Never in a million years did I think I would be reflecting on, no less writing about succeeding at weight-loss. I’ve had many other accomplishments in my life that I am incredibly proud of but could never seem to apply those same goal oriented disciplines to adopt and sustain a healthy lifestyle.
All of that changed for me this past December when a good friend shared his 100lb weight loss story. I was so proud of him and fascinated by his results. During our conversation I became so inspired that I knew I had to try again. This posed a big risk for me because the emotional distress associated with so many previous failures felt like more than I could bear but regardless I felt a sudden urge to proceed.
My friend directed me to his physician and the Mindful Living Institute. Everything changed the moment I met this doctor. After a thorough exam including a comprehensive lab work up and other precautionary tests, I decided to follow her recommended weight-loss program. The program was like nothing I had ever tried before. Not only was the food tasty but their system was easy to follow. They provide endless amounts of support and create custom health care plans for patients needing to lose weight. In fact I encourage you to check out a typical visit of mine with my health coach.
The Mindful Living protocol can be described as a modified ketogenic diet. Unlike traditional keto plans, this adapted version has a higher ratio of protein offset by a lower proportion of fat. In both cases, carbohydrates are extremely limited. Studies have revealed that this modified version has resulted in longer-term success rates compared to traditional Keto plans.
Unfortunately, I am predisposed to Type II diabetes which was the root cause of many illnesses that lead to my Mother’s untimely death at just 49 years old. She lost her leg due to severe circulation problems, in addition to a myriad of other ailments brought on by this debilitating disease. Presently, my Father is also suffering from diabetic induced conditions. The most scary one being the loss of his eyesight. It breaks my heart to see him struggle with the challenges associated with becoming legally blind among other severe symptoms.
My family genetic history is of major concern for me for the obvious reasons. My Mother had obesity while my Father did not. Nevertheless, the odds were not in my favor. I have struggled with obesity most of my adult life and for these reasons, I am desperately trying to change my lifestyle. My ketogenic approach is helping me do just that. I am starting to win my battle and ultimately my war with obesity
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My daily diet consists of about 1,200 calories on average with the highest macronutrient concentration on protein followed by fat and lastly carbohydrates. After some trial and error at the onset of my program, I learned after a few short weeks that limiting my carbohydrates to 30 grams or less per day was the sweet spot for me. My weight began to consistently reduce once I figured out the right mix. My main meals consist of meats and vegetables and the vast majority of the carbs I am consuming are coming from the veggies. I turn to some high protein snacks when I need a snack. I also drink plenty of water and have just recently started walking 150 minutes per week on the treadmill.
Ketogenic diets are particularly effective for diabetics because once the body enters a state of ketosis; it begins to burn fat as its primary energy source rather than sugar. In turn, the body naturally generates its own insulin. I am not a doctor but I have done significant research on this and consult with my physician (the same one my friend recommendedJ) and my health coach every week. Together we are setting goals that are reasonable and abiding to a program that is safe. I am not interested in any fad or gimmicky trend products so my medical supervision is very important to me.
When I began my journey in December, in addition to my weight issues and being pre-diabetic, I’d also suffered from severe allergies and a condition called cough-variant asthma. This form of asthma manifests in persistent coughing due in large part to inflammation amidst the airways which also lead to severe sleep apnea in my case. I was just a hot mess.
Sleep deprived all the time, endless exhaustion, and embarrassing bouts of coughing. One of the benefits of a ketogenic diet is that it inherently reduces inflammation in the body. After my first couple months on the program I noticed major improvements with my asthma and now 111 days and 48lbs later am not taking any asthma medications. I have not had to use my rescue inhaler in months and that constant humiliating coughing is gone. It’s incredible and defies all logic for me but it’s absolutely true. I am no longer pre-diabetic and all of my other vitals are great. I feel blessed to have normal cholesterol and blood pressure levels despite being about half way through my weight loss journey. I am still in shock at the difference this has made in a relatively short amount of time. I cannot wait to see what happens in the upcoming months!
Now please let me be clear that I am NOT pushing a ketogenic lifestyle. I’m simply sharing the secret to my own success. I recognize there are many effective programs out there that can lead to long-term success. I am a huge advocate of finding what works for you. We are all made differently and thankfully there are numerous ways to treat obesity which by the way is a disease. I urge you to find the best option for you then embrace it and act consistently to ensure success. Keep yourself surrounded by a good support system whatever that might be for you. Friends, family, and your online social network can be the inspiration you need to stay motivated. If you are lacking support in one aspect, find it in another because no one ever has to endure this struggle alone. Finally, don’t give up! Some days are harder than others but we are all in this for the long hauls so don’t beat yourself up on the days you make a bad decision and/or lose your motivation. Instead turn to others to help you through it.
If you’ve read this far, I sincerely thank you for allowing me to share a little more about myself and my approach. Please consider joining my support group “Losing with Lisa” on Facebook where you will meet new friends and experience a genuine supportive environment.
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