Type 2 diabetes
'Becoming diabetic forced me to change my life around'
Charles Torkington, 54, an IT specialist from Thirsk in North Yorkshire, says being diagnosed with diabetes gave him the determination to change his diet and his life. "I was a pilot for 30 years, and was fit and active. But when I left the forces eight years ago, my life changed. "I studied IT and stopped exercising due to work pressures. My weight went up to just over 15 stone (95kg). "Then I started getting pains in my legs, which I thought were linked to a back injury. My doctor said it was either cancer or diabetes. "A week later, he rang to say I had diabetes.My blood sugar levels were so high they were off the scale. "My GP put me on an exercise and diet regime, reducing portion sizes and cutting out alcohol completely. I now eat lots of vegetables, salmon and skinned chicken, and no processed food at all. "I run up the stairs instead of walking, I walk to get the weekend shopping, and polish the car vigorously by hand. I also walk three or four miles in the countryside at weekends. "I'm now 11 stone 8lb (74kg) and feel so much better. I've got loads of energy and my blood sugar is under control. Becoming diabetic forced me to change my life. I'm very happy now." 
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on
Introduction
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn't produce enough insulin to function properly, or the body's cells don't react to insulin. This means glucose stays in the blood and isn't used as fuel for energy.
Symptoms
Read about the symptom of diabetes, including feeling very thirsty, passing more urine than usual, and feeling tired all the time.
Causes
Read about the causes of type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin to maintain a normal blood glucose level, or the body is unable to use the insulin that is produced.
Treatment
Read about treating type 2 diabetes. Find out how to keep your blood glucose levels as normal as possible by making lifestyle changes, such as eating more healthily and taking more exercise.
Complications
Read about complications of type 2 diabetes. Without treatment, it can lead to a number of other health problems. High glucose levels can damage blood vessels, nerves and organs.
Living with
Read about living with type 2 diabetes. If you have type 2 diabetes, you'll need to look after your health very carefully.
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