Take Control of Diabetes and Live Well with the Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and Abbott launched the Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign to encourage Malaysians to take control of their condition and live well. 

Diabetes is a growing concern worldwide, and in Malaysia, it’s an urgent one. The National Health and Morbidity Survey reports that approximately 3.6 million Malaysians – or 15.6% of the adult population – are living with diabetes, and many more may be undiagnosed, and my late husband was one of them who had lived with diabetes and he suffered multiple strokes from not wanting to take care….

So, yeah,  it is vital to understand the realities of diabetes, and identify effective ways to manage it. 

Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign  highlights success stories of Malaysians who participated in a four-week lifestyle intervention program incorporating good nutrition and physical exercise. 

In promoting these stories and inviting people to share their journey with diabetes management, Abbott aims to galvanize people with diabetes to live fuller, healthier lives. 

To empower Malaysians on this journey, Abbott has launched the Glucerna #StartsWithYou campaign, a movement inspiring positive lifestyle changes and practical diabetes management.

Diabetes is not just a medical condition; it impacts your daily life in multiple ways, from planning your meals to exercise and stress management. 

And when you do not want to make changes and leave it unchecked, it leads to severe complications, including heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve issues, thus stroke!!! (As it happened to my late husband)

However, with early intervention and proper lifestyle modifications, managing diabetes can become a sustainable part of life. Here’s where lifestyle choices and a commitment to better nutrition become indispensable tools for individuals facing diabetes.

One of the steps would be to incorporate Glucerna® in your daily life….

Glucerna®, a scientifically-formulated diabetes-specific nutrition formula, is integral to the GLCP approach. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Glucerna® effectively manages blood glucose levels by providing a steady release of glucose. Research published in Diabetes Care found that individuals with diabetes who consumed Glucerna® maintained glucose levels within the target range up to 90% of the time after just four weeks. Glucerna’s unique formulation includes low glycaemic index carbohydrates, which help minimise post-meal spikes, alongside essential nutrients that support overall health.

''The prevalence of diabetes remains high in Malaysia, so it’s important to help individuals adopt healthy habits and strategies to manage their condition,'' said Dr. Nina Mazera Mohd Said, Abbott’s nutrition medical director in Malaysia. ''The Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program has supported many people with diabetes manage their glucose levels through positive lifestyle changes including good nutrition and exercise. Today, we are happy to showcase some success stories to empower more Malaysians with diabetes to build healthy habits.''

Small lifestyle modifications can make a big impact on diabetes management and overall health. And Ainaa Munirah Pang, a 39-year-old chef, shared her success journey in achieving her target glucose levels with the help of the Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program (GLCP). 

Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at the age of 27, Ainaa faced the challenge of adhering to a healthy and consistent regime, especially being surrounded by sweet temptations at her job.

The four-week lifestyle intervention program helped guide her on a path to better health. She received support from like-minded participants who shared common goals, challenges and resources to help manage their diabetes. 

''Joining the program was life-changing,'' said Ainaa. ''It wasn’t just about controlling my glucose level but also about finding a community of support and making small changes that added up to a big difference.''

The GLCP, which started in 2021, includes a guide on diabetes management and information on balanced diet, diabetes-specific nutrition formula, exercise and the importance of regular glucose monitoring. Participants also learn how to cope with diabetes burnout and other challenges that can derail their commitment to diabetes care. In addition, they receive support from a group of trained doctors and dietitians, and like-minded participants who share common goals, challenges and resources to help them better manage their condition. More than 200 adults in Malaysia have participated in the program and have improved their diabetes.

"Most Malaysians living with diabetes have obesity or overweight, so structured lifestyle interventions, nutritional management, and a robust support system can help improve their weight and condition," said Dr. Zanariah Hussein, head of the endocrine unit at Putrajaya Hospital. ''These comprehensive approaches – which are included in the GLCP – enables adults to take charge of their health, leading to better outcomes and quality of life.''

''While there are many factors in managing diabetes, nutrition remains critical,'' said Indra Balaratnam, a consultant dietitian. ''Individuals with diabetes need to be aware of their eating habits and make informed choices that incorporate a variety of foods in moderation. Whether through meal planning, smart snacking, or cooking at home with natural ingredients, it’s important to follow a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean proteins.''  

The Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign encourages everyone to share their personal journey with diabetes management. Participants who send in their stories to the Abbott Nutrition Careline (wecare@abbott.com) will receive a Glucerna® Wellness Pack. 

For more information on the Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign, please visit https://www.family.abbott/my-en/home.html or follow us on social media.