Long-haul trucker lost more than 75 pounds after joining employer nutrition program

Businessinsider reports that Jerry Clark, a 58-year-old long-haul truck driver, lost more than 75 pounds after joining an employer-offered nutrition program run by Virta Health.

Clark, who gained weight during decades of long hours and frequent fast-food meals after leaving the Army, changed his habits by packing meals, eating more vegetables and whole foods, choosing roasted instead of fried chicken, meal-prepping, and exercising six days a week with alternating cardio and weightlifting. He used coaching support from the program, portion shortcuts such as using his palm to estimate protein, and says he has helped family members lose weight using the same techniques.

The program Clark joined is a low-carb approach designed to reverse type 2 diabetes; Clark does not have diabetes but his employer allowed him to participate. Nutrition experts quoted in the piece caution that low-carb plans are not right for everyone and that diet quality matters, while proponents point to intensive, personalized coaching as a factor in success. Clark continues to drive professionally, is focusing on maintenance and muscle building, and says he plans to stick with the lifestyle changes that helped him lose weight.

Key Topics

Health, Jerry Clark, Virta Health, Low-carb Diet, Jeff Volek, Nutrition Coaching