YDPP: A Life Saving Recipe for Change

Diabetes is a complicated disease that has reached epidemic proportions. It is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. My diabetic father developed kidney failure, was on dialysis 12 years, and is now deceased. Due to uncontrolled hemoglobin A1C levels, my husband recently had diabetic ulcers and neuropathy on his feet, and was on disability for several months. I was overcome by fear for the past couple of years and often worried about what I could do to stop or slow the risk of developing the disease for myself and children. Repeated attempts to go on fad diets, lose weight quickly, or engage in rigorous exercise regimes, all resulted in short-term results and long-term disappointment. My doctor said I must lose weight or anticipate developing diabetes. I thank God for my daughter who alerted me to the YDPP program. YDPP’s ingredients: food selection, plus physical activity, plus peer support, result in a lifesaving recipe for change. I strongly recommend it to anyone who wants to improve their odds of not getting diabetes.

My daughter & I joined the YDPP program together after witnessing far too many family members suffer from the debilitating effects of diabetes. Our experience is saving our lives. Learning how to be a calorie and fat detective, as outlined in week 2 & 3, was a turning point for me. The rigid tracking of food and beverage intake is critical to sustainable success. I am amazed at how simple portion control and replacement of foods such as fast food breakfast sandwiches with oatmeal or low-calorie/fat cereals, and sweet tea or pop replaced with seltzer water or diet pop actually melt away the pounds. I remain motivated to increase activity because the YDPP encourages non-traditional tracking of physical movement (dancing while doing housework, shopping is considered walking, chair exercises is just as good as “work outs”); keep it moving all counts and really burns calories and pounds. I can’t say enough about the last ingredient. Positive encouragement from peers, our coach Rose, and intern Mary serve as a constant reminder that we can do this! We developed an unbreakable bond and no one is afraid to share the highs and lows of making a permanent life style change.

In summary, diabetes is a critical health concern and complications could be deadly. YDPP’s approach is effective in reducing weight, therefore reduces the risk for diabetes. I learned how to make healthier food choices (lower calorie & fat), increase activity, and engage in peer support. Each participant adds something special to the basic recipe; we are now ready for maintenance and continued improved health.

Diabetes can be stopped; I encourage others to save their lives and join YDPP!