I've lost 68 pounds in six months eating Low GI Foods and exercising :-)

by Melany
(Pipestone, MN)

On March 23, my significant other of seven years was admitted to the hospital with blood sugar levels of 500+. During the five days he was in the hospital, I didn't leave his side. Before we came home, I made a deal with him; whatever he has to do, I have to do. His doctor recommended that he lose 40 pounds. His doctor also introduced us to the Glycemic Index.

When we arrived at home, I proceded to clean out our cupboards, refridgerator, and freezer throwing out all the foods that were high on the GI.

I have always enjoyed walking and riding bike. Starting slow, I walked for 30 minutes every day. I gradually began walking longer, and then I started biking. For three weeks I rode 6 miles. The first week in June I decided to ride 14 miles. That went on for a month. Then I challenged myself to ride 22 miles. I did that for a month and a half. On days that it was too windy or the weather was yucky, I would walk/run on the treadmill. I first began walking 3/4 of a mile and running 1/4 for three miles. Currently, I am walking a 1/2 mile and running a 1/2 mile for 4 miles. Now that school is back in session (yes, I'm an educator), I joined a rec center that has a recumbent bike and other equipment. I have cut down my workouts fro 7 days a week to 5 days a week.

Since the 23 of March, I have not consumed a potato of any sort, a piece of bread, or any chocolate. We have only consumed foods that are low on the GI. I have purchased The Glycemic Revolution books (big and purse size). I use them every day. I do spend a bit more time at the grocery store because I look everything up. I downloaded the Glycemic Gourmet's cook book. It is truly AWESOME.

I take special pride in the fact that I have inspired others to jump on the GI bandwagon!

Before school began this year, I cleaned out every stitch of clothing in my closet and drawers and took it to a consignment shop and to Good Will. I purchased an entirely new wardrobe in a size that I haven't worn since I was in the sixth grade!

I feel wonderful. My energy levels are off the charts. Really, I didn't run in high school or college. I run. I run. It's crazy. I also stopped taking some of my high blood pressure meds. My doctor is amazed. My family has a history of diabetes. My significant other has lost 50 pounds. He also hasn't had to take insulin since the first two weeks we were home from the hospital. He is not taking any other diabetic medication. His blood sugars currently range from 80 to 120. He feels and looks amazing.

We still have a tough road ahead. This is our life style now. It is not a diet. We live the glycemic index every day. It amazing to see the difference what you eat can make!