An American Epidemic

January 2012

1st I can't believe it's already 2012, (And it's already February!)

A few months ago I found out I was insulin resistant. I had not lost any weight after having Nathan (July 2011) despite reducing calories and exercising (we're talking hour long workouts at Zumba!) so I was pretty discouraged and approached my doctor about it. She sent me in for some labs. My thyroid and actual blood sugar levels are great but my insulin levels were through the roof- just barely below having actual type 2 diabetes. Needless to say, I was relieved that there was a reason I hadn't been able to lose weight but at the same time, a whole new set of worries and questions began rolling around in my mind- what now?

My Dr. recommended this book: The Insulin Resistance Diet by Cheryle R. Hart, M.D. and Mary Kay Grossman, R.D.

I hemmed and hawed about getting it, probably because I was partly in denial and mostly because who wants to start a diet during the holidays?!?!

I finally ordered it online and read it in less than a week. It has truly changed how I look at food and exercise!

First, it's not a diet at all. I like to call it a nutrition plan. I can literally eat whatever I want to eat, I only have to be careful about when I eat it and what I eat it with (of course portion sizes are always an issue to but that's a whole other problem).

It's called the link and balance method where you simply link and balance your carbohydrate intake with your protein intake. It's simple, easy and filling (they actually want you to eat every 2 hours) Since I finished reading the book and applying the principles (2nd week of January) I have lost 7 pounds and more importantly, I feel fantastic. I have more energy and I'm more cheerful and patient.

I'm trying to remind myself every day that the changes I'm making are life long changes and that it will take a long time to make them all so I'm working to not treat setbacks or a bowl of ice cream as major obstacles, just little pebbles on a long journey. I'm learning a lot about myself, what motivates me, what tempts me, and especially how many wonderfully supportive friends and family members I have. Here's to the beginning of a journey...