Natala

It was very rough, but Natala stayed with it and the results were nothing short of miraculous.

Being Fat in America 2011

Even young Natala from "Xuthal of the Dusk" actually tries to stab the villain of the story in a moment of desperation - to little effect, but still, she tried something.

intertribal: hope I don't break my arm falling out of the treehouse intertribal 2010

But then a friend, who Natala described to me as "a vegan and into yoga," suggested that she consider a natural approach to her diabetes, and that she start to think of food as medicine.

Being Fat in America 2011

People constantly told Natala she was lucky Matt had fallen in love with her, and that he must be amazing to be able to look past her weight.

Being Fat in America 2011

On the other, we have people like Natala and Matt Constantine, who have taken a different path.

Being Fat in America 2011

But Natala did take her friend's advice to heart, and decided to go on what she calls a "100-percent healthy plant-strong diet."

Being Fat in America 2011

Today, Natala Constantine has lost almost 200 pounds, is medicine-free, and continues to make great strides toward her ideal weight.

Being Fat in America 2011

Five years later, Natala was taking up to 13 different medications and as much as 200 units of insulin a day.

Being Fat in America 2011

While Natala was dealing with diabetes, he was not only obese but also suffered from severe food allergies.

Being Fat in America 2011

When Natala developed an infection in her right calf, doctors told her that part of her lower right leg might need to be amputated.

Being Fat in America 2011