“…so, what’s your deal, lady? We’ve heard and read them all,” you might be saying.
Here’s my story.
My Yearly Checkup That Changed Everything
I went in for my yearly doctor’s checkup—the kind where they say, “Okay, let’s draw some labs and check your vitals.” That same weekend, we left to visit family back home and had the loveliest time. Lots of good food, lots of eating out… you know how it goes.
When we got home from our little “vacation,” I realized I’d put on a few pounds. It was time to get serious. That’s when I officially decided to start my weight loss journey.
But—hold up—I still had to go in for my bloodwork.
Getting My Bloodwork Results Before My Birthday
I ended up getting my labs done a few days before my birthday. BIG. MISTAKE. I had that gut feeling that something wouldn’t come back great. Sure enough, I received an email notification from the patient portal and saw the results.
I don’t know if it was a good thing or a bad thing, but at least I had some idea of what I was walking into before my appointment the following week.
I saw my provider the day after my birthday. And yes—I indulged that weekend. Vanilla cake with strawberries. A loaded baked potato with my steak for my special dinner. Flavored coffee with regular syrups and whole milk. I did it all, and I enjoyed every bite.
Hearing the Words: Type 2 Diabetes
That following Tuesday, my provider confirmed what I had already seen: Type 2 Diabetes.
I wasn’t completely shocked, but it still took a toll on my psyche. It’s never something you want to hear. My mind immediately went to all the family members who have—or had—it, including both of my parents.
I asked if I could try to get things under control on my own, without medication, until my three-month check-in. I had already started walking and was determined to bring my A1C down.
My provider agreed, even though she told me most doctors would typically start medication right away. She said she could tell I was serious—and that meant everything to me.
What I Changed First: Diet and Movement
I left knowing I needed to change my diet. And what’s the first thing you think of? Yep—cut carbs.
I didn’t just cut carbs; I nearly eliminated them altogether. I focused on vegetables and lean protein. I kept up with my walking and exercise and did this for about a month.
I was losing weight, which I loved, but my fasting blood sugar numbers weren’t dropping as much as I hoped.
The Program That Finally Clicked
That’s when I decided to try a program, I had seen from a business pair I followed on Instagram. They seemed knowledgeable, and I had already started doing some resistance training they shared.
It turned out to be the best decision I could’ve made—not just for me, but for my husband too, who had been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes the year before.
It was a six-week, plant-based meal plan paired with education about insulin resistance and how things work (or don’t) at the cellular level. I had watched plenty of other people online trying to sell programs, but this one just clicked for me.
My Exercise Routine During the 6 Weeks
During that time, I walked about 3.3 miles five to six days a week, did resistance training three days a week, and added in other exercises to support my changing body.
I felt great. I looked great. And my fasting blood sugar numbers were finally coming down.
By the end of the six weeks, I had lost 20 pounds—and who knows how many inches.
My 3-Month Checkup and A1C Results
At my three-month check-up in early December, my A1C had dropped from 10.4% to 6.2%. I was down 40 pounds since my last visit and several clothing sizes.
My provider was ecstatic. She couldn’t believe the progress I had made.
Technically, I’m still considered pre-diabetic—but I’m continuing to work on it. This is my new lifestyle now: eating better, exercising, and moving my body regularly.
How I Feel Now (And Why I’m Not Going Back)
I still have a ways to go to reach my goal weight, but I can’t even begin to explain how much better I feel.
When I’m tired now, it’s because I’ve been moving. Before, I was tired all the time. I was in bed constantly. I had no energy.
I used to tell my doctor that I knew exercise would help—but I was just too exhausted most days to get out of bed. I think a bit of depression crept in too. It became a vicious cycle I knew I needed to break, but I didn’t know how—and it felt like no one really wanted to help.
Today, I’m so grateful I took the time to figure it out and put in the work. I want to be awesome. I want to live life to the fullest.
I don’t know everything—and that’s okay. But I do know what I can keep working on to be the best version of myself. And in the end, that’s what really matters.
If you’re on a similar journey—or just starting to ask questions—I’d love to hear from you
Before you go…
This post reflects my personal experience and is not medical advice. Always talk with your healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine.
Take care, friend,
G