Maria finds strength, balance, and hope with the Mayo Clinic Diet

A fresh chapter after an MS diagnosis

Maria, a recently retired kindergarten teacher from Colorado, faced a life shift following her Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis earlier this year. While some days were filled with energy and outdoor adventure with her husband, Matt, and daughters, Isabelle and Analiese, other days were impaired by fatigue and unpredictability. Determined not to be defined by her diagnosis, Maria chose to focus on what she could control: her health and weight. In just over two months on the Mayo Clinic Diet, she’s already lost 29 pounds—and gained a renewed sense of balance and daily resilience.

Discovering science-backed support

When Maria discovered the Mayo Clinic Diet through a Google search, she was immediately drawn to its science-backed approach and practical tools. She appreciates the strong meal plans, the intuitive grocery lists, and the Habit Optimizer in the app. As Maria said, “(it is) surprising how much I look forward to writing my daily goal and celebrating past success.” That daily ritual became the foundation of her journey—a steady, gentle nudge toward healthy habits.

Enjoying variety through meal plans

Her journey through the meal plans was both delicious and empowering. She began with the Mediterranean plan, enjoying dishes like the Hummus Bliss Bowl and Roasted Tomato & Feta Bruschetta. Later, she transitioned to the Original plan, discovering favorites such as the Banana Nut Smoothie and Thai-inspired pork with citrus and herbs.

Beyond flavor, Maria also noticed that healthier choices helped her avoid sweets and packaged snacks, saving both calories and money. “My sister is thinking about joining. She is impressed by the meal plan and would like to try it for herself,” Maria shares—proof that her new lifestyle is inspiring her loved ones too.

Celebrating powerful non-scale victories

While the numbers on the scale are encouraging, what stands out most are her off-scale victories. Improved gut health has given her more comfortable mornings, and deeper, more restful sleep has lifted mental fog. She’s also noticed a marked reduction in anxiety—and “my sister noted that my skin looks great.” These changes have brought a sense of inner glow and well-being that means more than any number.

Kindness over perfection

Exercise hasn’t always been consistent, due to the unpredictability of MS—but Maria has seen steady progress regardless. “I’m losing on average 1–3 pounds each week without being able to be consistent with daily exercise,” she emphasizes. Her experience proves that mindful eating and structured habits can drive success, even when gyms aren’t always part of the routine.

At the heart of Maria’s mindset is compassion for her body: “Be good and kind to your wonderful body—the amazing things it allows us to do daily is astounding.” It’s a reminder that true transformation is rooted in kindness, consistency, and self-respect.

Success that spreads

Maria’s journey is far from an isolated win, it mirrors a pattern across the entire Mayo Clinic Diet community. Her experience echoes the journeys of many Mayo Clinic Diet ambassadors—like Mouna, whose confidence soared while transforming her family meals, and Amanda, who regained energy and better health markers.

Together, their stories all underscore that wellness is about more than just the scale. It’s about building strength one mindful choice at a time, finding balance even on busy days, and developing the resilience to keep moving forward. Most of all, it’s about celebrating every victory—inside and out, because those moments are the key to maintaining motivation long-term.

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