When I was younger, my high metabolism allowed me to stay thin effortlessly, no matter what I ate. Eventually these bad habits caught up with me and after 2 kids, I had gained 65 pounds. I was inflamed, my knees, feet and back hurt, I had adult acne, I slept poorly, my moods were not stable, and worst of all, I did not have the energy to keep up with my children. At a routine physical in 2013, my doctor told me that at 208 lbs, I was obese and nearing morbid obesity. Without any guidance, I was left to face the reality of my health on my own. Despite buying clothes six sizes larger, I hadn’t realized the extent of the damage.

I began my journey through multiple fad diets and programs, but they were unsustainable. I did have some success, but the journey pivoted slightly in 2015 when I found out I was pregnant with my third child. I decided to have the healthiest pregnancy I could with the knowledge I had and was able to stay active and maintain my energy through the entire pregnancy. My journey continued with minimal improvement, until November 2017 when I had an allergic reaction to a medication that caused a gallbladder attack. I was told to change my diet while I healed and was surprised at how much better I felt with just these dietary changes. This sparked my passion for learning about inflammation, gut health, and the healing power of food.

To date, I have lost and kept off 70 lbs. I have learned what foods make me feel my best and which don’t. I have shifted my mindset, gained energy, dramatically reduced anxiety, healed my gut and truly feel my best. I even learned a new sport and compete with the energy and strength I had not felt since my teenage years. Inspired by my journey, I created AP Well Plan to help others achieve their healthiest lives.