### Anthony Anderson's Journey with Type 2 Diabetes Anthony Anderson, known for his role as Dre Johnson on ABC’s *black-ish*, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2001. Initially, he didn't take the diagnosis seriously, but a decade ago, his father's death from complications related to type 2 diabetes became a wake-up call for him. Anderson realized he needed to make significant changes to his lifestyle to manage his health better. #### Key Lifestyle Changes 1. **Dietary Adjustments**: Anderson initially tried a vegan diet and later switched to a pescatarian diet, focusing on fish and vegetables. He also cut out alcohol from his diet. 2. **Exercise**: He began exercising more regularly, which helped him lose nearly 50 pounds. 3. **Professional Help**: Anderson worked with personal trainers and a personal chef, but he emphasizes that these changes can be made without such resources. Simple actions like choosing leaner cuts of meat and walking more can also be effective. #### Mental and Emotional Challenges Anderson admits that dealing with diabetes can be emotionally challenging. He felt ashamed and hesitant to use injectable medicines, but eventually, he accepted that his body needed them to feel better. He encourages others to have honest conversations with themselves and their doctors about their health needs. #### Advocacy and Awareness Anderson has partnered with Novo Nordisk for the “Get Real About Diabetes” campaign to raise awareness about diabetes management. He stresses the importance of acknowledging the disease and taking proactive steps to manage it. In summary, Anderson's journey highlights the importance of diet, exercise, and mental readiness in managing type 2 diabetes. His story serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges.