For those of you who are new to reading any of my blogs (I have several), allow me to introduce myself. I’m LaShaundrea—Shaun to most. I’m the mother of two beautiful adults, a retired Air Force veteran, the eldest of 8 siblings, and a lover of life. Oh…and I’m also a registered dietitian (RD) and a Southern girl. Couldn’t leave those out! You’ll see and hear a lot of “Y’alls” from me, and if you are cool with this, then you’re in the right place!

Let’s begin with why I created Let’s Get Healthier Together. 

So, I haven’t shared this story with many. Don’t believe many people outside my family know that earlier this year I went to the emergency room with chest pains. I had been having them off and on during the days leading up to the ER visit; however, on that particular day, the sharp pains wouldn’t go away and were becoming more intense. Y’all, I was so scared. I literally thought I was having a heart attack. My niece and son went to the ER with me, but I never shared with them how scared I was. I tried to hold back the tears, but couldn’t. Long story short (because I can write forever), after going through all the tests and having bloodwork drawn, the doctor couldn’t find anything wrong with me. Said it was probably anxiety. I even looked at my lab values, and y’all, I’m not going to lie, I was impressed! I was pretty healthy. However, one thing concerned me: my total cholesterol was quite high. Not alarmingly high, but high enough to be concerned. 

When I followed up with my primary care provider, she prescribed a low-dose cholesterol pill. At first, I was hesitant to take it because of the side effects—You know how we go straight to Google to read the side effects. Well, I had a decision to make: take the pill or face the consequences of it remaining elevated. I finally decided to take the pill after I saw how the same pill helped many of my clients’ levels decrease. I’m not sure what my total cholesterol is today. I’m scheduled for a follow-up soon, and y’all, I’m anxious to see my new numbers!

Although I’m now taking the cholesterol medicine, I still need to make a few diet and lifestyle changes. And to be honest, I’ve been slow to start because I feel stuck, somewhat overwhelmed, and it’s not like anyone’s holding me accountable. Y’all, I’m a registered dietitian. I know the science. I’ve read and done the research. I know what a balanced meal looks like, and why fiber and protein matter. I know behavior modifications are necessary. However, knowing this and making the changes are two completely different things. I’m good at helping others with their diet and making healthier lifestyle choices—but y’all, I’m struggling. And I know I’m not the only one. I talk to women all the time who know what to do because they’ve tried to make healthier choices before. They would start off strong, and as soon as they found themselves on track, life would happen. Who else can you relate?

Well, here’s what I’ve learned—the missing piece isn’t more information. It’s accountability. It’s community. It’s connecting with others who understand what you’re going through because they’re going through it too. Let’s be honest, change is hard!

Let’s Get Healthier Together was created for women who want to make healthier choices but are finding it difficult to start and/or maintain progress. It’s not meant to replace the work that you are currently doing with your primary care provider or dietitian. It’s to work alongside them. Think of it as a support system that will help you follow through with what they’ve already recommended.

Okay…enough talking from me! I told you I can go on and on.

Here’s my personal invitation for you to join me on this journey of becoming healthier. Join our private Facebook group: Let’s Get Healthier Together. I made it private so you can feel comfortable sharing your stories without worrying about everyone knowing your business. Smile. Also, sign up for our “LGHT” newsletter through the Nutrition with LaShaundreaB webpage.

Listen, come as you are! You don’t have to have it figured out. You just have to be willing to start.

If you’re in, Let’s Get Healthier Together!

Eat Well.
Feel Well. 
Live Well.

LaShaundreaB.🍏