She Strengthens

A Passion for Healthy Living: Sherry Pagoto’s Journey

As a clinical health psychology researcher at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Sherry Pagoto has dedicated her career to understanding the complexities of obesity and related conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. But her interest in health and fitness began long before she became a renowned expert in the field.

A Childhood Awakening

Growing up as an overweight child in a family of skinny people, Sherry was frustrated by her inability to keep up with her active lifestyle. She took matters into her own hands, researching calorie counts and energy balance, and eventually lost the extra weight by learning to balance her food intake with her activity levels. This early experience sparked a lifelong fascination with the interconnectedness of diet, exercise, and overall well-being.

Influential Mentors and Life-Changing Events

A high school class, Health Occupations, taught by the dynamic Gloria Bawol, further solidified Sherry’s interest in health and fitness. The class’s graphic illustrations of the consequences of an unhealthy lifestyle left a lasting impression, motivating Sherry to prioritize her own health. The sudden death of her uncle at 44 also served as a wake-up call, prompting her to take control of her genetic predispositions.

Finding Her Calling

During college, Sherry discovered the field of health psychology, which allowed her to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. She became convinced that behavior, not pharmaceuticals, held the key to a long and healthy life. This conviction drives her research and inspires her to help others adopt healthy habits.

Fitness as a Priority

As an avid runner, Sherry credits exercise with regulating her weight and managing stress. She runs five days a week, totaling 25-35 miles, and supplements her routine with yoga and core exercises. With a goal to run a half marathon in all 50 states, Sherry prioritizes her fitness schedule above all else.

A Balanced Diet

Sherry’s diet is characterized by high fiber, low fat, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. She limits meat consumption to two to three times a week and rarely indulges in fried foods. Her typical day includes cereal or a bagel for breakfast, snacks of almonds and cheese, and lunches heavy on vegetables.

The Pursuit of Happiness

Despite her many accomplishments, Sherry struggles with living in the present moment, often finding herself focused on future goals rather than appreciating the here and now. She finds daily happiness in her daughter, work, family and friendships, and running – everything else is secondary.