Introduction
Like 29 million other Americans, one individual was sent home with a diet, a prescription, and a little booklet about their disease. However, as they delved into it, they uncovered a dirty truth: being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes carries the same health risks as someone who has already had one heart attack. Unlike cancer or other diseases, the objective with managing diabetes is not to cure it but to prevent complications that could negatively impact one’s quality of life or even be fatal.
Discovering the Truth
Realizing that managing diabetes would not be an option for them, this individual, a hard-charging Taipei global executive, sought help from the ambitious team at Canyon Ranch in the medical department. Over the course of five years, they embarked on a journey of discovery.
Embracing the Present
Through this journey, they learned that their body, despite being 300 pounds and having type 2 diabetes, was perfect for the way it was being nourished, moved, and rested. To achieve a different body and better health, they needed to change the equation. They realized that by envisioning their future healthy self and living that life in the present, they could determine the foods they should consume and the number of calories needed to maintain a healthy weight for a lifetime. To achieve their goal, they developed strategies that could be sustained over time.
The Power of Tracking
One key lesson was the importance of keeping track of everything. They utilized iPhone apps like “Lose It” and an UP band to monitor their sleep patterns and exercise routines. This helped them approach the game of managing their diabetes in a logical rather than emotional manner. By breaking down the journey into small, attainable battles, they found success every day.
Becoming a Science Experiment
They transformed into their own science experiment, learning valuable insights. For instance, they discovered that a lack of sleep or traveling across time zones elevated their blood sugar levels and triggered carbohydrate cravings. Instead of indulging in unnecessary food, they realized the importance of rest and napping. They also recognized that portion control was their biggest challenge, coming from a culture of unlimited shrimp and endless pasta. Adjustments were made, such as using smaller plates and chopsticks to eat more slowly. Additionally, they made a pact with themselves to eat anything they wanted as long as it was consumed with a knife and fork. This conscious approach to eating helped them better understand what they were putting into their body.
Embracing Movement
Becoming perpetually active became a way of life. They sought opportunities to move and fidget throughout the day, as even small movements could burn 200-300 calories. Counting steps, acquiring a standing desk, and incorporating a daily hour of walking became essential components of their routine. Not only did this benefit their physical well-being, but it also had a positive impact on their mental health.
Indulging in Moderation
The journey taught them that life is too short to completely deprive oneself. They took their favorite foods and conducted personal glycemic index tests with their glucose meter. By tweaking the ingredients and portion sizes, they managed to fit everything into their plan. Now, they enjoy a perfect scoop of premium ice cream every day.
The Power of the Body
Through this transformative journey, this individual discovered that given the opportunity, the body can recover. Their body became an incredible adaptive machine, healing itself. They successfully lost over 110 pounds, achieved a perfect lipid profile, and maintained a healthy blood sugar level without medication for over five years. They are no longer classified as a type 2 diabetic.
Conclusion
The journey to health requires imagination, perseverance, and strategic planning. By envisioning a healthier future self and implementing daily battles that can be won, anyone can achieve remarkable results. The key is to approach this journey as a personal experiment, learning from the valuable data that can be collected. With a determined mindset and conscious eating habits, it is possible to overcome health challenges and transform one’s life. Remember, your life depends on it.