Ronny Terry is a Swindon-based personal trainer. He has previously worked as Performance Analyst with Swindon Town FC and on obesity initiatives with the NHS. Tweet your questions to @SWITCHFITUK or visit www.switchfituk.co.uk

Q What is diabetes and is the condition reversible?

A Diabetes mellitus is the name given to a group of metabolic diseases affecting insulin and blood sugar levels in the body.

More than three million people in England are affected by the condition and this is expected to rise by 35% in the next 15 years. There are thought to be over 750,000 people in England that have diabetes but have not yet been diagnosed.

There are two main types of diabetes: type one and type two. In type one diabetes the immune system attacks cells in the pancreas resulting in zero insulin production. Type one diabetes is often known as insulin dependent diabetes as those diagnosed with the condition become reliant on insulin injections indefinitely.

Some 90% of people affected by diabetes suffer from type two, which is also known as insulin resistant diabetes. In this instance, the body may be able to produce insulin but is not able to utilise it efficiently and this can result in extremely high blood sugar levels. This may lead to severe dehydration and damage to arteries.

Type two diabetes is associated with obesity and around 80% of those diagnosed are classed as obese or very overweight. Symptoms include increased thirst, a dry mouth, frequent urination and unexplained weight loss.

Simple lifestyle modifications can play an important part in reversing the effects of type two diabetes. Replacing processed, high sugar foods with high fibre, whole-grain alternatives can reduce the impact on blood sugar levels and provide a sustained release of energy. Regular exercise (five times per week) can increase insulin sensitivity meaning it can be metabolised more effectively. Exercise can also assist in reducing body fat levels and this should be the main focus for those with the condition.

If you suffer from any of the symptoms or are very overweight, speak with your doctor about being tested.