Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

David’s: Type 2 Diabetes Journey Through Life

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

Chasity Shell

Mar 30, 2023

Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

I had the pleasure of speaking with David (family friend), a 52-year-old man who has had

Type 2 diabetes for the past 12 years, in this interview. High blood sugar levels brought on by

insulin resistance, and/or the body's inability to use insulin properly, are the hallmarks of type 2

diabetes, a chronic disorder. David was kind enough to share his insights, dietary adjustments,

and the effects of his illness on his daily life.

A metabolic illness called type 2 diabetes affects how the body uses insulin to control

blood sugar levels. A mix of genetic and environmental factors, such as an unhealthy diet, a

sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and family history, frequently contribute to it. Symptoms of Type 2

diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, exhaustion, and slowly healing wounds.

Dietary adjustments, blood sugar monitoring, and lifestyle changes are all necessary for proper

management of the illness.

Impact on Daily Life and Nutritional Changes: David was 40 years old when his routine

checkup revealed he had Type 2 diabetes. When asked about his illness, he said, "When I was

initially diagnosed, I felt overpowered and terrified. I came to the realization that in order to

effectively control my diabetes, I needed to make big adjustments to my lifestyle, particularly my

nutrition.
Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

David needed to adjust his diet in a number of ways to manage his illness. He used a

balanced strategy, emphasizing portion management, tracking carbohydrates, and selecting foods

with low glycemic index. I've learned to prioritize nutrient-dense foods and stay away from

processed sweets and carbohydrates, the man said. Making better decisions and paying attention

to how different foods affect my blood sugar levels are the only things that matter.

Food Preferences and everyday food: David gave details about his everyday food. He

usually eats a dish of porridge with fresh berries and a dash of cinnamon for breakfast. A

substantial salad with mixed greens, grilled chicken breast, and vinaigrette dressing is frequently

served for lunch. Dinner typically consists of roasted vegetables, a little amount of quinoa, and a

plate of lean protein, such as salmon or turkey. Throughout the day, he eats Greek yogurt,

almonds, and seeds as snacks.

Challenges and Impact on David's Life: David has faced several difficulties as a result of

having Type 2 diabetes. He talked about how it might be challenging to avoid enticing foods,

particularly at social gatherings and on special occasions. It can be difficult to say no to

particular meals, but David said, "I've realized that looking after my health is more important."

My family and friends are supportive, and they urge me to choose better options. Davids stressed

his considerable lifestyle modifications as having had a good influence. He has reduced his

weight, improved his physical activity, and gained more knowledge about diet and how it affects
Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

his general health. He said, "Type 2 diabetes has made me reassess my lifestyle and give

my health more priority. I now lead a healthier lifestyle than ever before since it served as a

trigger for positive improvements.

All in all, David's life has changed as a result of having Type 2 diabetes. He has

effectively controlled his blood sugar levels and enhanced his general health through dietary

changes and a dedication to consistent exercise. Despite the difficulties of avoiding tempting

meals and getting used to a new eating regimen, David has grown personally and adopted

healthier habits as a result of his Type 2 diabetes journey.

Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

REFERENCE PAGE

- Mayo Clinic: Type 2 Diabetes

- American Diabetes Association

- National Library of Medicine