Labour's deputy leader, Tom Watson, has revealed he lost seven stone and reversed his type 2 diabetes by cutting out sugar, taking up exercise, and radically transforming his health. Watson, who at his heaviest weighed 22 stone, now weighs 15 stone and has been in remission for a year. He believes Britain's food system is broken and that NHS advice needs to change, and says his mission is to help other patients.
Watson was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in late 2015, which he described as a 'blow' that left him feeling 'frightened and ashamed'. Initially, he took medication but did little else to address his condition, admitting he was in denial for a year or two. After reading books such as 'The Pioppi Diet' and 'The Fast Diet', he researched scientific papers and realised that sugar might be the real problem.
He cut out all refined sugar and processed foods, and avoided starchy carbs. Within a month, his blood glucose levels were normal, and after three months, his long-term blood sugar levels were within normal range. Two months ago, he came off medication. He now considers himself a 'reformed sugar addict' and says he feels more energetic and no longer experiences 'brain fog'.
Alongside dietary changes, Watson started exercising, beginning with small goals like taking the stairs instead of the lift. He gradually increased his activity, including cycling and press-ups, and joined a gym in January this year. He now does two cardio workouts a week. Watson's transformation has been so significant that a local Labour party member donated clothes to him as his suits no longer fit.
