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The pandemic has changed every part of our lives and taken a toll on the mind and body , with thousands paying the heavy price of gaining weight during the lockdown .
Lockdown weight gain may be a significant factor in increasing rates of type 2 diabetes in the UK .
A recent NHS study has revealed that people asking for weight-loss help are on average 2.27kg heavier than those recorded three years ago .
Professor Jonathan Valabhji , NHS National Clinic Director for Diabetes and Obesity , urged those struggling with weight-gain to use the NHS diabetes programme in order to reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes .
Professor Valabhji said : “ The pandemic has changed every part of our lives and taken a toll on the mind and body , with thousands paying the heavy price of gaining weight during the lockdown .
“ The increase in weight also means an increased risk of type 2 diabetes , associated with many common types of cancer , blindness , amputations and heart attacks .”
Meanwhile , a recent meeting of European diabetes experts heard that , during lockdown , those with type 2 reported worsened blood sugar control while those with type 1 experienced improvements .
“ The backlog in routine diabetes care must urgently be addressed , so that those living with diabetes can access the support and care they need .”
She said it was vital that those living with diabetes had access to the latest technologies to help them manage their blood sugar levels to improve their health .
Also commenting on the increased risk of diabetes over lockdown , Dr Elisabeth Philips said it was important that people tried to combat weight gain .
The neuroscience and nutrition expert said : “ The best way to maintain healthy levels of fat is through a diet low in refined sugar , excessive carbs , damaged fats , fizzy drinks with artificial sweeteners and alcohol .
“ A typical Mediterranean diet high in vegetables , healthy oils and lean protein helps maintain a healthy body weight .
“ Strength exercises build muscle which also helps blood sugar control , as does walking which boosts fat-busting enzymes in the blood .”
Diabetes UK policy manager Nikki Joule said : “ It is worrying that lockdown had a negative impact on diabetes management for those with type 2 .
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