Changing the Course of Prediabetes
Holly has fought with her weight all her life. Over the years, she tried many times to lose weight to improve her health. Diabetes runs in her family, and being overweight is a key risk factor for diabetes. Last March, she hit rock bottom when she learned at a doctor’s appointment her A1C was 6.4% and she had prediabetes.
A1C is a measure of a person’s blood sugar level and helps determine if you have prediabetes or diabetes. Ideally it should be below 5.7%. A range of 5.7% to 6.4% is considered prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
Her doctor told her about the Bryan Diabetes Prevention Program. “I went to an information session and got excited when I learned what was involved,” said Holly. She signed up for the yearlong program and has experienced life-changing education, support and results.
Eight months later, her A1C is now a healthy 5.4% and she no longer has prediabetes. “Getting into clothes I haven’t been able to wear and losing 30 pounds have been great, but the thing I’m most proud of is lowering my A1C,” she shared.
It all made sense and made a difference
With the education, support and accountability offered at the program, it all clicked for Holly. “You have to stick with it, but it’s also simple. It’s about healthy eating and physical activity. They encourage and help you along the way.”
“People have asked me, ‘Do they have you count your carbs?’ No, they tell you to just try for a balanced diet,” she said. “It’s much more sustainable than saying that we can never eat carbs again. There’s no expectation that you have to become a rabbit and only eat salads or that you have to deny yourself. It’s all about responsible moderation, and if you mess up, you get another chance at your next meal.”
Our program gives people the tools they need to make healthy lifestyle changes. Being in a group setting provides added accountability and support. It is a joy to work alongside each person as they change their habits and improve their health!
— Gretchen Moll, registered dietitian
“They gave me the tools to keep this up forever,” adds Holly. “I’ve been on vacations since starting the class, and I didn’t put on any weight during them because I used the same structure as being at home.”
Find out for yourself
This program is for people with prediabetes or at risk for diabetes. It’s covered by Medicare and many insurance plans.
If you’re wondering about your A1C, the Bryan On-Demand Lab offers A1C tests for $8. No doctor order or appointment is needed. Learn more and view locations.
Holly encourages anybody thinking about the class to go to an information session to ask questions and learn more. More than halfway through the program, she enjoys attending and is grateful for the change it’s made in her life.
Take Your Next Step
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To learn how you can support the work of Bryan Health, please contact the Bryan Foundation staff by calling 402-481-8605.
