From Shock to Strength: Reversing 25 Years of Diabetes at Retirement

Hello all,

 

I am Uma Seshadri, a retired engineer based in Chennai.

 

My diabetes journey began unexpectedly about 25 years ago when a routine pre-op test for eye surgery showed a fasting sugar level of 600 mg/dL. A retest confirmed 599 mg/dL, shocking me as there was no family history. The diagnosis delayed my surgery and brought disbelief and concern.

Over time, symptoms like frequent urination, Sweet cravings, Excessive sweating, and fatigue appeared. Last year, My HbA1c shot up to 10.1%, affecting my vision and alarming me. Determined, I improved my diet and exercise, Reducing HbA1c to 8.4%, but my doctor increased medications, Which made me uneasy.

 

My turning point came in September when I attended Dr. Pramod Tripathi’s ‘Discover Reversal’ Session. Though I had known about his work for years, The online format finally made it accessible. The session connected all the scattered information I had gathered, giving me clarity. Trusting my gut, I immediately joined the FFD program (Holistic Transformation Program) HTP.

 

The first month of FFD was overwhelming—a flood of new information on diet, Exercise, and holistic healing. Though I knew about diabetes management, FFD’s structured approach was new. Initially, I struggled to adapt, but with continuous support from the FFD team, I slowly found my footing.

Medication tapering began, and though I wasn’t on a weight-loss plan due to my low BMI, I saw my waistline shrink from 96 cm to 81 cm in six months. I was close to becoming completely medicine-free.

However, Stress remained—Managing different diets for myself and my heart patient husband was challenging. Family bereavements added to the emotional load. Relief came through FFD’s Inner Transformation sessions by Dr. Mayurika and Dr. Pramod, which taught me mindfulness and meditation. I realized my external situation hadn't changed, but I had—internally stronger and more at peace.

 

Today, I start my mornings with meditation and lemon water, setting a positive tone. While my mind still wanders, I stay consistent, revisiting FFD’s learning portal for guidance. My HbA1c steadily dropped from 7.6% to 6.7%, with medications reduced.

 

I lost most of my cravings, including a 3 am filter coffee I was habituated to for the past 70 yrs! The diet helped with effortless clearing of bowels regularly every morning.

 

Most important among all for me is, Earlier I was too fatigued and tired throughout the day. But with FFD, My energy levels have touched the peaks. No afternoon 2 hrs of sleep for me now!!. No complete drained out feeling, As the day draws to an end. All the regular sessions on Vegan Diets, Milk, Mastering and maintaining weight gain etc have helped to revive the sagging spirits.

The only minus if I can call that, is weight loss. From 49 kgs I am now around 43 kgs. This has increased the number of people advising me to stop FFD as I now look like a famished poor soul from Somalia.!! But I am determined and confident to prove them all wrong and achieve the targets set for myself which are going off medicines or bringing it to a bare minimum with HbA1c below 6, Regaining my weight and reaching the target BMI.  

 

I have also rekindled my passion for fitness. Though still rediscovering my athletic identity, I have begun practicing 24 Surya Namaskars daily, dreaming of cycling again and completing a marathon someday.

I am also hopeful that I would cycle one day all the way from Chennai to Mahabalipuram. 

 

FFD’s team—Dr. Malhar Ganala, Dr. Mrunalini, Dr. Amruth Prabhu, Dr. Anuja, Dr. Priyanka, and Dr. Shubhankar—along with the community’s constant support, kept me going. My journey is about more than reversing diabetes; It’s about complete well-being—Physical, Mental, and Emotional. I know the process may take time, But I’m confident I’ll reach my goal.