My weight struggles began twenty-eight (28) years ago after the birth of my twin boys when I gained a whopping 45 pounds. To lose the weight, I started dieting and tried many a weight loss programs for almost three decades.
Instead of sustainable weight loss, I weight-cycled because these fad diets were so restrictive and unsustainable. Feeling food deprived, I quickly went back to my old destructive way of eating and my health suffered as a result. Both my blood pressure and cholesterol levels were high, so my medical doctor prescribed hypertension and cholesterol medication.
My self-esteem was at an all-time low. I felt fat and unattractive, and my self-pity led to a deep dark time in my life. My journey could be characterized as a roller coaster ride of trials, many errors and lots of finances without the results I so desperately wanted.
In 2021 I had another visit with my doctor who gave me the unwelcoming news that my HbA1c test results showed that I was very close to being Pre-diabetic. After her firm warning, I knew I had to make some lifestyle and dietary changes but didn’t know who to call or where to begin- and I was scared about my deteriorating health.
I live in Canada but was scheduled to be in Barbados for approximately six months, so I started researching weight loss clinics in Barbados and found Optimal Wellness Centre. I made that call back in September 2022 and spoke with Pamela who told me about her L.E.A.N Program.
Unlike the other weight loss diets, programs and even some gimmicks I have experienced in the past, the L.E.A.N Program is more than just weight loss. It is a lifestyle program that is geared towards improving your overall health. The Program has four key pillars one of which is using plant-based nutrition to improve health issues. I can truly say for the first time in my weight loss journey, I have found a plan that allows me flexibility while eating clean and that focuses on my health.
It has been 120 days since I started my transformation journey with Pamela, and I can’t believe the amazing changes I have already experienced. My energy levels are much higher, my dietary choices are much cleaner, and I survived a two-week cruise without compromising my nutrition. I am exercising more, losing the excess pounds (have shed 15lbs so far) and I don’t crave meat anymore. I loved oxtails, goat, lamb and of course chicken and never thought the day would come when I cook ham at Christmas and do not eat any. At times, I still have fish and struggling with deserts on special occasions, but I will eventually get there, step by step.
Pamela is such a motivator and sometimes when I felt like giving up she was there for me all the way. She ensures that you have access to important tools, community support, resources, and principles to be successful on your journey – that is what has helped me to be where I am today. I am finally in control of my life and making the right choices to live responsibly.
Doctor’s Update
After my full blood testing in December 2022, I am very happy to update that in addition to my weight loss, there is significant improvement in my blood sugar and cholesterol levels. My medical doctor has reduced my cholesterol and my blood pressure medication in half and I no longer need to take the prescription vitamin D. Although my blood sugar level has improved to 5.2 from 5.7 my doctor wants to see it reduced some more. This a huge blessing!!!!
My journey continues as I am not where I want to be yet. By God’s grace, my goal is to achieve the results I want and deserve in 2023. Stay tuned, the journey continues ❤️
Marcia Miller-Canada
Comments