Before
I thought I was practicing self-love and had a good handle on my health. I felt confident and made an effort to care for myself. However, like many mothers, I often prioritized everything but my own well-being, neglecting routine checkups and follow-ups.
Unbeknownst to me, I was silently developing Type 2 Diabetes. Over the previous year, I experienced what I assumed were severe anxiety attacks, but they seemed to strike without warning. Whether I was shopping, driving, or dining out, I was hit with feelings of dizziness, panic, and a racing heart. My anxiety about these episodes grew, and I became trapped in a cycle of constant fear.
As time passed, I noticed a troubling brain fog that was increasingly difficult to ignore. I dismissed my symptoms for too long. Tingling fingers? Just a restless night. Feeling strange after dessert? Perhaps I’m just not a fan of sweets anymore. Headaches after physical activity? Maybe I needed to hydrate more. By 2 PM, I was completely drained and thought I just needed to get to bed earlier.
This pattern continued until November 2017 when I finally decided to consult a doctor for lab work to ensure everything was alright. I was stunned when my doctor informed me that I had dangerously high levels of Type 2 Diabetes. My A1C was 11, and my average blood sugar was over 300—numbers that the diabetes glucose charts classify as “slow motion suicide.”
I realized that in neglecting my health, I was causing harm to my body. I believed I was making the right choices, but I was consuming the wrong foods and ignoring the warning signs. My body was crying out for help, but I failed to listen. I left the clinic with a prescription for insulin and an appointment with a specialist.
The thought of self-injection terrified me. I felt an overwhelming mix of sadness and anger—both directed at myself and my body. How could I have neglected my own self-love when it was so desperately needed? Those “panic attacks” were actually symptoms of my dangerously high blood sugar levels.
Suddenly, everything made sense—the brain fog, the various symptoms I had experienced. When I spoke to the pharmacist, he mentioned that it would take a few days to get my insulin. I decided to take immediate action by changing my diet, doing something proactive while I awaited my medication. I reached out to a knowledgeable friend who suggested an eating plan aimed at reversing diabetes and emphasized the importance of walking—lots of walking.
I started my new dietary regimen right away. The next day, my blood sugar levels had already dropped significantly compared to my lab results. Each day that followed, my glucose levels continued to decrease. My insulin arrived, but I was curious to see how low my levels could go without it. The trend continued, and within two weeks, my blood sugar fell into the normal range. In just 14 days, I transformed my health from “slow motion suicide” levels to normal. By the next week, my levels stabilized without any fluctuations. I felt revitalized, free from brain fog and panic attacks. When I visited the specialist, he was thrilled with my progress—no medication necessary, just encouragement to maintain my new lifestyle.
After
The journey did not end; instead, it has continued. I still cherish my body and prioritize my health, but now I understand how to do it correctly. Knowledge is power; I now fuel my body with nourishing foods and walk regularly—whether with friends, family, or alone. I truly enjoy being active.
Recently, I had new lab work done and met with my specialist again. He was astonished by my results, which indicated a complete reversal of my diabetes. Although my new labs show no signs of diabetes, I will always be considered diabetic—there is no cure, only management and mindful eating.
I achieved this remarkable transformation in a short time frame and am on the path to healing. I hope that in the future, I won’t have to be as strict with my food choices. For now, I focus on the positives I’ve incorporated into my life rather than the limitations. I’ve spent more time outdoors with friends, discovered new healthy recipes, and engaged my family in more physical activities. This new lifestyle is something I can sustain.
While I’m proud of reversing my diabetes, I want to emphasize that this isn’t about weight loss. Please refrain from commenting on my appearance or size; my previous weight did not determine my worth. My body was unhealthy internally, but that doesn’t imply that everyone who is not a size six is on the verge of developing diabetes. My experience is a testament to taking responsibility for one’s health rather than a before-and-after narrative focused solely on physical appearance.
I may be classified as “overweight” and still not at an “ideal” weight, but my weight loss is not the focus. I’m not disclosing numbers because they are irrelevant. My priority is my health—both physical and mental. I have no goal weight; my only aim is to maintain stable blood sugar levels and happiness.
I won’t detail the specifics of my diet, as I refuse to promote a one-size-fits-all approach. What works for me may not be suitable for others. So, please, don’t ask me about my diet. I’m not on a diet; I’m embracing real foods that nourish my body and avoiding those that don’t.
The essence of my journey is this: if you’re experiencing symptoms that you’ve been ignoring, or if you have an instinct that something isn’t right, seek medical advice. You can’t address what you’re unaware of. Love your body and yourself, but part of that love involves listening to your body and taking care of your health. I failed to do that for too long. Don’t neglect your health like I did. Make yourself a priority. I finally am.
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Summary
My transformative journey from neglecting my health to actively reversing Type 2 Diabetes has taught me the importance of self-care and listening to my body. By changing my diet and incorporating regular exercise, I achieved remarkable improvements in my health. This experience has shown me that true wellness goes beyond appearance—it’s about prioritizing our overall health and happiness.