John: managing type 2 diabetes and Numan’s Weight Loss Programme

After years of pounding the drums, John’s next goal was dropping the pounds. A self-employed drummer and vocalist who spent over two decades playing for the military, John recently faced a new challenge: managing type 2 diabetes.

Here’s how his journey with Numan’s Weight Loss Programme has transformed his health.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to start Numan’s programme?

I’ve been a musician pretty much my whole life. I was in the military for 22 years, joining at 18, and I played drums for the troops. People might not know it, but the Army is actually the biggest employer of full-time musicians in the country - there are around 700 of us. But over time, old injuries caught up with me, especially in my knees from running and my shoulders from drumming, which made weight loss even harder. 

What was the tipping point for you to join the programme?

A big wake-up call came when I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in May. I knew something had to change, but I couldn’t rely on my usual workouts due to my injuries. That got me thinking about alternatives. I researched Numan and realised this was the kind of support I needed. After a few days, I decided to jump in and start my own journey.

How has your experience been with Numan’s programme so far?

It’s been incredible. Losing this weight has given me back my mobility - my joints don’t hurt as much, so I can drum without pain again. Even better, my doctor mentioned that my type 2 diabetes might be going into remission, which I never thought possible. I can finally perform like I used to, without the physical restrictions.

What were some of the initial challenges with the medication?

I did experience some constipation initially, but my health coach helped me manage it. They provided practical tips like increasing fibre and taking over-the-counter solutions when needed. It’s been reassuring to have that support - just knowing I had someone to turn to made it much easier to handle.

What role has your health coach played in this journey?

My health coach has been fantastic. They check in regularly, encourage me, and give me advice on making healthier choices, especially when I’m out socialising. I have a structured weekly routine now. Each Friday, I go to a local wine bar with my wife and a friend who’s also on the programme, and then we enjoy a vegetarian curry together. It’s filling but not heavy, and it’s become part of our lifestyle rather than something restrictive.

How has the programme impacted other areas of your life?

Beyond just looking better, I feel healthier. I have more energy, my blood pressure has dropped, and my joint pain has significantly reduced. At my nephew’s recent wedding, my family noticed the change, and the compliments made me feel proud of myself again. I used to feel embarrassed about my weight, especially when performing, but now I’m regaining confidence in both my personal and professional life.

Has the programme influenced your view on weight loss?

It’s completely changed how I think about it. I used to believe weight loss was all about diet and extreme exercise, but now I see it’s about balance. I’m not constantly hungry anymore, so I can make better choices without feeling deprived. The lifestyle changes I’ve made through Numan feel realistic for the long term, rather than a quick fix.

Did you face any stigma or negative comments about using a weight loss programme?

Yes, a bit. People sometimes see programmes like this as “cheating,” but I know it’s not. The results speak for themselves, and I’m doing this for my health. Who’s anyone else to judge? I’ve realised that making a decision to improve your health isn’t something you should feel ashamed of, no matter what people think.

How has the programme influenced your habits and lifestyle overall?

It’s made a massive difference in my day-to-day life. I have a structure to my week now, especially with food. I’m not constantly hungry, so I can be more intentional about what I eat. I’ve found a balance where I can still enjoy life - I’m not bored or tired of eating. I just make smarter choices.

Has losing weight impacted your relationship with your music?

Absolutely. Drumming is physically demanding, and before this programme, I struggled with pain. Now, I can play as I want, without worrying about injury. It’s freed me up to be the musician I used to be, and that means a lot to me.

Do you think you could have achieved these results with just the medication alone?

The medication helps manage hunger, but having my health coach there has been crucial. They’ve been a huge part of this journey, helping me with both mental and physical aspects of weight loss. I probably could have lost weight on the medication alone, but the coaching has made it sustainable. When I eventually come off the medication, I’ll have those habits to carry forward.

That’s brilliant. What’s next for you?

I’m planning to keep going until I reach a weight where I feel comfortable. I’m not in a rush to stop, as I want to see how far I can go. Weight management will always be something I work on, but with Numan, I feel equipped to make it a lifelong commitment.