Back in September, I was struggling with headaches and vision problems. I went to the doctor and found out I had a high blood sugar level of 235. I was in complete shock. I lost my mother when she was only 57 because she had diabetes and high blood pressure. I also have three boys — a 15-year-old, a 10-year-old, and an 11-month-old — and I want to be there for them. I was scared and confused about what to do, and what I could do, because I thought I didn’t have enough time to make a change. I manage most things for my family, work full-time, and take college classes, too. I had tried Thrive last year after hearing about it at work. I didn’t take it seriously then, but I knew I needed to now. Two days after my doctor’s visit, I started making changes. I downloaded the Thrive app again and started working on my diet.
“I feel much more energetic than I did before.”
I changed just about everything: I stopped eating fast food, white bread, sugar, and started drinking water instead of soda. When I have coffee, I drink it black without any cream or sugar. I also cut out butter and oils to watch my cholesterol level. Now, my diet is mainly vegetables. I’m eating a lot of broccoli and salads, and snacks like unsalted nuts and eggs for protein. I tend to stay away from fruit so I can have more control over my blood sugar level. I’ve lost 18 pounds so far and I feel much more energetic than I did before. As far as exercise, I do a lot of fast walking at work and have started parking my car a bit further away from the main door so I get more steps in. I’m also sleeping better. I make sure to turn off the T.V. and put my phone away by 9 o’clock. I’m spending extra time with my kids before bedtime and enjoying that time with them without feeling irritated or tired.
“I am proud that I have done something positive for myself.”
I knew I was on the right path when I got my blood sugar level down to 110. I also haven’t had headaches or vision problems for two months. I’m not even using my spectacles anymore! My family is very happy for me. I’m working together with my mother-in-law — who has diabetes and high blood pressure — to make food changes for the whole family. We’re making more vegetables and salads for family meals. If I hadn’t made these changes, I might have ended up on medication. Doing the Challenge has helped me avoid diabetes, high blood pressure, and deal with stress. I’ve realized just how precious life is, and I am proud that I have done something positive for myself.
—Rajwinder Kaur, Marysville, CA; $5K Winner
Small daily choices can lead to life-changing results. Download the Thrive App today to improve your well-being. For more inspiring stories, follow Thrive on Facebook and Instagram.