How I Lost 19 Kg, Improved My HbA1c from 8.6 to 6.0 & Transformed My Health With FFD

I Lost Nearly 20 Kg and Improved My HbA1c from 8.6 to 6.0 With Freedom From Diabetes

Name - Ms. Aarti J. Pise
Age - 56 Years Young
Profession - Retired Office Manager with a Background in Civil Engineering
Place - New Jersey

For years, I believed my weight was difficult to change because of menopause, hormonal changes, and family history. I never imagined I could lose nearly 20 kg.

Then, a routine health check-up revealed that my HbA1c was 8.6, and my doctor recommended diabetes medication. Already taking medicines for thyroid issues and high blood pressure, I wanted to explore lifestyle changes before adding another medicine. After discussing it with my doctor, I decided to give myself three months to make changes.

Today, I weigh 83 kg, my most recently reported HbA1c is 6.0, and I have the energy to stay active throughout the day. My journey with Freedom From Diabetes (FFD) has changed not only my health but also what I believe is possible for me.

Key Takeaways

Weight reduced from approximately 102 kg to 83 kg
HbA1c improved from 8.6% to 6.0%.
Better energy, flexibility, and day-to-day comfort
Participated in multiple Fast for Freedom challenges
Started walking 5K and hopes to explore hiking

My Diabetes Wake-Up Call

Alongside my blood sugar concerns, I was dealing with excess weight, stiffness, back and shoulder pain, and very low energy.

I often needed to lie down or nap during the day because I felt exhausted. Even routine activities could feel demanding.

I wanted more than better blood reports. I wanted to feel comfortable in my body, move with greater ease, and get through the day without constantly needing to rest.

Around this time, I came across videos by Dr. Malhar Ganla and Dr. Pramod Tripathi.

Their content introduced me to FFD and encouraged me to explore a different approach to managing my health.

How FFD Introduced Me to a New Beginning

What encouraged me to join FFD was the opportunity to work on my health through a structured programme.

The support from my doctor and dietitian has been particularly valuable.

Their regular follow-ups help me stay focused and return to my routine when I struggle.

Having guidance and support throughout the process made the journey feel more manageable. Instead of trying to figure everything out on my own, I had a team helping me work towards my goals.

Ms. Aarti J. Pise

My Transformation Journey

When I began my journey, I weighed approximately 102 kg. Over time, I brought my weight down to 83 kg, marking a reduction of around 19 kg.

My blood reports showed encouraging changes as well.

My HbA1c improved from the initially reported 8.6% to approximately 6.6% in the latest available records.

My fasting blood glucose also decreased from 143 mg/dL to 104 mg/dL.

These numbers gave me a way to track my progress beyond the weighing scale.

I still have goals I want to achieve, but I have learned not to rush the process.

I want to continue making steady changes and focus on building habits that support my health over the long term.

From Constant Fatigue to Better Energy

One of the most meaningful changes has been in my everyday life.

Earlier, I often needed to lie down every 15–20 minutes or take a nap because of exhaustion.

Body stiffness and pain also made movement uncomfortable.

Now, I can start my day in the morning and continue until bedtime without needing those frequent rests.

I have noticed improvements in my energy, flexibility, and physical comfort.

For me, these everyday changes matter just as much as the numbers in my reports. Being able to move more comfortably and participate in daily activities has made a real difference.

My Fast for Freedom Experience

Before joining FFD, fasting was difficult because I experienced severe acidity. Fasting for an entire day seemed almost unimaginable.

My first Fast for Freedom (FFF) challenge was difficult, and I felt tired enough to need sleep.

The second experience went better, helping me feel more confident about something I had once found daunting.

The experience became another part of my wider lifestyle journey.

Alongside the challenges, I continued working on everyday habits and learning what worked best for me.

Inner Transformation Journey

My experience with FFD has also encouraged me to pay attention to my overall well-being.

I have attended one or two mental health group sessions, along with meditation and exercise sessions. I continue to practise meditation.

I have also changed the way I think about my health.

I once believed menopause and family history meant that losing weight would be almost impossible.

My progress has challenged that assumption and made me more confident about taking charge of my well-being.

After retiring from my job, I wanted to do something meaningful with this new chapter of my life.

I am now looking forward to helping coordinate food requirements for an upcoming event with Dr. Pramod and connecting with others who share an interest in healthy living.

I see these opportunities as a way to keep learning and stay engaged with my passion for health and well-being.

Athletic Identity

Initially struggled with Surya Namaskar due to stiffness and body pain.

Tried partial movements but stopped to avoid risking injury.

Improved flexibility over time, making walking more comfortable.

Started walking 5K to stay active.
Hope to explore hiking with a suitable group.
Remain mindful of knee health and choose activities suited to my body.
Wish to return to Surya Namaskar gradually.
Aim to stay active, build confidence, and progress at my own pace.

Current Lifestyle and Reflection

My journey is still ongoing. I continue to take medication for my thyroid and high blood pressure and follow my doctor’s guidance.

At the time of the latest available records, I was not taking diabetes medication.

I also understand the importance of continued medical monitoring rather than focusing on a single result.

Looking back, I am glad I gave myself the opportunity to make these changes.

The support from my FFD team, the lifestyle adjustments, and the progress I have experienced have helped me become more confident about my health.

I no longer want to assume that change is impossible because of my age or circumstances. I want to keep improving at my own pace, stay active, and make choices that support my well-being.

For me, the biggest lesson is simple: give yourself a genuine chance before deciding that change is out of reach.