Donita's new diet buddy

MANILA, Philippines - For an accomplished woman like Donita Rose (photo), staying fit is not about losing the extra flab, it’s about changing a lifestyle and seeing its positive effects — in and outside the body. And in her quest for a lifestyle change, she found support in My Diet Buddy.

My Diet Buddy is a delivery service that prepares meals following the South Beach Diet (SBD) guidelines. Developed by cardiologist Dr. Arthur Agatston in the early ‘90s, SBD emphasizes a healthy and balanced eating plan. What makes SBD different from other diet programs is that it does not make the dieter feel hungry or deprived (a common effect of diet plans). In fact, SBD pushes people to make smart food choices. This way, they can enjoy the food and their body do not have to face the cruel effects of an unbalanced meal.

“Now that I opted to make this lifestyle change, I’m eating salads all the time.” She once found herself inside a cinema eating salad. Embracing a SBD lifestyle, however, does not mean that one turns into a rabbit, eating only raw vegetables.  An SBD meal is composed of a balanced meal-whole grains, fruits, vegetable, lean proteins, good fats and good carbohydrates.

Donita explains that now that her taste buds have changed, she’s finding food she normally does not enjoy, like fish, becoming palatable.  Every ingredient becomes distinct, every food becomes more delectable. Donita finds the My Diet Buddy meals flavorful and satisfying, something she did not expect to find in a diet program.

“I like Huevos Rancheros’ classic Mexican breakfast. I also like the poached eggs. It makes me feel like I’m not dieting,” she says. The generous servings of My Diet Buddy meals dispel the notion that diet meals are bland. 

Working in an environment where there is constantly food, Donita says she does not deprive herself. Her family and work colleagues have also become her cheering squad, encouraging her to continue this lifestyle change.

“Sometimes, they’re the ones that suggest food that I can eat,” she laughs.  With the delightful food presentation of every My Diet Buddy meal Donita brings to the set, one can find her work colleagues taking a bite of Donita’s meal boxes.

It is also a good thing Donita’s husband is a health buff, loves sports and exercise. And with an active six-year-old son, Donita believes her new lifestyle, combined with regular exercise, gives her the freedom to enjoy her life more.

With My Diet Buddy, Donita has parlayed her passion for food into something meaningful. 

“It’s not about the pounds. I just see it as a by product. I know anyone who diets to lose weight but my purpose is greater than that. If I lose weight, my craving for certain food may also go,” says she.

Donita is starting to see the positive effects. She has not only lost 7.4 pounds in her first week, she also feels better about herself.  People also comment on her radiant skin and healthier body.