Nutrisystem, Inc. announced last week that Genie Francis (“General Hospital,” “The Young and the Restless”) is its new brand ambassador. The iconic former soap star is said to have lost 30 pounds while on the weight loss program, which she started after losing her sister in 2013 and following her oldest child, son Jameson Ivor Frakes, heading off to college.

“I’ve always been an emotional eater. I use food to comfort myself. It’s been an ongoing problem in my life,” said Francis. “But the biggest part of the problem was that before, in order to lose weight, I would do extreme diets and starve. The good thing about Nutrisystem is that I’m more at peace with food.

“I know how to eat the right amount of breakfast, lunch and dinner. I avoid triggers and stay away from button foods – the ones that make you want to eat more. The fact that I get to eat the foods I love on Nutrisystem, satisfies my cravings and I am less vulnerable to those button foods.”

Shortly after losing the first 10 pounds, Francis realized how much better she felt. By 20 pounds she became more productive.

“It’s amazing what losing weight can do for you,” says Francis. “I am feeling more like my old self. I have more confidence, don’t dread getting dressed and have much more energy!”

After losing 25 pounds, Francis began to realize she could fit into her old clothing again and even went shopping for new clothes.

“I put on a pair of jeans I haven’t worn in years,” adds Francis. “And they fit! I couldn’t believe it. At that moment, I could see Nutrisystem paying off.”

If you’re interested losing weight alongside Francis, the actress is inviting others to join her on her weight loss journey and #pledgetolose on Nutrisystem’s Facebook page.