My name is Rachel Saul.  I am a 50-year-old Mum of two children and live in the Western Cape.  I was diagnosed in August 2020 with Type 2 diabetes, and my weight was 95kg!  Even worst, my HbAc1 was 13%. 

This was somewhat of a shock to me, and I did not fully understand the consequences.  But I chose to listen to my doctor and make changes to my lifestyle.  Initially the Metformin made me feel nauseous and shaky.  But I stuck with it.

The change was important to me because I was thinking about my 2 sisters that died.  My youngest sister passed away three years ago, and my eldest sister just one year.  I did not want that for my family.  I made the choice to take responsibility for my body and for my health.  I chose to lead by example for my family and hope that I have passed on lessons of healthy choices to my children.

RACHEL

Shortly after my diagnosis I joined Linda’s WhatsApp Group, Diabetes Warriors.   The Group shares their daily fasting blood sugars, and is a voice of support to everyone struggling with this dreaded disease.  Linda introduced me to intermittent fasting, and the Banting food lists.   I also participate in a lot of spiritual dances at my Church, which keeps me active, and I am very active at work.

One year later my HbA1c is down to 6.6% and my weight is at 85kg.  My journey continues, and every day I make the effort to make the right choices; for me and for my family.  My husband has started to follow the same lifestyle as I do, and my kids as well.

I am still on Metformin as my HbA1c is still above 6%.   Every day I make an effort to choose foods from the Banting food lists.    I have also increased my water intake.

Change comes about when we take responsibility.  My humble advice to everyone who is T2, is that it’s your body.  Try your best to eat right and your life will really change.  I know it’s not easy or affordable all the time but there are foods that you can eat every day, especially the green cruciferous vegetables that you can also grow at home, either in pots or in a garden.

DON’T GIVE UP – Whatever you do!