Belinda Whitten took charge of her health after a diabetes diagnosis—and changed her life naturally.

Most people don’t recognize the signs of diabetes—Belinda Whitten didn’t either.
Belinda, a 27-year veteran at Monogram, was suddenly facing something she couldn’t ignore: feeling exhausted, sluggish, and simply unwell. A trip to the doctor revealed her A1C levels—measuring her blood sugar over the past three months—were at 11.7%. For reference, anything above 6.4% signals diabetes.
“My doctor wanted me on medication immediately,” says Belinda. “But I’ve never been the type to rely on meds. I wanted to heal myself naturally.”
Taking Charge
Belinda’s doctor was skeptical that she could reverse her diabetes with diet alone. But she was determined to prove him wrong.
A wearable blood sugar monitor helped her understand how her body reacted to food. The first change? Saying goodbye to her beloved Dr. Pepper and switching to a gallon of water every day.
“It wasn’t easy,” Belinda admits. “But I felt the difference almost immediately.”
Her next “health hack” surprised even herself: breakfast.
“I used to skip it entirely,” says Belinda. “Now, I start my day with things I love—like cucumbers, cheese sticks, or grapes with my favorite cheese. It keeps me full and stops me from snacking all day.”
Why It Works: Protein First
Belinda’s approach aligns with what scientists call the protein leverage hypothesis—the idea that we eat until our bodies get enough protein. That’s why snacking doesn’t always satisfy hunger according to the National Institutes of Health.
And for people managing diabetes, protein has an extra benefit: it curbs blood sugar spikes and keeps energy levels steady.
Results That Speak Volumes
Belinda’s hard work paid off faster than she expected.
- Weight lost: 50 lbs. in six months
- A1C level: Down to 6.1%—no longer diabetic
“I feel capable instead of lazy and exhausted,” says Belinda. “I didn’t realize how terrible I felt until I didn’t feel that way anymore.”
Her recovery after surgery for neck degeneration is another proof point:
“I healed faster, and I had no complications. My body feels like it’s working with me now, not against me.”
Know the Signs of Diabetes
If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor:
- Excessive thirst or frequent urination
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Blurred vision or headaches
- Tingling in hands or feet
- Slow wound healing
- Yeast infections or skin changes
Belinda’s journey is a testament to taking ownership of her health and making sustainable changes.
“I wanted to heal naturally, and I’m proud to say I did,” says Belinda. “If I don’t love and take care of myself, who will?”
If you’re looking to make a change, try Virta: A Healthier Path to Weight Loss and Blood Sugar Control
Virta helps you safely lose weight and lower blood sugar without side effects. Fully covered by GE Appliances, Virta is available to benefits-enrolled employees and adult family members with type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, or a BMI of 27 or greater.
Take the first step toward your health journey at GEAppliancesWellWithin.com to explore Virta and 14+ benefits to enhance your wellbeing, plus inspiring employee stories.
CareATC Onsite: Confidential Primary Care for You
CareATC offers low or no-cost, high-quality medical care, including primary care visits, prescriptions, lab tests, and counseling—all in a private, comfortable setting.
It’s not open to the public, ensuring shorter waits and unrushed appointments for GE Appliances employees and their family members. Hourly employees can use ON-THE-CLOCK care for up to four visits a year. Your care is always completely confidential.
Start your health journey todayat GEAppliancesWellWithin.com for more benefits and inspiring employee stories.
COMING SOON TO MONOGRAM AND DECATUR!