A Life of Challenges
For nearly 20 years, Natalie struggled with obesity and the complications that came with it. Chronic pain, food addiction, inactivity, depression and anxiety were daily battles. “My lab work showed a future filled with cardiovascular disease, diabetes and poor health,” Natalie recalls. A DEXA Scan revealed 48% body fat, high visceral fat levels and multiple health markers in the “below average” range. “There were a lot of sad faces on that DEXA Scan report,” she shares.
Though outwardly happy, Natalie often felt hopeless. “I thought I was lazy, pathetic and incapable of change,” she says. The mental toll of her weight was as challenging as the physical symptoms. “I was functioning, but I wasn’t truly living.”
The Elevé Connection
Natalie’s sister, Ellie, introduced her to the Elevé Vitality program. After years of hesitation, Natalie finally said yes. “Ellie was patient, and I’m so grateful she encouraged me,” says Natalie. “After meeting with Katrina, the Vitality wellness coordinator, and reviewing my lab work, I knew it was time to act.”
A Transformational Journey
Natalie adopted a new lifestyle guided by the Elevé Vitality program and its team of medical providers. She began by focusing on her diet and mindset, following this advice: “Eat protein first, avoid carbs and sugar.” She also limited her alcohol intake. Researching the keto diet helped her find satisfying, healthy meals. She also embraced intermittent fasting, cutting out carbohydrates and sugars almost completely due to her body’s insulin resistance.
“Mindset work was crucial,” Natalie emphasizes. “I had to reframe my self-doubt and catch myself when unhealthy thoughts crept in.” She implemented “joy days” to indulge guilt-free, followed by “consistency days” to stay on track. “It’s about finding balance and believing I can always course correct.”
Natalie’s treatment plan also included individualized exercise goals. A VO2 max test revealed her optimal fat-burning heart rate. Walking 2.5 miles daily became a manageable, enjoyable routine. “I realized I didn’t have to overwork my body to be active,” she says. Over time, she added strength training to build muscle mass.
For the first eight months, Natalie used a semaglutide injection to curb hunger and “food chatter.” The medication jumpstarted her progress, but she’s proud to have continued losing weight after stopping it six months ago. “The semaglutide was a part of the equation, but it wasn’t the answer,” she says. “The lifestyle changes are the true key to success with this program.”
Incredible Results
Natalie has lost 83 pounds and transformed her health. Her lab results, once alarming, now fall within normal limits. Her DEXA Scan metrics have improved, and her VO2 max increased from 23 to 27. She’s gone from barely walking a mile to running three miles at a time. “I see myself as active and energetic—something I never thought possible,” she says. “It’s the greatest feeling.”
Looking Ahead
Natalie plans to maintain her new lifestyle and inspire others. “This journey has been nothing but fabulous for me, and I never want to go back,” she says. “I want my story to give others hope.”
Advice for Others
“Invest in yourself,” Natalie urges. “Your health is priceless. This program works if you work it, and I’ll never regret a dime I spent on it. It changed my life, and it could change yours, too.”
