Date Published: 21 January 2009
People with Type 2 Diabetes lose weight in free UOW group programs
One of the more difficult things about being diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes is managing the necessary lifestyle changes. People with Type 2 Diabetes traditionally have difficulty with diet adjustment and exercise improvement, as these are often the very factors that contribute to the onset of the disease.
The University of Wollongong’s Katerina Zirogiannis (accredited exercise physiologist) and Kate De Agnoli (accredited dietitian and exercise physiologist) provide outcomes-based programs for participants with an appropriate doctor’s referral. And Katerina and Kate have recently enjoyed some significant successes.
For example, Francis Samaras and Phillip Deacon are two people with Type 2 Diabetes who have benefited from the programs at UOW.
Phillip said that since attending the program he has become more conscious of making healthy food choices.
“I know which foods to choose, the correct portion size, and which foods to avoid and why. I have lost 7kg as a result and my blood sugar levels are always within the target range,” he said.
Francis agreed saying that with the help of the program she gained a better understanding of how exercise works to manage Type 2 Diabetes.
“My motivation for exercise has increased and I have lost a few kilos as a result of maintaining a regular walking routine,” Francis said.
Many participants are eligible for Medicare rebates for these programs and no gap fee is charged.
Potential participants should discuss the suitability of a referral to the program with their doctor.
Source: /www.uow.edu.au
