Type 2 diabetes can be a 'devastating diagnosis' says expert
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The former Pop Idol judge, known to many as Dr Fox – and later as Foxy – has a life-long blood sugar disorder. Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2017, he was prescribed metformin to help manage the condition. Metformin comes under different brand names, ranging from Diagemet to Metabet, the NHS certifies. “Metformin lowers your blood sugar levels by improving the way your body handles insulin,” the health body explains.
For Fox, he decided to incorporate “a mixture of lifestyle, exercise, and diet” to help manage his high blood sugar levels.
He told The Mirror: “I’ve got three beautiful kids and I want to be around for a long time.”
A father to Scarlett (21), Jack (20), and Martha (16), Fox dedicated himself to improving his wellbeing.
“I looked at things I was eating as normal and began to have them as treats,” he explained.
“I cut out white rice, and bread, white pasta, potatoes, pizza and chips. I’ve also cut booze. I’ll have an occasional beer, but not two or three.”
Engaging in the low-carbohydrate diet, Fox notices that his stomach “immediately got flatter”.
During the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, frightened of the increased risk for diabetics, Fox started exercising more.
Taking up cycling, the 61-year-old lost 3kg (just over 6lbs, which is nearly the equivalent of half a stone) in three weeks.
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The NHS states that healthy weight loss involves losing up to two pounds per week, which means Fox was doing a great job of shedding the pounds in a healthy way.
Losing weight is one of the most effective ways to help manage type 2 diabetes, which would otherwise get out of control.
Uncontrolled diabetes can shorten one’s life, especially as it raises the risk of other health conditions.
Examples include: heart disease, stroke, blindness, and issues with the kidneys, the NHS adds.
Many people are unaware that they have type 2 diabetes, as the symptoms can emerge ever so gradually.
As blood sugar levels rise, and keep on rising, symptoms can include:
- Peeing more than usual, particularly at night
- feeling thirsty all the time
- Feeling very tired
- Losing weight without trying to
- Itching around your penis or vagina, or repeatedly getting thrush
- Cuts or wounds taking longer to heal
- Blurred vision.
A GP can diagnose type 2 diabetes by ordering a specific blood test that measures how much sugar is in the bloodstream.
It’s a wise idea to have type 2 diabetes diagnosed at the earliest stage possible to help minimise the risk of complications.
Fox has taken all the correct steps; he has been diagnosed, he’s taken prescribed medication, and committed to a healthier lifestyle.
The leading charity Diabetes UK shares more about the chronic condition, which can be put into remission.
It is also possible to lower your risk of type 2 diabetes in the first place by eating a varied, healthy diet and by exercising every day.
The Accused: National Treasures On Trial is on channel 4, Wednesday August 24, 9pm.
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