Former “Law & Order” star Anthony Anderson proclaimed himself one of “Hollywood’s fat funny guys.” Not anymore!
Last year, the comedian decided fat was not funny and stepped up his healthy game.
“I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes about eight years ago, but it wasn’t until early 2009 that I experienced a wake-up call and really made lifestyle changes, like losing over 40 pounds to actively manage my diabetes,” Anthony reveals to Healthy Hollywood.
As Anthony approached his 40th birthday this past August, he took on healthier lifestyle changes, such as eating better and exercising regularly. “It’s sometimes hard to maintain my healthier eating during holiday times, but that’s when the healthier substitutions for food come into play,” he revealed.
Now, Anthony wants to be an example for other African-Americans. He’s teamed up with Eli Lilly’s F.A.C.E. Diabetes Initiative, which helps African-Americans take control of their disease. November is National Diabetes Month and Anderson is sharing his tips to eating healthier.
“It’s the small things that make a difference. I was told, if you don’t do anything else, eat half of what you normally do,” the comedian also adds, “My wife and I are very conscious of what we eat and what we feed our children. We make simple substitutions – you know brown rice instead of white, baked chicken as opposed to fried, collard greens cooked with turkey instead of ham hock or fatback.”
Anthony shares with Healthy Hollywood his tips for making holiday meals or Sunday family dinners a bit healthier.
1. Avoid burying good food under fat and sugar. Let the good food be tasty on its own.
2. Skim the fat from meat juices before making gravy or sauces.
3. Reduce the amount of sugar you add to your sweet potatoes and squash.
4. Help your guests eat healthier and manage their portion sizes. Try reducing the number of food choices offered. You don’t have to have such a big selection of food!
5. Use smaller plates.
6. Cut desserts into smaller pieces.
7. After that Thanksgiving meal, think about taking a long walk. It may be the perfect post-dessert activity!
For more tips on managing diabetes and yummy diabetes-friendly recipes, head to www.face-diabetes.com.
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