Jennifer's Healthy Change

In August of 2010, I found myself in the ICU.

I was there for a week and a half, most of which I don't even remember. My body was shutting down because, while I didn't know it at the time, I am a type 1 diabetic.

My husband and I thought we were living a healthy lifestyle before my diagnosis, and certainly we did try to include lots of fresh vegetables, fruits, lean meats and whole grains in our diet. But when I was released from the hospital, I vowed to completely overhaul our entire outlook on food.

Over the past year I've discovered how to make pizza crust out of cauliflower instead of wheat flour; to love new and different vegetables like kale and chayote squash; and to cook with alternative flours made from almonds and coconut.

That research, creativity and willingness to try new, healthy alternatives has paid off more than I could have imagined. My medication doses have been drastically reduced; my doctors are continually impressed with my blood sugar averages and other lab test results; and I feel great! Even my husband and three-year-old son love the healthy recipes I've discovered and created, so I feel good knowing all of us are on a path to a long, healthy and happy life.