Rising chef Jordan Johnson has spoken out about his recent diagnosis with a chronic health condition. The young culinary star, who this month gained recognition on the hit series MasterChef The Professionals, has revealed he was grappling with health issues during his time on the BBC programme.
Now, it has been confirmed that Jordan is contending with type 1 diabetes, a serious condition where the body fails to produce insulin, essential for controlling blood sugar levels. Without management, this can escalate into diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous accumulation of acid in the bloodstream.
“I had the privilege of competing on this years MasterChef The Professionals @masterchefuZ. It was an unforgettable experience, sharing the kitchen with some truly incredible chefs. The talent, camaraderie, and intensity of the competition were second none,” said the junior sous chef, reports BirminghamLive.
“What many people didn’t know is that during this, I wasn’t feeling my best. At the time, I didn’t understand why. Since then, I’ve been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes which was quite a life-changing discovery that answered a lot of questions. Looking back, it’s clear I wasn’t competing at my full potential, but I gave it everything I had, and I’m proud of what I accomplished.
“Living with type 1 is a challenge, but it’s also been a reminder of how resilient we can be when faced with adversity. I’m learning how to adapt, both in life and in the kitchen, and I’m more determined than ever to keep pushing boundaries.”
Jordan, who works at the Birmingham Michelin-starred restaurant Simpsons, expressed gratitude towards his competitors and loved ones for their support throughout his journey. He further mentioned that while diabetes has become a significant part of his life, it isn’t ‘the whole story’.
He reportedly continued: “To my fellow competitors, it was a privilege to cook alongside you, you’re all phenomenal. And to anyone living with type 1 or navigating a diagnosis, know that it doesn’t stop you from chasing your dreams.
“Diabetes is part of my story now, but it’s not the whole story. Onwards and upwards.” Recent estimates suggest that more than 5.6 million people have diabetes in the UK, which is an ‘all-time high’, according to Diabetes UK.
The majority of these cases are type 2 diabetes, accounting for about 90%, while 8% suffer from type 1, and the remaining 2% have other rarer types. The NHS outlines that key symptoms of type 1 diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, tiredness, and unexplained weight loss.
Blurred vision, odd-smelling breath, and slow-healing cuts are also among its other little-known signs. Current NHS advice states: “Type 1 diabetes usually starts in children and young adults, but it can happen at any age.
“You’re more likely to get it if you have other problems with your immune system (autoimmune conditions), or if others in your family have type 1 diabetes or other autoimmune conditions. The symptoms are similar to type 2 diabetes, but type 2 diabetes usually develops more slowly and is more common in older people.”