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Linda: Reversed Heart Disease, Pre-Diabetes and Lost 50 Pounds

The fundamentals of the McDougall Program are simple yet often difficult to implement. Star McDougallers have either adopted the Program themselves by learning from our website and books or joining one of our programs. For personalized help, learn more about the 12-Day McDougall Program. For questions on whether a change in diet can help your ailment, learn more about our consultations.
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I’m certain I would have died 34 years ago had I not found Dr. McDougall. I had thyroid cancer, severe heart disease, pre-diabetes and was 50 pounds overweight. My new neighbor recommended Dr. John McDougall. I looked him up and bought his book The McDougall Program 12 Days to Dynamic Health. After reading about the many people he saved from near-death or from being very sick, I was hooked. I changed to a starch-based plant diet. I ate Mary’s delicious recipes and lots of potatoes. I was not perfect as I was still drinking wine at night with dinner or when we went out. 

It has been about 30 years now that I am alcohol-free and I have never felt better in my life. I became certified in The Starch Solution and I teach Food for Life Nutrition and Cooking for Dr. Neal Barnard. I have my certification from Dr. T. Colin Campbell in Plant nutrition. I started health coaching and still do! 

I have had great success implementing The Starch Solution. However, along the way, I started eating too many nuts in the form of cashew gelato even though it is oil-free. I ate too many avocados, tofu, olives, and oil-free vegan cheeses too. I gained 20 pounds or so and didn’t admit it to myself. I just bought bigger and looser clothes! Wow, I found out how easy it is to deny the truth! 

Not long ago, I took a look in the mirror at both front and side view. It was a shock! How could I be so fat?! I’m an aerobic instructor and a health coach! I thought teaching aerobics classes and weight training classes were keeping me slim and fit! I became angry at myself for letting my body go!

Next, I signed up for the 12-Day McDougall Program! I didn’t even mention this to my clients because I was embarrassed. Being a health coach, I thought they wouldn’t believe in my teachings. Well, I lost the extra weight so fast just by following the McDougall Program. I could check in with my wonderful Support Specialist anytime. It was amazing to look at the scale in the morning and see the pounds fall off. Now I show off my slim body whenever I can. I am 5’8”, 78 years old and weigh 119 pounds. I am keeping strict tabs on myself and will never go above 119 again. Being the correct weight has lifted my self-esteem. I FEEL WONDERFUL! I totally recommend the 12-Day McDougall Program because it works, you too can achieve your health goals too!

Thank you Dr. John McDougall, Mary and Heather for saving lives and having the healthiest program on this planet. 

Linda