Supporting Healthier Lifestyles for Diabetes and Aging

The Glucerna #StartsWithYou campaign calls on Malaysians to adopt positive lifestyle changes and share their journey with diabetes management to receive a Wellness Pack

Abbott’s Glucerna #StartsWithYou campaign encourages Malaysians to embrace positive lifestyle changes and share their diabetes management journeys to receive a Wellness Pack.

The campaign shares success stories from Malaysians who have completed a four-week lifestyle intervention programme designed to support positive health changes, particularly in nutrition and physical activity.

Through the Glucerna Lifestyle Change Programme (GLCP), the campaign offers education and resources on nutrition and physical activity, supporting people with diabetes.

By showcasing these personal journeys, Abbott hopes to encourage people with diabetes to lead fuller, healthier lives.

Additionally, the new Ensure Gold formula with HMB and YBG is designed to enhance muscle and immune health, promoting healthy ageing among elderly adults in Vietnam.

Rising Diabetes Rates in Malaysia

According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), around 3.6 million adults in Malaysia—or 15.6% of the adult population are living with diabetes, with many more likely unaware of their condition.

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney issues. Yet, small lifestyle changes, including better diet and exercise, can significantly improve diabetes management.

Dr. Nina Mazera Mohd Said, Abbott’s nutrition medical director in Malaysia, emphasized the importance of community support and healthy habits.

“The prevalence of diabetes remains high in Malaysia, so it’s essential to help individuals adopt healthy habits to manage their condition,” she explained.

“The Glucerna Lifestyle Change Program has helped many achieve better glucose control through nutrition and exercise. By highlighting these success stories, we hope to empower more Malaysians to build healthy habits.”

Personal Stories of Health Transformation

At a recent event, Ainaa Munirah Pang, a 39-year-old chef, shared her personal success story. Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at 27, she faced challenges in sticking to a balanced routine, especially in a kitchen environment full of sweet temptations.

Through the Glucerna Lifestyle Change Program (GLCP), she received guidance and support from participants with similar goals and challenges, helping her achieve her target glucose levels.

“Joining the program was life-changing,” Ainaa shared. “It was more than just controlling my glucose; it was about finding a supportive community and making small changes that made a big difference.”

Launched in 2021, the GLCP provides participants with guidance on diabetes management, meal planning, exercise routines, and stress management.

The program connects participants with doctors, dietitians, and fellow members who share practical resources and encouragement. Over 200 adults in Malaysia have joined the program, with many reporting improvements in glucose levels and overall health.

The Role of Nutrition in Diabetes Management

Proper nutrition is key to managing diabetes. Consultant dietitian Indra Balaratnam highlighted that those with diabetes need to adopt mindful eating habits and make informed choices.

“It’s important to follow a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins,” she advised, suggesting strategies like meal planning, smart snacking, and cooking with natural ingredients.

The GLCP incorporates Glucerna, a diabetes-specific nutrition formula, which is designed to help control blood glucose levels.

Clinical studies show that Glucerna helps maintain glucose levels within a target range for up to 90% of the time within just four weeks.

This formula includes low glycemic index carbohydrates, minimizing post-meal spikes while delivering essential nutrients for overall health.

Join the #StartsWithYou Campaign

The Glucerna #StartsWithYou campaign invites Malaysians to share their own stories of diabetes management. Those who share their experiences with the Abbott Nutrition Careline at wecare@abbott.com will receive a Glucerna Wellness Pack, designed to support ongoing wellness.

To learn more about the Glucerna #StartsWithYou campaign and the Glucerna Lifestyle Change Program, visit Abbott website or on social media.