Jeannie’s Story

When I was 62, I read about the health coaching available at ConnectCare3, a benefit provided through my employer. I have Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and had put on some unwanted pounds over the years. My father passed away suddenly when he was 45, so my family’s health history is always on my mind. I occasionally experienced shortness of breath after climbing stairs or lifting heavy objects. I viewed working with a health coach as a grand opportunity to make some lifestyle changes and become healthier.

The health coach assigned to me asked about my level of physical activity. Six years ago, I had developed a habit of walking almost six miles daily, but then my neighbor moved, and that routine ended. My health coach also asked about my dietary habits. I consider myself a healthy eater, but my favorite beverage is decaffeinated iced tea sweetened with sugar.  Being totally honest and discussing my diet and level of physical activity with my health coach was a great place to start and enabled her to know areas that needed to be addressed.

My health coach asked me to keep a 3-day food log. When she discovered I wasn’t a breakfast person, she encouraged me to start eating three small meals each day. We also discussed the importance of building balanced meals, which include protein, carbs, and veggies. She then provided MyPlate and portion sizes as a reference. She suggested adding additional fruits and vegetables throughout the day and drinking water consistently. I also spoke with one of the Registered Dietitians at ConnectCare3. I learned more about nutrition and the specific impact it has on my blood sugar and Type 2 diabetes.

Working with a ConnectCare3 health coach has benefited me in multiple ways:

• I have become very mindful of food choices, look at food differently now, and know that this mindset is important for maintaining long-term sustainable habits.
• I can read a food label now more effectively and know how to calculate calories based on serving size, the number of calories that come from macronutrients, and whether a food is too high or low in a particular nutrient. This helps me limit saturated fats, trans fats, sodium and added sugars.
• I received an informative education on how carbohydrates affect blood sugar. With my dietary changes, I’ve kept my blood glucose consistently between 120-130 and avoided frequent spikes. I now also understand how exercise can affect my blood sugar and strive to walk after eating.
• My cholesterol is now back within normal limits.
• After not being physically active for years, I now ride a stationary bike and walk my dog every day. I also do a stretching routine, knee-strengthening exercises, and resistance training with bands. I’ve noticed a change in how I feel in the afternoon. I’m not as sluggish, have more energy, and sleep better. I attribute this to getting exercise and making dietary changes.
• I implemented strategies to improve getting to sleep at night and believe that exercising more has improved my quality of sleep.
• I have lost 35 pounds! I feel in control of my diet as I have learned to limit my portion sizes, make healthy food choices, and no longer put sugar in my iced tea!

My ConnectCare3 health coach motivated me with her knowledge, accountability, and by being my cheerleader. I am confident in maintaining the good routines I’ve established when I retire. I prefer getting up and moving in the morning and plan to walk the dog and bike each day—many thanks to my health coach for being the jump start I needed to improve my health.