My Turning Point…
I remember that morning vividly. The life I had known was suddenly gone, replaced by a stark reality: I had to knuckle down and take care of myself. To be honest, I was too scared not to.
After a whirlwind of hospital tests that mostly came back "normal," I finally got the answer I had been avoiding for years: Celiac Disease. Looking back, I think I always knew. But for a long time, I chose to ignore it and eat gluten anyway, simply because I didn't want to be a "burden" to anyone else. Combined with the weight of chronic stress and the daily struggle of IBS, my body was finally waving a white flag.
Then, my doctor did something I’ll never forget.
He didn't just hand me a prescription and walk out. He sat on the edge of my hospital bed and gave me the kind of stern, honest talk I desperately needed. He told me I needed to lose 40 pounds. He told me to stop eating out and start cooking at home. He told me to start walking and to treat my body with respect.
His nutritional advice was refreshingly simple: "If it didn't come from a plant, an animal, the ground, or a tree—don’t eat it." He warned me to fix my blood sugar issues before they spiraled out of control.
I know what you’re thinking: “A hospital doctor actually said that?” Yes, he did. It was a speech that scared me, but it also saved me. I listened, and I remembered every single word.
Fast forward eighteen months.
Losing the 40 pounds was just the beginning. Now, my "Simply Nourished" life is about more than just a number—it’s about building muscle and staying flexible so I can show up fully for my life. I’m not interested in burnout or over-extending myself; I’m interested in sustainable health. By sticking to a diet of real, whole foods and I’m proving that taking control of your health is a journey that only gets better with time.
This journey has never been just about the number on the scale; it’s about the freedom that comes from being truly nourished. I finally stopped worrying about being a "burden" to others and started focusing on being healthy for myself.
Am I perfect? Not exactly. During that first year, I was 100% committed to the letter of the law. Eventually, I found a balance that allowed for a meal out or a favorite dessert once a month. However, I still cook 99% of my meals at home, and when I travel, I always pack my own food. I’ve learned that I’d rather be prepared than be surprised. This is the rhythm that worked for me—it’s not a strict rulebook for you, but a testament to what’s possible when you prioritize your well-being.