Grazing each day keeps the doctor away

Bev Odegaard was making many visits to her doctor for type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, and each time her sugar and blood pressure levels were on the rise. Fed up with taking three medications for her blood pressure and two for diabetes, she took control of her situation, and joined the L A Weight Loss program.

While she rarely ate junk food, Bev had difficulty with portion control. Now, having changed her eating habits by incorporating more vegetables and low-fat foods, she’s reached and has maintained her goal weight of 129 lbs. She’s completely off her diabetes medication, and is only taking two to control her blood pressure. Fantastic work, Bev!

Recently retired from a long career in the nursing field, she is looking forward to spending her time with her two grandchildren. And, now that she finds it easier to walk in the park, those years are sure to be golden.

Here's Bev at 216 pounds:

And now a confident, medicine-free 129 pounds!

FAST FACTS

Name: Bev Odegaard
Hometown: McFarland, Wis.
Age: 64

Starting weight: 216 pounds
Goal weight: 129 pounds
Current weight: 129 pounds
Program start date: May 2005

Favorite foods: Whole wheat bread, beef, pork, squash, and green veggies.

Biggest temptation: Eating large portions of food.

Biggest motivator: Her grandchildren.

Biggest obstacle: Exercising.

Old eating philosophy: Slathering everything with lots of butter.

New eating philosophy: Eating seasonal foods, including fresh garden spinach and corn on the cob.

Best thing about losing weight: Having a lot more energy.

Best weight loss secret learned: Her self-esteem is now sky-high!