With nearly 400,000 people registered as having type 2 diabetes across the West Midlands, access to healthy food is a critical factor in managing and reversing the condition. St Giles Pantry is playing a vital role in this fight, helping individuals such as 61-year-old Christine Brooks of Coventry take control of their health and work towards diabetes remission.Â
Christine, who joined St Giles Pantry while battling type 2 diabetes, has made remarkable strides in improving her health through healthier eating and weight loss. Â
Thanks to the nutritious surplus food provided by the Pantry, Christine has shed a significant amount of weight, leading to improved blood sugar levels. In fact, her nurse has delayed her next diabetes check, raising the possibility of remission, which recent studies from Diabetes UK suggest is achievable for those who lose 10-15% of their body weight within the first few years of diagnosis.Â
For a weekly subscription of ÂŁ3.50, people can access healthy, affordable food including produce such as fresh fruit and vegetables, items essential for good health but which people experiencing poverty often struggle to afford. Â
“I’m really grateful for the support provided by The Pantry” said Christine. “The help I’ve been given has really beneficial both to my mental health but also my physical health.”Â
In addition to her physical health improvements, Christine has also experienced significant social and emotional benefits. Before joining the Pantry, she faced severe isolation and rarely left her home. However, the sense of community she found through the Pantry has encouraged her to engage more with the world around her and has joined a dance group, marking a significant step towards enjoying a more active lifestyle.
Christine’s story reflects the mission of St Giles Pantry: to provide affordable, nutritious food while also offering guidance and support. The Pantry’s services have empowered Christine to save money, manage her budget, and eat healthily. In addition to helping individuals manage their diabetes, the Pantry provides a sense of community and connection, combatting the isolation that many people living with chronic illness often experience.Â
“We are incredibly proud of Christine’s progress,” said Hannah Whiteley, Programme Manager at St Giles Trust. “Her success not only highlights the importance of our services but also demonstrates that, with the right support, people can achieve life-changing health improvements, including diabetes remission.”Â
St Giles Pantry continues to make a significant impact by offering more than just food—it offers a pathway to better health, empowering clients to take control of their diabetes and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.Â
Diabetes remission is increasingly being recognized as a real possibility for those who manage their weight effectively. Christine’s progress is a powerful example of how weight loss can lead to dramatic improvements in diabetes management.
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