A 66-year-old grandfather from Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, was shocked to discover he was pre-diabetic despite leading an active lifestyle. Will McKechnie, a dance teacher who exercises daily, thought he was healthy. He danced multiple times a week and maintained a weight of 167 pounds. However, a routine blood test during a free screening for seniors revealed that his average blood sugar level was 6.2%, a sign of pre-diabetes.
McKechnie had always considered himself fit and healthy. He enjoyed snacks like chocolate bars and chips without a second thought. But when his doctor informed him about his blood sugar levels, he was alarmed. He remembered feeling terrified when the doctor mentioned that his condition might not be reversible.
Determined to improve his health, McKechnie made significant changes to his diet and eating habits. He eliminated his nightly treats of chocolate and chips and began focusing on whole, nutritious foods. He also started eating more slowly, taking up to 40 minutes to finish a lunch of wholemeal chicken sandwiches.
His breakfast now includes fruit, while dinner often consists of boiled eggs, peanuts, celery, cherry tomatoes, carrots, and cucumber. As a result of these changes, McKechnie lost nearly 27 pounds, dropping his weight to 142 pounds and fitting into a size small shirt. More importantly, his blood sugar level decreased to 5.9% within nine months.
McKechnie’s journey highlights the importance of regular health screenings, even for those who appear healthy. He encourages everyone to check their blood sugar levels routinely. Since making these lifestyle adjustments, he no longer craves sugar and feels more energetic than ever. He believes that the test that revealed his pre-diabetes has significantly improved his life, making him fitter and healthier overall.