Eric Stonestreet Says Managing His Type 2 Diabetes Is ‘No Joke’ (Exclusive)

Eric Stonestreet, the well-known actor famous for his role in “Modern Family,” has opened up about his journey in managing type 2 diabetes, a condition he believes should be taken seriously. In a recent candid interview with PEOPLE, Stonestreet, aged 54, described his commitment to transforming his health and lifestyle since his diagnosis in 2009.

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that arises when the body struggles to effectively use insulin, leading to persistently high blood sugar levels. This can create a range of health issues, including heart disease, kidney damage, and increased risk of stroke. Managing the condition typically involves regular blood sugar monitoring, dietary adjustments, exercise, and medication.

Stonestreet acknowledged that he has come to understand the grave nature of his condition, stating, “I just decided, thanks to some good doctors and getting older, that I needed to take my type two diabetes seriously.” This decision has proven beneficial, informing various aspects of his life and health.

One of Stonestreet’s strategies for managing his diabetes involves gamifying his health checks. He explained how he keeps track of his blood sugar levels after meals, turning the experience into a challenge rather than a chore. “I know what my numbers have to be after every meal,” he elaborated. “Figure out what your numbers are and need to be after you eat, and then it tells you what you can eat and what you can’t eat.”

The actor believes that moderation is key. He has found joy in allowing himself to enjoy his favourite foods but in smaller portions. “Just knowing how many French fries I can have, how big of an ice cream cone I can have that doesn’t take my sugars to another level,” he noted. Stonestreet’s approach promotes balance rather than deprivation, a mindset that has led him to thrive despite the challenges of diabetes.

Sharing his personal struggle with the condition has not always been easy for Stonestreet. He admitted to feeling embarrassed about his diagnosis for years, particularly due to societal perceptions surrounding weight and illness. “I was embarrassed for many years about telling people because of the way I look,” he confessed. He has faced judgement, often receiving comments indicating that his weight was an obvious cause of his diabetes.

However, Stonestreet pointed out that type 2 diabetes affects individuals regardless of their physique. “It comes in many different shapes and packages,” he explained, noting that even prominent athletes, such as marathon runners, can live with the condition. He hopes to change the narrative surrounding the illness, asserting that one can manage diabetes effectively, regardless of their appearance.

By illuminating his journey towards better health, Stonestreet aims to inspire others facing similar challenges. He is passionate about raising awareness regarding the seriousness of type 2 diabetes, asserting, “I hope I inspire people to get serious about their type two diabetes because it’s no joke.” Touching on his progress, he affirmed that since taking control of his condition, various other aspects of his life have also improved.

Stonestreet’s story serves as a reminder that living with type 2 diabetes doesn’t have to mean sacrificing one’s love for food or lifestyle. His empowering narrative can resonate with those affected by the condition, encouraging them to take the steps needed for better health, much like he has done over the years.

Through a combination of smart choices, portion control, and a focus on the positive aspects of life, Stonestreet is not just managing his diabetes; he is thriving while doing so.