Dietary Changes & Health Reset

It was about 7 1/2 years ago that my doctor said, "You're 296lbs." My response was rapid, "I'll never be 300lbs in my life!". Thus began a Health Reset where I lost 130lbs. Initially, I did things on my own, after all I've been a chef since 15 growing up in restaurants owned by my family along with other businesses. After a time with some success, my PCP suggested I visit the "Healthy Living Center" of our local Hospital system.

Changing Lifestyle

They wanted me to consider Bariatric surgery, which I refused. It had not been successful for a relative and several friends over time. I continued checking in, logging food, increasing exercise and eventually put in contact with a doctor at the Mayo Clinic. After review of my information I was told I was following a "Blue Zones" lifestyle. I was not familiar with that and began looking into it. 5 areas of the world where people live into their 90s with relatively little chronic disease. I have immersed myself in this lifestyle, and it is more than just diet. I follow predominantly a Mediterranean diet, natural movement, connection with others, and rebuilt my level of spiritualism & faith. Interesting in this, I at one time worked for a large fast food chain for many years, at one point overseeing over 100 restaurants. So yes, I did eat fast food, although as a chef I altered the final preparation many times. Believe it or not, you can eat relatively healthy at most with modification.

Prostate Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease

During this health reset I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer, as well as found to have a Mitral Prolapse/Regurgitation called a heart murmur for all my life. My dietary changes cleared me of Psoriasis & Gout (found in my paternal side) as well as improved my essential high blood pressure. - I do eat meat, although less frequently and in smaller portions. I always enjoyed vegetables so it was no problem adapting a plate built around vegetables. I grew up in a dairy area but did eliminate milk, but still eat some cheese as well as non-fat Greek yogurt. ADT was not a friend and I did gain about 25 lbs and after ending 2 years on it in May 2024 now moving to lose that weight.

Cutting back on fast food

I also cut down how much I will eat out as I know the perils of food in restaurants, both fast and otherwise. Poor quality fats, high sodium, added sugar are some of those perils. My diet now focuses on lowered sodium & added sugar, low saturated fat, reduced meat consumption with a good level of exercise (2-3 miles most mornings out with my dog). My doctors feel it has definitely assisted with my positive outcomes so far on my journey with Prostate Cancer. As I tell anyone, "It has not stopped me!".