A majority of the world’s population has struggled with at least one health concern, or will in the future. For some, these concerns are short-lived, such as a cold or momentary headache; for others, they’re long-lasting and vital, changing the landscape for how one daily operates.
Irene Anderson, owner of Method78 Fitness, had to adjust her life after learning she was pre-diabetic. Let’s take a look into that process and how she altered both diet and fitness to maintain a healthy body.
When did you first learn you were pre-diabetic?
IA: I think it was in my mid 30s. I just went(to the doctor’s office) because I was experiencing extreme fatigue and other low-key symptoms. My doctor said we should check blood work just to check it out.
What initial steps did your doctor tell you to take?
IA: He told me to immediately stop sugar in take as much as possible and switch to Splenda. No pink or blue packets. At the time, Splenda was the best sugar substitute. The reason why he didn’t want me to have the blue and pink packets was because they contain aspartame. He said that aspartame would have a similar effect as sugar in my body and would keep me from losing weight. At the time, there were no stevia or monk fruit sweeteners.
Which foods did you cut out, and what ones did you add?
IA: I started to cut out processed foods like white bread, white pasta, cookies, candy, soda pop, table sugar, and basically all desserts. I also started to read food labels, and that’s when I found out that sugar was added to almost anything, including spaghetti sauce. I also started adding in more vegetables and lean meat.
In order to know which foods to cut out, I had to do a lot of my own research. All the doctor told me was to not eat processed sugar. I had to find out on my own what that meant and how many foods I actually had to cut out.
Did fitness play a role in maintaining your health?
IA: Fitness played the biggest role in staying disciplined. I was already working out and doing everything at that gym. In layman's terms, I felt good, and because I felt good, I just kept doing it. I became more addicted to the feeling and was not struggling as much with fatigue.
What does your diet look like now, on a day to day basis?
IA: I’m pescatarian, which means that I eat fish, shrimp, veggies, egg whites, and a minimal amount of grains. The prediabetes has only stabilized. I hope it’s because I’ve been so healthy—and all the research I’ve done points to that. For dealing with cravings, I find temporary low-sugar treats if it’s during the week. I stick to having my treat on the weekend.
Receiving an upsetting diagnosis is bleak, and sometimes, possibilities of improving the circumstances are slim. For those who are able, work on adjusting your diet and fitness habits for better chances at maintaining a healthy life and quicker recovery from illness.
