David’s Journey to Happiness and a Renewed Lifestyle

Having joined the Mayo Clinic Diet over one year ago, David has lost over 60 pounds and is enjoying his newfound energy.

The motivation for change

“I knew it was time to get healthy,” said David. “Not only was my weight, blood pressure and blood work going in the wrong direction, but I found that my energy level was declining. Overall, I was not happy with my appearance. What really motivated me was when I was classified as ‘morbidly obese.’ I knew then it was time to make a change.”

Facing challenges

David explained how—for years—he felt like he was on a rollercoaster ride with his weight and health fluctuating up and down. “I was eating well and exercising consistently, but my body couldn’t keep up. The extra weight caused additional strain on my joints and the pain was getting in the way.” David shared that although he was eating well, he was eating too much and realized he needed help controlling his portion sizes. “I was at the point where I was ready to start a program that would give me the tools to succeed while putting me in the right mindset.”

A journey to wellness

In January 2024, David joined the Mayo Clinic Diet and quickly adapted to the program and online tools. “It was motivating to see how quickly the weight started coming off. I was finally starting to feel better about myself.” He explained how the program is not only a diet but a resource that provides lifestyle tools that helped him succeed. “Understanding my behavior—along with planning and tracking—are key,” David stated.

"Learning and practicing portion control and balancing my meals overall have been paramount in bringing me this far in my weight-loss journey.” Even at times when his weight plateaued or returned—the tools and process of the Mayo Clinic Diet quickly helped David get back on track.

Celebrating the wins

David was thrilled to share that not only has he lost 61 pounds this past year, but reduced six inches off his waist, four inches across his chest, and is down several pants and shirt sizes! “It’s an amazing feeling to know that the time and dedication I’m spending planning, tracking and adjusting my lifestyle is truly paying off!” David shared some additional off-scale victories as well. “I am no longer classified as ‘morbidly obese,’” he said proudly. “My blood work is now in ‘normal’ range and my doctor has reduced my blood pressure medication by half.” As for his lifestyle, David said he’s more energetic than ever. “I started jogging again after 10 years and I’m playing 18 holes of golf walking with a pushcart—no driving for me!” He said he’s even increased the intensity of his workouts by adding calisthenics. “My exercise routines have become ‘more friendly,’” he explained. “I’m now enjoying faster recovery times, even with the more intense workouts. I feel great and have more energy than I ever dreamed possible.”

Enjoying and maintaining a healthy lifestyle

Over the course of one year, David’s journey has not only renewed his health and lifestyle, but he’s become an overall happier person. “Losing weight is much more than diet and exercise. You must be in the right mindset and have the tools to succeed. The Mayo Clinic Diet provides all of that—and more.” Moving forward, David said he will be managing his success one day at a time. “I plan on keeping the Mayo Clinic Diet in my life. It has helped me to not only maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle, but I’ve found my smile again.”

Inspired by David? Join Mayo Clinic Diet to start your own health journey today.