Tom’s Road to Weight Loss

Nathalie: When you implemented the lifestyle changes discussed by you and Charles D’Angleo (Tom’s personal trainer), how long was it before you noticed a difference in your energy and/ or over all health?

Tom: It was about 2 weeks before I noticed a change in my body, but I immediately had more energy.

N: Describe what a typical day is like for you now? (Go here for a glimpse at what a day was like for Tom before working with his trainer)

T: Well, the best thing is that I wake up with energy. I love that! In the morning, I drink a protein shake. For lunch I eat a diabetic friendly meal– that means no burgers and fries, so I have plenty of energy to get me through the afternoon. If I do feel hungry, though, I’ll snack on cashews. And everyday, without fail, I head straight to the gym to work out after the show. You know, I think that’s one of the things that makes me most proud; nothing can sway me from going to the gym after work. It doesn’t matter if I’m invited to go hang out with friends or if I’m just feeling lazy, I always choose to work out instead because it’s that important to me.

N: While setting up your fitness plan with Charles, did you discover anything about your existing lifestyle that was affecting you mentally and physically?

T: Of course the obvious answer is that I was really unhealthy because I had no physical activity built into my day and my eating habits were horrendous. But what I came to realize after setting up and actually doing the fitness plan, was that 100% of my eating was emotional: happy or sad, food was a source of comfort. I have no idea when that cycle started but I can tell you that the confidence I have gained through going to the gym each day and making the right food choices at every meal, has given me a confidence in myself that I’ve never had. As a matter of fact, it has changed my perception, too. I now look at food as fuel for my body, it’s no longer a crutch or reward.

N: Tell me how the new fitness routine affected your diabetes?

T: I have type 2 diabetes and I was able to cut out 3 pills a day and cut my insulin shots in half. But, most importantly, all of my test numbers are right where they should be.

N: Your diabetes test numbers are now in the normal range; do you think that others with diabetes could have the same results if they follow your regime?

T: Absolutely! I’d tell anyone to use the formula because it works. Charles (D’Angelo) and Roger (owner of Powerhouse Gym) have helped many diabetics.

N: What is the one thing you would like to do when you reached your weight loss goal?

T: I want to buy a 3 piece suit and, I want to play hockey again. I played in high-school and loved it, so I would be really happy to be able play in a league.