Cloe Women's Magazine

Health & Wellness

  • Written by Charmaine Dominguez, MPH, RDN
Charmaine Dominguez, MPH, RDN

As a registered dietitian who specializes in helping people reverse type 2 diabetes through plant-based nutrition, I've supported thousands in taking charge of their health—without medications or strict diets. My passion? Helping you naturally lower your blood sugar, boost your energy, and fall back in love with delicious food that makes you feel great.

One big myth I love busting is the idea that carbs are the enemy. Actually, foods like beans, whole grains, and fruits can be your best friends when it comes to controlling blood sugar. Through my evidence-based coaching, I've seen people all around the globe embrace plant-focused eating in a practical, enjoyable way. Nothing lights me up more than seeing my clients ditch the blood sugar rollercoaster, regain confidence around food, and build a lifestyle that truly supports lasting health, not just quick fixes.

My Simple Formula: A High Fiber Diet

A common misconception I tackle daily is the belief that you need to cut carbs or avoid fruits and grains entirely to manage blood sugar. In reality, the opposite approach is far more effective. Here's what my plant-centered method emphasizes:

  • Whole foods packed with fiber and antioxidants.

  • Low-glycemic ingredients that keep your energy steady and your blood sugar balanced.

  • Meals with at least 30 grams of plant-based protein to build muscle and keep you feeling full.

  • Skipping oils and refined sugars to help reduce inflammation and improve metabolic health.

  • Colorful, delicious meals that you genuinely look forward to eating.

Why focus on plant protein? It provides the muscle-building nutrients you need without the saturated fat typically found in animal proteins. Plus, plant proteins are loaded with fiber, keeping your gut happy and your metabolism running smoothly.

And the best part? You don't need to go fully vegan or vegetarian to enjoy these benefits. A plant-predominant diet gives you flexibility, allowing you to find the balance that's right for you. Whether you're ready to dive right in or prefer taking small, gradual steps, a plant-based approach can dramatically improve your metabolic health and overall vitality.

 

Breakfast: Oat Groat Bowl

  • 1 cup cooked oat groats (lower GI alternative to oats)

  • 1 cup unsweetened soy milk (or pea protein milk)

  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds

  • ½ cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries)

  • 1 tablespoon almond butter (optional, for extra protein and flavor)

  • Sprinkle of cinnamon

Snack: High-Protein Green Smoothie

  • 1 scoop vegan protein powder (pea or hemp-based)

  • 1 cup spinach or kale

  • 1 banana (frozen)

  • 1 tablespoon flaxseeds

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond or soy milk

Lunch: Power Bowl

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa

  • ½ cup black beans

  • ½ cup chickpeas

  • 1 cup steamed broccoli

  • ½ avocado (for healthy fats)

  • Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, shredded carrots

  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice, sprinkle nutritional yeast, salt-free herbs
    Protein: ~32 grams

Snack: Crispy Roasted Chickpeas (oil-free)

  • ½ cup chickpeas seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, air-fried or baked

Dinner: High-Protein Lentil and Veggie Chili

  • 1½ cups cooked lentils

  • Tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, onion, garlic

  • Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika

  • Serve over steamed cauliflower rice or brown rice

 
Originally from Hong Kong, Charmaine Dominguez is a registered dietitian and wellness professional who specializes in helping clients reverse Type 2 Diabetes and general insulin resistance through plant-focused, whole foods dieting. She is a double graduate of Cal State Long Beach, where she received both her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition & Dietetics and her Master's in Public Health. 

Aside from her business, Charmaine loves to live the active Southern California lifestyle with her husband Brandon & their two huskies (hiking/walking, cycling, the whole lot!). She speaks English, Cantonese, and Mandarin fluently, and is conversational in Spanish and Korean.

https://www.tiktok.com/@reversingdiabetesrvltn?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/reversingdiabetesrevolution/?hl=en

https://www.youtube.com/charmainedominguez
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