Currently, about 70% of Americans are overweight or obese—and if trends continue, nearly half of the U.S. population could be classified as obese by 2030. Childhood obesity has also risen dramatically over the past 30 years, with 1 in 3 American children now considered overweight or obese. Obesity is associated with a wide range of health conditions, including heart disease, high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, asthma, osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and certain types of cancer.
If you're concerned about any of these issues, I invite you to join our monthly Weight Loss Support Group, which meets on the first Monday of each month at 7:00 PM EST.
Our group focuses on topics related to weight loss through a whole-food, plant-based (WFPB) lifestyle. You’ll hear inspiring success stories, learn from the latest research, receive tips for getting started and staying committed to WFPB living, and enjoy occasional cooking demonstrations.
About the Host:
Barbara Chwierut is a retired speech and language pathologist, specializing in assistive technology. She’s been WFPB for approximately 10 years and is extremely passionate about this lifestyle. At age 42 her husband had a mild heart attack. After consulting with a renowned Clinic, they were told to eat a diet of chicken, fish, olive oil and red wine. This lifestyle was carried out for several years, with minimal success of lowering his cholesterol numbers. Approximately 10 years ago, both Barb and her husband heard about the documentary Last Heart Attack in America. They watched it immediately and this led them to Forks Over Knives. Within a week, they adapted to a whole foods plant-based lifestyle.
In the last few years, her husband became lax about following a WFPB diet. Although no animal products were consumed, he began eating more refined white flour, adding some sugar ‘treats’, as well as olive oil (in salad dressings when eating out). This led to an increase in his weight. Although they feel that COVID can not be ruled out as starting a chain of events (he was extremely ill in Jan – Feb 2020), he suffered a cardiac arrest in May 2020. He was in multiple organ failure, on a vent for 11 days as well as dialysis. Through a multitude of prayers, amazing first responders and fantastic medical teams her husband is now leading a ‘normal’ life, working full time with no cognitive disfunction, no dialysis and feeling better than he did even two years ago.
Both Barb and her husband realize the importance of ‘sticking to the plan’ and both are diligent in maintaining a WFPB lifestyle. Her husband has lost 70 lbs. in less than a year, while eating large quantities of tasty food. Barb wants people to know that they can have a positive impact on their health through the foods they consume.
Everyone is welcome—whether you’re ready to share or prefer to simply listen in. 🌱