About

Hi, I am Archana and I am so glad you are here!

Better In Health (BIH) is my effort to bring to you research-based, reliable information that you can use in your everyday life to manage diabetes.

Here, you will find delicious and healthy recipes along with an explanation of what makes them good for your condition. Apart from recipes, you will also find helpful tips and tricks, researched references, and support to carry on with your journey.

My background

I have a master’s degree in software engineering and have worked as a software developer for over a decade. My background and my work experience have trained me to be an analytical thinker with a focus on problem solving.

However, it is human behavior that piques my interest. I pursued this interest and earned a doctorate degree in Human Development. During my years as a doctoral student, I honed my skills as a researcher and have published numerous articles in highly respected journals.

My inspiration and ‘why’

My journey with pre-diabetes began unexpectedly during a routine annual check-up—no symptoms, just a diagnosis. The news was unsettling, particularly with my family history of diabetes and heart disease. I was told to cut out carbs and sent on my way, with no further guidance or support.

Being diagnosed with a chronic condition can be nerve-wracking. I felt anxious as guidance from doctors was minimal and it was hard to find reliable information elsewhere. I consulted dietitians but the cost was prohibitive and found the guidance inadequate.

As I talked to others with chronic conditions, I found that I wasn’t alone in feeling this way. Just like me, most folks were worried and had no idea how to deal with their conditions on a daily basis.

That was when I decided to do my own research. I read a lot of books and took various certificate courses from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Temple University, and the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists to learn more about diabetes.

Here are the certifications that I have done for diabetes and lifestyle management:

• Diabetes is Primary – American Diabetes Association
• Diabetes care & education specialist certificate – Advaced
• CDC’s DPP certified prevent T2 lifestyle coach
• Diabetes educator level 1
• UCSF advanced management of diabetes certificate

All of this research and using it every day has given me the confidence that I can easily take care of these long-term conditions. I am happy to tell you that with a proper diet, medication, and lifestyle modifications, I am keeping myself happy and healthy.

I have been incredibly lucky to have support from Vivek. He is the photographer, recipe taster, and website manager for BIH. He is also the person who convinced me that if I could put all my learning and experiences into a website, we could help others who have similar health conditions as we do.