What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes happens when there’s too much sugar (called glucose) in your blood. This can happen if your body isn’t making enough insulin or isn’t using it properly. Too much sugar in your blood can hurt your heart, eyes, kidneys, and even your feet.
Before Type 2 diabetes, you might be told you have pre-diabetes. This means your blood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough to be called diabetes. Having pre-diabetes doesn’t mean you will definitely get type 2 diabetes, but your risk is higher. People with prediabetes are much more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those with healthy blood sugar levels.
The Good News
Pre-diabetes is a warning sign. It’s a chance for you to make simple, positive changes to improve your health and lower your risk. By losing just 2kg, you can reduce your chances of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 30%! Small steps now can make a big difference in your future health.
Tips to Help You Keep It Up
+ Set Realistic Goals
Healthy changes take time – and that’s okay! Start small and take one step at a time. It’s easier to make little changes than to try changing everything all at once.
Writing down your goals and the small steps to get there in your Action Plan can help you stay focused and motivated. You’ve already made a great start – keep going at your own pace.
+ Get Support
Staying healthy is easier with support. Work with your doctor and health team to stay on track. Having a good relationship with your health professionals can help you for the long run.
You can also join Diabetes YOUnited, a free program from Diabetes Australia, designed for people with diabetes, pre-diabetes, and their families and carers.
+ Eat Smart
Eating regular meals with a mix of healthy foods can help you feel better and reach your goals. Aim to include foods from the five food groups each day.
Not sure where to start? Try the Healthy Eating Quiz from No Money No Time. It’s quick, easy, and gives you helpful tips based on what you eat.
+ Stay Active
Try to move your body every day and spend time outside in green spaces like parks or gardens – it can help you feel happier, healthier, and more active.
Cutting back on screen time and going for a walk or doing something fun outdoors it a great way to look after your body and mind.
+ Self-Monitor
Weigh yourself once a week to see how you’re doing. You can also visit your GP or get a free health check at a SiSU Health Station.
Keep track of your progress with your daily checklist or activity planner. You can also use health apps or a pedometer to track your exercise and food choices. This helps you stay aware and in control of your journey.
+ Stay Informed
Keep learning about healthy food choices and how to cook simple meals. This will help you manage your weight and feel great in the long run
Check out our Resources for helpful tools and tips, or explore our event calendar. We’re always adding new ideas to help your stay on track and keep moving forward.
Sometimes, managing your weight can be harder, especially during holidays or events. If that happens, don’t worry – just focus on getting back on track!
The 2kg Challenge has all the resources to help you succeed. Whenever you need a boost, feel free to take the challenge again!
A supportive environment is important too! That’s why we’re working with local partners to make healthy choices easier in our community. Together, we’re helping each other get healthier.
Good luck, and remember – keep going, because you can do it!