Transform Your Life with Corewell Health’s Lifestyle Medicine Program
GRAND RAPIDS, MICH — What if the secret to weight loss isn’t found in a pill, but rather in your daily routine? This intriguing question is at the heart of Corewell Health’s innovative Lifestyle Medicine program, which is helping individuals reclaim their health — one lifestyle change at a time.
Meet Robert Gordon Hull Dykstra: A Journey of Transformation
Robert Gordon Hull Dykstra was on a precarious path, managing a staggering four to five prescription medications while grappling with his weight. This was a “scary” reality for him, underscoring a need for substantial change. “I was heading down a path that was scary to me, and I knew I needed a change,” Dykstra shared, articulating a sentiment that resonates with many.
From Concern to Action: The Turning Point
Encouraged by his wife, Dykstra took the first step toward a healthier life. He enrolled in Corewell Health’s Lifestyle Medicine program, which stands as a groundbreaking initiative — **the first specialty lifestyle medicine practice integrated into a large healthcare system in the nation**. “My wife took my plea to heart,” Dykstra recalled, “writing out several options for me to choose from.” Discover more about their program here.
Food as Medicine: A Paradigm Shift
As Dykstra engaged with the program, he experienced a remarkable epiphany: **food is medicine**, with benefits extending far beyond mere nutrition. “Going through Corewell lifestyle medicine opened my eyes to a whole different world,” he noted. This transformative perspective shifted Dykstra’s outlook on health and wellness.
The Science Behind Lifestyle Medicine
Dr. Carolyn Vollmer, a leading physician in Corewell’s Lifestyle Medicine program, pointed out that **many chronic health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, are closely linked to lifestyle choices**. “There are so many things that can be changed by your lifestyle,” she elaborated, emphasizing the significance of individualized lifestyle modifications.
Accessibility and Community Support
One of the standout features of Corewell’s program is its accessibility; insurance typically covers the Lifestyle Medicine services, making it an option for many. Support doesn’t stop at consultations; Corewell Health hosts engaging cooking classes aimed at teaching participants the art of healthy meal preparation.
Results That Speak Volumes
Dykstra’s personal journey has yielded astonishing results — over **50 pounds lost**, dropping from 250 pounds to an admirable 196 pounds. Even more noteworthy is the reduction in his medications. “I’ve reduced all my medications to the absolute lowest dose possible,” he shared. His future goal? To eliminate as many medications as possible by the end of next year.
A Vision for the Future
Thanks to the comprehensive approach of Corewell Health’s Lifestyle Medicine program and the unwavering support from his loved ones, Dykstra looks forward to an enriched quality of life for himself and his family. His story exemplifies how adopting a healthier lifestyle can profoundly influence overall well-being.
Embrace Your Health Journey — if you’re looking to change your life through sustainable lifestyle changes, Corewell Health’s Lifestyle Medicine program might just be your answer. Take a step forward today!
This article has been brought to you in partnership with Corewell Health’s initiative for healthier living. Our editorial team ensures accuracy and fairness in all reporting.
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