadan? Follow these practical tips and advice so you can enjoy a safe and healthy Ramadan.

Consider your risk

Fasting, refraining from using medications, insulin and drinking water will affect your blood glucose levels (BGL) and can lead to potential risks including high BGL (hyperglycaemia), low BGL (hypoglycaemia or hypo), dehydration, blood clots and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

According to religious tenets, fasting is not meant to create excessive hardship on an individual. It is a commendable spiritual practice but it’s one that can come with health risks for people living with diabetes. You may be advised not to fast if your diabetes management is unstable prior to Ramadan, if you have type 1 diabetes, if you are hypo unaware, pregnant, unwell, or will be performing intense physical labour.

If you have compilations associated with diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney disease or visual problems, the risk of these issues becoming worse during the fast is high, and so you should consider not fasting.

If you have type 2 diabetes and are treated with metformin, thiazolinediones or diet alone, and if your blood glucose is well managed, you are at low risk of complications with fasting.

The decision to fast is personal, and your health care team has a duty of care to respect your commitment and ensure your safety.

Be prepared

A pre-Ramadan assessment is an opportunity to review your blood pressure, BGL and lipids, learn of any potential risks of fasting, discuss monitoring and how to treat a hypo or manage high BGL, and prescribe any Ramadan-specific changes in the dose and/or timing of your medication or insulin regime.

Remember a hypo is a medical emergency and treatment means you will need to break your fast. Visiting your doctor to adjust your insulin regime before you begin fasting can help you avoid this.

Safety tip: Never stop taking your insulin or your diabetes medications. Speak with your diabetes doctor or nurse about how to change the time and dose during Ramadan.

Check BGLs regularly

Checking your BGL more frequently is encouraged during Ramadan, particularly if you take insulin or are on any sulfonylureas.

The Diabetes and Ramadan International Alliance confirm that pricking the skin for blood glucose testing does not invalidate the fast.

Safety tip: If you feel unwell at any time during Ramadan, check your BGL and be prepared to break the fast to treat a hypo (BGL less than 4mmol/L) – or manage hyperglycaemia (BGL more than 15mmol/L).

Eating during Ramadan

During the month of Ramadan your eating pattern will be affected by long gaps between meals and feasting after iftar that can lead to greater swings in blood glucose levels. Good nutrition is particularly important at this time and maintaining a healthy eating plan will help you avoid the overeating of carbohydrates and fatty foods at the sunset meal.

Suggested meal plan

• Let your predawn meal (suhoor) be the largest one.
• Include complex carbohydrates such as multigrain/wholegrain, sourdough breads, porridge, oats, bran, barley, semolina and buckwheat to give you sustainable energy throughout the day.
• Include protein rich foods such as lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, seeds, nuts, beans, legumes and tofu.
• Drink plenty of fluids, and choose fluid-rich foods to make sure you are well hydrated for the day.

When breaking your fast (iftar)

• Break your fast with a ‘sunset snack’ of one date, a cup of water and a bowl of soup. This will provide an instant boost of energy and hydration to help settle your hunger and prevent overeating at the start of your main meal.
• Try to eat slowly and chew well to prevent overeating.
• Use the healthy plate model as a reminder: a quarter of your plate should be complex low GI carbohydrates such as low GI rice, legumes and sweet potato, a further quarter of your plate should be lean meat, skinless chicken, egg, fish or tofu; the final half of your plate should be vegetables or salad.
• Try to avoid fried and salty foods at iftar.
• Make sure you drink plenty of fluids – try to drink two cups every hour to remain hydrated.

Snack right

Two hours after the dinner meal, it is normal to feel hungry. Have a healthy snack to avoid overeating or overindulging in traditional sweets. Avoid sugary foods as they don’t provide you with sustainable energy. Fried foods may also make you feel sluggish.

Some healthy choices include:

• One or two pieces of fresh fruit
• Canned fruit in natural juice (drained)
• Vegetable sticks with a tablespoon of hummus, tomato salsa or yoghurt dip
• 100-200g of low fat yoghurt
• A cup of low fat milk or soy milk (calcium fortified)
• 1-2 cups unbuttered and unsalted popcorn
• A handful of plain raw unsalted nuts
• A slice of grainy bread with a thin spread of avocado, low-fat ricotta, cottage cheese or hummus, with sliced vegetables.

Physical activity

You can continue to do your normal physical activity. However excessive physical activity should be avoided as this can increase your risk of hypoglycaemia, particularly during the few hours before the sunset meal.

Taraweeh (multiple prayers performed after the sunset meal which involve repeated cycles of rising, kneeling, and bowing) can be a tiring activity and you could become dehydrated or be at risk of hypos. To avoid problems during Taraweeh, make sure you:

• Eat starchy foods with iftar as they are digested slowly
• Drink plenty of water following iftar
• Take a bottle of water and glucose treatment with you to taraweeh.

Insulin treatment

Basal (sometimes also called background insulin, long or intermediate-acting) insulin doses may need to be reduced by around 15-30%. It is best taken after iftar.

Bolus (mealtime, rapid or short-acting) insulin doses should not be taken at lunchtime. The suhoor dosage may need to be reduced by around 25-50%. Usually the regular bolus dosage can be continued at iftar, provided you have a similar sized meal as you would usually have at dinner.

If you take premixed insulin once daily the dosage can be taken at iftar. For those taking twice daily premixed insulin, the suhur dosage will need to be reduced by around 25-50%. If you are usually on three lots of premixed insulin at main meals, the lunchtime one should not be taken. The iftar and suhoor doses will need to be adjusted.

If you have type 1 diabetes and you are on an insulin pump, generally the basal rates will need to be reduced by 20-40% in the last three to four hours of fasting. You should increase your basal rates by up to 30% after iftar.  Normal carbohydrate counting and insulin sensitivity principles apply in regards to bolus doses at both suhoor and iftar.

Note: The above medication and insulin dose adjustment recommendations are a guideline only. You should always seek advice from your doctor prior to Ramadan in regards to any medication changes that may be needed.

Diabetes Educator and Accredited Practising Dietitian Shannon Lin
Accredited Practising Dietitian Lina Breik
Accredited Practising Dietitian Dyala Al Jabi

Updated February 2025

The Diabetes Alliance has called on the Federal Government to commit to, and fund, the recommendations of the Parliament Inquiry into Diabetes.

In a submission to the Federal Budget process, the Alliance highlighted key priorities from the recommendations including access to diabetes technologies, investment in research, support for the diabetes workforce and investment in prevention. 

With over two million Australians living with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, the condition is the cause of a growing crisis costing the health system $3.4 billion annually.

The Parliamentary Inquiry report, The State of Diabetes Mellitus in Australia, includes 23 recommendations including support for expanding access to diabetes technologies, coordinating diabetes research, better funding the diabetes workforce and investing in diabetes prevention. The recommendations are a comprehensive package of measures that would begin to stem the tide of Australia’s diabetes epidemic

Diabetes Australia’s position statement on equitable access to technology formed part of the budget submission. It advocates for a staged approach to expanding subsidies for insulin pumps for people living with type 1 diabetes and continuous glucose monitoring devices for people living with type 2 diabetes.

More funding for diabetes research is also a key focus for the Federal Budget. A decline in funding for diabetes research in Australia has had a significant impact on the field.

In 2023, NHMRC (the Australian Government’s primary health and medical research funding agency), provided only $19 million for diabetes research, which is less than half of the amount allocated in 2022.

A budget submission from the Australian Diabetes Society, Diabetes Australia and the Australian Diabetes Educators Association calls for $50 million in funding for priority areas of research including the causes of diabetes, prevention and remission, complications, and the rates of diabetes in the general population; as well as $75 million for diabetes-specific investigator grants.

The sector acknowledges and celebrates the Federal Government’s announcement last year to fund the Clinical Research Network of JDRF Australia. This is a significant investment in type 1 diabetes research. The Alliance is advocating for investment in other areas of diabetes research as well.

The Australian Diabetes Alliance

The Australian Diabetes Alliance comprises the country’s major diabetes organisations in collective advocacy for the sector: Diabetes Australia, the Australian Diabetes Educators Association, the Australian Diabetes Society, JDRF Australia, the Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society, and the Australian and New Zealand Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes.

The festive season often brings joy, togetherness, and the sharing of delicious meals. However, the aftermath can include unwanted weight gain, which can be particularly challenging for individuals managing diabetes. Carrying extra weight can impact blood glucose levels and overall health, but the good news is that it is never too late to get back on track. Here’s a diabetes-friendly guide to shedding those extra kilos and regaining control of your health. 

Begin by assessing where you’re at presently. Step on the scales, measure your blood glucose levels, and take note of any changes in your energy levels or mood. This baseline will help you set realistic goals and track your progress. 

Tip: Avoid being too hard on yourself. Treat this as a fresh start rather than a punishment for holiday indulgences. 

Refocus on a balanced diet 

The festive season often involves consuming energy-dense, high-sugar and high-fat foods. To get back on track, shift your focus to a diabetes-friendly, healthy eating meal plan: 

• Prioritise whole foods: base your meals on low GI carbohydrate foods, non-starchy vegetables, lean protein sources, and healthy fats. 

• Control portions: Use smaller plates and practice mindful eating to avoid overeating. 

• Choose low-GI carbs: Opt for whole grains like quinoa, pasta, basmati rice, long grain brown rice, and legumes to stabilise blood glucose levels. 

• Limit processed foods: Avoid sugary snacks and added sugar foods that can spike blood glucose levels. 

Reintroduce regular exercise 

Physical activity plays a critical role in weight loss and blood glucose management. If your routine slipped during the holidays, start small and build up gradually: 

• Cardio: Walking, cycling, or swimming can help burn energy (kilojoules) and improve heart health. 

• Strength training: Incorporate resistance training exercises to build muscle, which improves insulin sensitivity. 

• Daily movement: Stay active throughout the day, take the stairs, stretch during work breaks, or go for short walks after meals. 

Hydrate wisely 

Alcohol and sugary drinks from festive celebrations may have contributed to water retention or dehydration. Rehydrate with plenty of water to aid metabolism, reduce cravings, and support blood glucose control. Aim for at least eight glasses daily. 

Tip: Herbal teas or lemon-infused water are great alternatives to plain water. 

Prioritise sleep 

Lack of sleep can disrupt hunger hormones and lead to increased cravings, making weight loss harder. Return to a consistent sleep schedule and aim for seven to nine hours of quality rest each night to support your metabolism and blood glucose stability. 

Monitor blood glucose levels 

Weight gain can cause fluctuations in blood glucose levels. Keep a close eye on your readings, especially as you make dietary and exercise changes. If necessary, consult your healthcare provider about adjusting your medication or insulin dosage. 

Set realistic weight loss goals 

Weight loss doesn’t need to be rapid to be effective. In fact, research recommends, for sustainable weight loss, to aim for 1-4kgs a month. Everyone will be different as to how much they lose but the main aim is to see a trend going down. Even a modest weight reduction of 5-10% can significantly improve blood glucose management and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications 

Plan your meals 

Meal planning helps you avoid unhealthy choices and ensures balanced nutrition. Prepare your meals in advance, focusing on portion control and diabetes-friendly recipes. Include protein-rich snacks, such as boiled eggs, a handful of raw nuts, or Greek yogurt, to keep you satisfied between meals. 

Stay accountable 

Accountability can make a big difference in staying on track. Share your weight loss goals with a friend, family member, or support group. Tracking your meals and exercise in a journal or app (calorieking.com.au) can also help you stay consistent.  

Learn from the festive season 

Reflect on what led to the weight gain during the festive season. Were there particular foods or habits that derailed you? Use this knowledge to plan better strategies for future celebrations, such as healthier recipe swaps or sticking to smaller portions. 

Celebrate non-scale victories 

Weight loss isn’t the only marker of success. Celebrate other achievements, such as improved blood glucose levels, increased energy, improved sleep, better mood or fitting into your favourite clothes again. These victories can keep you motivated on your journey. 

Weight gain during the festive season is common, but it’s entirely possible to reverse it with small, consistent changes. By focusing on balanced nutrition, regular exercise, a positive mindset and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can manage your diabetes and achieve sustainable weight loss. Remember, progress takes time, be patient with yourself and celebrate every step forward.

By Robbie Tyson, Accredited Practising Dietitian and Credentialled Diabetes Educator