I'm making a change today for a healthier self! In conjunction with November's Diabetes Awareness Month, Abbott announced the launch of the Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign, a meaningful initiative that encourages Malaysians to take control of their health and manage diabetes effectively. The campaign highlights success stories of Malaysians who participated in a four-week lifestyle intervention program incorporating good nutrition and physical exercise. With the aim to galvanize people with diabetes to live fuller and healthier lives, Abbott has been promoting these success stories and inviting people to share their journey with diabetes management.
The launch event on Abbott's Glucerna® #StartsWithYou Campaign was held at Botanica + Co, Bamboo Hills, Kuala Lumpur. The event addressed the alarming rise of diabetes in Malaysia. According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), there is an estimated 3.6 million Malaysians - or 15.6% of the adult population, living with diabetes, and there are many more who are unaware of their diabetic state. Uncontrolled diabetes can impact overall health and cause complications like heart disease, nerve or kidney damage. Small lifestyle modifications can make a big impact on diabetes management and overall health.
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| (Left to right) Dr. Nina Mazera Mohd Said, Abbott's Nutrition Medical Director in Malaysia Ainaa Munirah Pang, Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program (GLCP) participant Datuk Dr. Zanariah Hussein, Head of the Endocrine Unit at Putrajaya Hospital Indra Balaratnam, Consultant Dietitian |
The Importance of Lifestyle Adjustments for Effective Diabetes Management Insights from Dr. Nina Mazera Mohd Said and Datuk Dr. Zanariah Hussein
Dr. Nina Mazera Mohd Said, Abbott's Nutrition Medical Director in Malaysia, shared the awareness and management of diabetes. "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.
"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." Dr. Nina highlighted the importance of adopting a healthier lifestyle for managing diabetes achievable and sustainable.
Datuk Dr. Zanariah Hussein, Head of the Endocrine Unit at Putrajaya Hospital, shared statistics data on Malaysia's diabetes rates, and mentioned untreated diabetes can lead to severe health complications. "Most Malaysians living with diabetes have obesity or overweight¹, so structured lifestyle interventions, nutritional management, and a robust support system can help improve their weight and condition," said Dr. Zanariah.
Dr. Zanariah highlighted that with the comprehensive approaches which are included in GLCP and combine with the support of doctors and dietitians, these can lead to better improvement in managing diabetes control, weight management and better quality of life.
The Success Story of Ainaa's Journey with Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program (GLCP)
At the event, Ainaa Munirah Pang, a 39 years old chef, shared her 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 guided her on a path to better health. She received the access to expert support and a community of 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."
Ainaa's journey has shown the importance of structured lifestyle changes in diabetes management, with proper nutrition, exercise and guidance can make a significant improvement.
Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program (GLCP) - Taking Control of Diabetes Starts with You and the Support of Others
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.
Dietitian Indra Balaratnam's Nutrition Guide and Tips
"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." Indra suggested even simple steps with consistency is the key to maintain steady glucose levels.
During the event, Indra demonstrated how to constitute a balanced diet by using the Malaysian Healthy Plate Model: Suku Suku Separuh #QuarterQuarterHalf
1/4 portion of carbohydrates
1/4 portion of proteins
1/2 portion of vegetables and fruits
as a guide for proper portioning in our meals.
She also performed a simple cooking demonstration on using simple yet healthy ingredients including Glucerna to make up a healthy delicious meal.
How Diabetes-Specific Nutrition Formula Can Help
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.² Glucerna's unique formulation includes low glycaemic index carbohydrates, which help minimise post-meal spikes, alongside essential nutrients that support overall health.
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.
Join me on this journey - because it all #StartsWithYou.
For more information on the Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign, please visit https://www.family.abbott/my-en/home.html
or follow Abbott on social media.
About Abbott
Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Abbott's portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Abbott's 114,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries. More information at www.abbott.com
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¹ Ministry of Health Malaysia. (2023). National Diabetes Registry Report 2023.
² Klein, S., et al. (2013). Effect of a new nutritional formula on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial. Diabetes Care, 36(2), 271-277. doi:10.2337/dc12-0396.
#LivingWellWithDiabetes #StartsWithYou #LifestyleChange #Nutrition #Glucerna
