Healthy Lives member Mandi L. has struggled to lose weight and better manage her diabetes for most of her life, but it wasn’t until she went on insulin in December 2014 that she was ready to make serious changes to improve her health. While working with her wellness coach for support and guidance, she and her family began eating a more balanced diet and began monitoring their carbohydrate and calorie intake.
To help her family prepare healthier meals at home, Mandi signed up for Farm to Work, a 10-week program in Louisiana that delivers fresh, locally-grown vegetables and fruits during the spring/summer and fall/winter growing seasons to participating worksites.
“I enjoy the convenience of the Farm to Work program to deliver fresh fruits and vegetables right to my job,” said Mandi. “It made it easy for me to make better choices.”
By participating in the program, Mandi’s entire family began eating more vegetables in place of higher-calorie, processed foods.
Mandi credits the program and support from her wellness coach for helping her lose 71 pounds in one year, lowering her cholesterol and eliminating her need for insulin.
To learn more about Farm to Work, visit ourhealthylives.org/farm-to-work. You can also take advantage of a farmers market near you to eat more fresh, nutritious, delicious and locally-grown foods.
Mandi’s Top Tips for Success:
- Get support from your family. Everyone in her family followed the same healthy eating plan.
- Make it convenient. Shop in stores or participate in programs that make it easier for you to make healthier choices.
- Don’t do it alone. Seek help from your wellness coach or healthcare provider to get encouragement and support.
About Healthy Lives
Healthy Lives is a unique approach to corporate wellness that helps employers improve their employees’ health and productivity and reduce healthcare costs through an unparalleled combination of deep clinical expertise, personal service and comprehensive solutions.