A lifestyle intervention program in the Netherlands is showing promising results in the management of Type 2 diabetes,offering a potential choice and complement to traditional medical approaches. The “Keer Diabetes2 Om” (Turn Diabetes 2 Around) program, based in Waalre and offered by the Voeding Leeft (Nutrition Lives) foundation, has already helped over 100 participants reduce or even eliminate their diabetes medication through sustained behavioral changes and a focus on mindful eating. The program’s success highlights a growing emphasis on holistic health strategies and their potential to ease the burden on strained healthcare systems.
Lifestyle changes can help manage diabetes symptoms, and a growing number of people are finding success with a program in Waalre, Netherlands. Over 100 individuals have already participated in the “Keer Diabetes2 Om” (Turn Diabetes 2 Around) lifestyle program offered by the Voeding Leeft (Nutrition Lives) foundation, with some participants reducing or even eliminating their diabetes medication. “You inspire each other,” organizers say.
Type 2 diabetes, often referred to as “sugar disease,” increases the risk of serious health problems, including cardiovascular disease, kidney and eye damage, sexual dysfunction, and a potentially shorter lifespan. This metabolic disorder can be linked to unhealthy dietary habits, smoking, and a lack of physical activity. Understanding and managing these risk factors is crucial for overall health and well-being.
Breaking the Cycle
Barbara Kerstens, director of the Voeding Leeft foundation, emphasizes the importance of sustained behavioral change for patients. “Some people know their choices are unhealthy, but they don’t know how to change them. That’s where we help,” she explained. “We teach them, for example, that eating three satisfying meals a day can prevent the cravings and hunger often associated with restrictive diets.”
The program encourages individuals to examine the underlying reasons behind unhealthy habits. “If you eat chips or chocolate every night, even knowing it’s not good for you, you need to understand *why* you want to do that and how to stop,” Kerstens said. “We have more time than a general practitioner or practice nurse and look at the underlying patterns.”
Annerose Büchel van Steenbergen, 58, credits the lifestyle program with significantly improving her health. After years of unsuccessful attempts to change her habits, she joined the program in 2024 and has since experienced a dramatic reduction in her blood sugar levels, weight loss, increased physical activity, and the ability to reduce her medication dosage.
The most significant shift, she says, was a change in mindset. “At first, I focused on everything I *couldn’t* do because of diabetes. After just one day, I started looking at what I *could* do and what I was already doing. That makes it much easier,” she explained. The program also provides a supportive community. “You inspire each other.”
Büchel van Steenbergen found the program sustainable because it wasn’t overly restrictive. “I still eat something unhealthy occasionally, but I now make much more conscious choices. It’s about making it your own in a way that allows you to live a pleasant life.”
Easing the Burden on Healthcare Systems
Kerstens describes the positive impact of diet and lifestyle as “magical” and advocates for greater emphasis on these factors within healthcare. She believes medication is too often the first line of defense. “I’m seeing more and more doctors and practice nurses recognizing the importance of lifestyle, but I hope it becomes standard practice. The pressure on healthcare is immense, and people are only getting sicker.”
The “Keer Diabetes2 Om” lifestyle program is covered by basic health insurance. The next group in Waalre is scheduled to begin in late November.
What is diabetes?
According to the Diabetes Fund, diabetes is a disease in which the body can no longer keep blood sugar in balance. Something goes wrong with the hormone insulin, a substance that regulates blood sugar.
There are different types of diabetes, also known as sugar disease. Type 2 diabetes is the most common. In this case, your body no longer responds properly to insulin, causing your blood sugar to rise.
Common
Additionally, complications can arise that lead to damage to
