Testimonials

Lisa Franks on her 6-month Health Counseling Program:

How did you feel about your health before you started working with Marissa?

Before talking with Marissa, I experienced headaches almost daily. I think it had to do with my “soda dependency.” Whenever I had a headache, I would take ibuprofen, and have a soda. I think the caffeine and sugar played a big part in resolving my headaches. (Of course, I think they also had a role in creating the headaches in the first place, but I did not want to admit that to myself.) Overall, I felt sluggish. I was tired a lot, and frustrated with my weight. I also felt like I was sort of addicted to soda. I craved it terribly, and I would become irritable or frustrated if I didn’t have a soda for a day or so. Things are definitely different now.

Describe your experience going through the six-month program.

During the six-month program, Marissa would begin by educating me on an area of nutrition/health, and providing me with some information on the topic. My job was to integrate that into my life, (slowly if needed, or at my own pace) and Marissa was there to talk to, as she guided me through the changes. I didn’t have to stop eating or drinking certain things, rather I was slowly adding other things into my diet, leaving less room for the junk my body didn’t need. As I noticed changes in my body and the way I felt after adding in certain foods, Marissa was able to explain to me why I was experiencing certain changes, and I could literally feel my body getting healthier as time passed.

What did you find most helpful with this approach?

A combination of factors made this approach successful for me. My bi-monthly calls with Marissa helped tremendously. Talking to her made me feel like I had something to look forward to (a new food group to add to my diet, a chat about how the past week had been and/or someone to be accountable to, regarding my food choices). Another thing that was great about this approach is that I wasn’t eating anything weird. I didn’t have to go on a crash diet, or a temporary food-trend. I was just eating normal foods. I also didn’t have to give up my regular foods/drinks immediately; rather they were slowly pushed out of my diet, as new foods were added in. This program worked with my schedule.

What is the main difference between who you were before you did the program versus who you are now?

I’m actually a much healthier and happier person. I no longer feel like a slave to sugar and soda. I don’t drink soda anymore, and I no longer suffer from daily headaches. Actually, I rarely have headaches now. I also cook more than before. I feel fresher, inside and out. I’ve received so many compliments from friends and co-workers, stating that they see significant changes in me. People have told me my skin and hair looks great! They’ve also told me I have great color in my face—the changes are truly wonderful. More than anything, I don’t feel sluggish like I used to—rather I’m more energetic, and I feel healthy. (Oh, and did I mention I’ve lost weight—and still losing?!)

Why would you recommend this program to someone else? Who would you recommend this program to?

I urge people to try this program because I believe it can benefit everyone. I know it has improved my health greatly, and it’s easy because you can add in foods to your own degree. You don’t have to do anything drastic or extreme. Many people I know have shown an interest in the program based on the changes they see in me! I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to improve their health. I noticed many changes over a very short period of time. I think the changes are also an inspiration to keep going. Now I’m not embarrassed at the grocery store (I used to feel ashamed, drinking all that soda, etc.), and I know I’ve added years back to my life! People are all talking about saving the Earth now, and being environmentally friendly—we should be friendly to ourselves at the same time, and eat the things bodies are intended to eat. . . the foods they truly need.