Labour's deputy leader Tom Watson has lost 44kg (7 stone) and reversed his type 2 diabetes after overhauling his diet and exercise habits. Watson, who weighed 140kg (22 stone) at his heaviest, was diagnosed with the condition in late 2015.
Watson said he initially felt 'frightened and ashamed' after his diagnosis and did little to address it for a year or two. However, after reading scientific papers and books advocating low-carb diets, he cut out all refined sugar and processed foods, and reduced starchy carbohydrates. His blood glucose levels normalised within a month, and he came off medication two months ago.
Alongside dietary changes, Watson started exercising gradually, beginning with taking the stairs and walking 10,000 steps a day. He later took up cycling and weight training. He now does two cardio workouts a week and feels 'more energetic', with improved sleep and mental clarity.
Watson believes Britain's food system is 'broken' and that NHS advice needs to change. He says his mission is to help other patients, and he considers himself a 'reformed sugar addict' who must avoid sugar to prevent the condition returning.
