AN East Morton woman has spoken of how her life has been transformed thanks to a low-carb programme.

Since starting on the scheme – run locally by the Modality AWC GP partnership, for patients diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes – a year ago, Sue Myerscough has shed six stones, and eight inches from her waistline.

"Before I started on the programme I had a bad back and could only walk a few yards because of the pain," says Sue.

"I had sat a lot, and got fatter. I suffered with severe sciatica and had pain down both legs.

"When I began on the programme in February last year the doctor reduced some of my medication, which helped focus my mind.

"I started by cutting out all the high-carb foods, such as potatoes, pasta, rice, bread and pastry.

"The first two weeks were hard, but as I began to put flavour into my food it has become enjoyable and is a way of life for me now!

"As well as losing weight, I have walked a mile on several occasions and the pain down my legs and back has gone. I’ve reduced my medications even more.

"This programme has been life-changing for me. I smile more!"

Sue's sample daily menu includes an occasional breakfast of omelette with cheese; nuts, cheese, tzatziki/celery at lunchtime; a snack of fried wrap with salt, like a crisp substitute, and dinner of chicken-based pizza. Drinks include water, low-sugar cordial and tea.

She is keen to promote the programme to others, and has 'starred' in advertising which helped attract more than 40 people to sign-up to new groups.

GP Dr Jackie Craven says the programme is seeing some "amazing" results.

She adds: "If you have Type 2 diabetes and want to lose weight, take better control of your diabetes and get off your medication, then join our very low carb programme!

"We are seeing amazing results on this structured programme, which is held in small groups at either Holycroft Surgery in Keighley or Silsden Medical Practice.

"Run by a Modality GP and two dietitians, the sessions will educate and support you to eat and maintain a very low carb diet.

"Certain medical conditions may mean some people are excluded from adopting a very low carb diet, but we can offer support."

Anyone with Type 2 diabetes interested in joining the programme should email awc.modalitypartnership@nhs.net for more details.