Debra's Story, September 2007

I have tried numerous “healthy eating programs” with little or no success. Weight Watchers worked for me when I was in my 20’s and 30’s but now, I have three health issues that seemed to get in the way. (1) I had my gall bladder removed (2) I am Asthmatic and use two daily doses of Advair (with steroids) (3) I am over 50 years old.

I took the Healthy Eating classes from Sarah with Healthy Utah. This motivated me to do something to feel better physically and emotionally. I learned in my Healthy Eating classes at Healthy Utah about the importance of eating a variety of healthy foods including 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. I decided to do Weight Watchers Core with a twist. I eat the Core Program without the 1 starch a day and without the extra 35 points a week. I also made a point to eat Protein at all my meals.

Debra

Miraculously the weight started coming off at a very steady pace. Now I don’t get discouraged but I get motivated as I am seeing results.

I eat all the lean meats I want to be full
I eat all the fruits and vegetables I want to be full (Except Potatoes)
I eat all the fat free dairy I want to be full

I do not eat bread, pasta, potatoes, chips, rice or popcorn. I do, however, eat corn on the cob. I stay away from sweets but occasionally have a small 1 or 2 point Weight Watcher product or sugar free gum.

I usually have a protein drink and a piece of fruit for breakfast on a work day. I eat steak and eggs on my days off for breakfast. I try to drink lots of water, and I take a daily vitamin.

Healthy Utah motivated me to get started and taught me a lot about healthy foods and nutrition. I eat enough food to be full so I don’t feel deprived. I am now eating the right types of foods so I can eat more.

My Husband has been very supportive. I cook dinner for us with lean meat, salad and a vegetable. He is genetically thin so he does not need to lose weight but he eats what I eat to support me. I have gone from a tight size 16 pants to a size 10 dress slacks.

My goal was 10 lbs at a time. When I weighed 198, I was anxious to be in the 180’s, when I was 189, I was anxious to be in the 170’s, when I was 179, I was anxious to be in the 160’s, and so on and so forth. I am now very close to my goal weight of 135 which is very exciting.

I haven’t really had any obstacles because I was ready to make these changes in my life. I pack a lunch from home every day and prepare healthy meals for dinner. I always take an apple, grapes or another snack to meetings where I know food will be served.

I haven’t been to a current Healthy Utah Testing Session but am anxious to attend one.

My advice for others is “You can do it too!”

Tell Us Your Story!

Healthy Utah invites you to share your wellness success story. By doing so, we are able to educate our members of the importance of making healthy changes for life. They will be a resource and inspiration to help others improve their health. Download a Success Story Form (Word document).