It was a massive wake-up call to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in my early 40s. But I probably didn’t take that diagnosis seriously enough at the time.
I moved from Western Australia to Victoria around 11 years ago for work and found that I spent a lot more time sitting around and eating and drinking rather than the more active and outdoors lifestyle I enjoyed in Perth.
I knew I needed to make a change, so I went to see my GP and he suggested I lose weight to better manage my diabetes. I had seen my weight rise to as high as 115kgs over the past few years.
I first saw the Medibank Type 2 Diabetes Program advertised on social media, and I thought it was a wonderful opportunity to follow my GPs advice and make a proper commitment towards my future health.
When I joined the program in January, I felt this was really something I could adopt into my life without making too many changes.
What I really liked was the convenience of the 18-weeks of meal replacements that were either shakes or protein bars. They were tasty and filling but importantly fitted into the busy lifestyle I lead.
When I get home for dinner, there’s a really good cookbook that gives us a lot of easy to prepare recipes.
I also really enjoyed the support and understanding I received from my dietician Katherine who helped guide me through the program.
I’ve also introduced regular exercise into my life whether out with my children, walking my dog or boxing – which helps me both mentally and physically.
It hasn’t been easy for me, I’ve really had to stick at it – but I don’t intend on going back.
So far I have lost 19 kilograms and reduced my blood sugar levels, which is helping me to better manage my diabetes.
I am very proud of what I have achieved so far. I look forward to where it can take me in the future.
About the program:
Michael Busch was one of the first customers to join the program in January 2021.
Medibank Type 2 Diabetes Program is a pilot program which will examine whether a personalised weight loss program and increase in physical activity can better manage type 2 diabetes for newly diagnosed participants, or potentially reverse it in some cases.
Medibank supported by the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute and Austin Health is remotely delivering Medibank Type 2 Diabetes Program. Eligible customers are provided with a very low-calorie diet and personalised 1:1 support with a dietitian to improve their diabetes management.
*Individual results may vary. You should always consult a trusted health professional before making decisions about your health care. *
