About Laura Santiago

I created this site to reclaim the joy of eating after my diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure—and to help you do the same.

TL;DR: I’m Laura Santiago—an independent researcher (B.S. in Computer Science) and fitness coach. I’m not a doctor or dietitian. After being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, I built this site to turn credible evidence into tasty, doable habits. Everything here cites reliable sources and is for education—not medical advice.

Independent Researcher, Fitness Coach, and Recipe Developer

Hello, and welcome! I’m Laura, the heart and hands behind this website. I’m an independent researcher and fitness coach who translates evidence into practical, delicious everyday habits. My journey into the world of health and wellness wasn’t planned in a classroom; it was born in my own kitchen out of necessity, curiosity, and a deep love for delicious food.

My Story: A Personal Mission for Better Health

My perspective on food changed forever after my diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes and high blood pressure. That was my true “wake-up moment.” I vividly remember the feeling of being told all the things I couldn’t eat. The joy I once found in food was suddenly replaced by fear and a sense that my future meals would be bland and unsatisfying.

I refused to accept that.

This personal challenge sparked a mission: to reclaim the joy of eating without compromising my health. I dove into creating recipes for myself—dishes that were not only blood-sugar-friendly but also packed with the comforting, delicious flavors I grew up loving.

This journey expanded as I explored sustainable weight loss. It wasn’t just about the number on the scale; I was also dealing with significant posture issues and chronic back pain from the extra weight. This personal struggle is what motivated me to become a fitness coach—focusing on functional movement and core strength to not just lose weight, but to move better and feel stronger.

I found success by integrating different evidence-based strategies, using low-carb principles and the Mediterranean diet to manage my blood sugar, while embracing the DASH diet to manage my blood pressure. My research naturally expanded beyond just diet and exercise to include the critical roles of gut health, the hormonal shifts of menopause, and the power of mindfulness—discovering how beautifully all these elements of wellness are connected.

This is the same sustainable approach that, over the first 18 months of my journey, helped me lose 50 pounds, correct my posture, lower my own A1C from 7.8% to 6.1%, and manage my blood pressure from 145/95 mmHg down to a consistent 120/80 mmHg. This website is the culmination of that personal experience—a collection of recipes perfected through countless hours of testing in my own kitchen.

My Approach and Commitment to Trust

I believe that living a healthy lifestyle should be an act of empowerment, not deprivation. To be completely transparent with you: I am not a doctor or a registered dietitian.

My qualifications are different. I am an independent researcher with a B.S. in Computer Science, and a fitness coach. I am passionate about data analysis; this academic background taught me how to analyze complex data and sift through vast amounts of information—a skill I now passionately apply to scientific studies and health research.

My strength isn’t in writing prescriptions; it’s in the ability to find, analyze, and translate complex scientific evidence into practical, actionable steps for everyday life.

My Research Process: A 3-Step Approach

My methodology combines this analytical approach with real-world application. Here’s how I work:

Real-World Testing: Every recipe starts with a real-life need (my own!) and is tested and perfected in a real home kitchen.
Evidence-Based Research: I dive deep into credible scientific studies (from PubMed, ADA, NIH) and nutritional guidelines to ensure the information is accurate and safe.
Simplifying the Complex: I analyze this complex information and translate it into clear, actionable advice and delicious recipes. I always cite my sources so you can feel confident in the “why” behind my recommendations.

My research and recommendations are guided by leading health authorities such as:

Medical Disclaimer & Safety Notice

Important Note: The information shared here is based on my personal experience and in-depth research. It is intended for educational purposes and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for your specific health needs. I do not diagnose, treat, or provide individualized dosing.

Urgent Medical Warning: This website is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you are experiencing symptoms such as severe chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden dizziness, severe headache, or signs of very high or very low blood sugar, please call 911 or contact your doctor immediately.

Affiliate Disclosure: Some articles on this site may include affiliate links. I only recommend products and services I personally use or genuinely trust. This income helps support the site’s research and recipe development, and my editorial decisions are never influenced by affiliate partnerships.

See our Editorial Policy for details on sourcing and updates.

What You’ll Find on This Site

My goal is to be a trusted resource for you on your own health journey. Here, you’ll find a growing library of:

Delicious & Accessible Recipes: For blood-sugar management, low-carb eating, weight loss, the DASH Diet, and the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Well-Researched Guides & Practical Training Tips: Clear, easy-to-understand articles breaking down complex topics from gut health to menopause into actionable advice.
Honest Wellness & Lifestyle Tips: Practical insights to help you feel good from the inside out—including my holistic take on skincare, hair health, and other personal lifestyle topics (like tattoos!).

Let’s Connect

This is more than just a website; it’s a community. I am always inspired by your stories and experiences. Feel free to reach out via the Contact page.

Thank you for trusting me to be a part of your wellness journey. I can’t wait to see what you create.

Warmly, Laura Santiago

Last Updated: October 24, 2025