The Joy of Losing 145 Pounds
Have you ever looked into a mirror and disliked what you were looking at? Well, that's what happened to Randomwhale. Seeing himself at such a heavy weight was not a laughing matter anymore and prompted him to start his weight loss journey. He has lost an incredible 145 lbs by making changes to his eating and exercise habits.
He contacted us through our Share Your Story feature and provided the following answers to our questionnaire.
1. What made you decide to lose weight this time?
It was around two weeks after I found out that my girlfriend cheated on me. I came to realization that I wasn’t particularly angry with the fact that I was cheated on but more frustrated with what I’ve let myself become. When I looked in the mirror, I hated myself. I usually laughed at being unhealthy and I never really considered it to be a problem. On March 30, 2009, I looked at myself and I couldn’t laugh it off anymore. I was unhappy and unhealthy. At that moment I thought, I can do something about the latter and maybe someday it’ll affect the former.
2. What other "diets" (programs, products, plans, or services) had you tried in the past?
I tried Atkins almost a decade ago but I developed kidney stones because of the salt intake and I never really see it go the long run because it was more of a deprivation diet than anything else. I couldn’t imagine maintaining that sort of diet style for the rest of my life.
3. What changes did you make to your usual diet, activity, lifestyle, and attitude?
I’ve always had enough willpower and discipline thanks to my upbringing but I knew that if I deprived myself too quickly or did too many activities all at once, I wouldn’t be able to last. With this in mind, I started by decreasing my intake. Instead of a mountain of rice on a plate, I moved it into a bowl. Instead of starting off at the gym, I played basketball every day. The most important change I made was making a conscious decision to be 100% committed to my lifestyle change. If I went in half-hearted, I was just wasting my time and money.
4. How did Calorie Count help you to lose weight?
Whenever I was unsure with the nutrition facts of foods, I’d check this site. I’d also recommend it to other friends. I wasn’t able to fill in the food and activity log everyday because I kept a separate journal for that. I went to other sites but I thought their features were incomplete. Calorie count can adjust the serving, divide it into meals and grade the over nutritional value of your diet. It’s really helpful.
5. What was most challenging about losing weight?
The most challenging part was living with people who weren’t dieting. I was living in a studio with around ten comic artists. For those who have no idea how comic artists live, here’s an eye-opener. Artists usually eat instant food, junk food or sweets for the sheer convenience of it and since they have abnormal body clocks (some sleep at night and some sleep at day), the people around me tend to be constantly eating. Although our studio had a maid who would cook and clean for us, she usually cooks fatty foods because the majority of the staff didn’t mind as long as it tastes good and they found it to be a lot cheaper.
6. How long did it take you to see results?
A couple of months after I started, I noticed some changes but since you look in the mirror every day, some changes aren’t as visible. I started out at 325 so any weight change wouldn’t immediately affect my image and since my clothes were huge, I couldn’t see it then. People would say that I’ve gotten thinner but I’d just stock it in as motivation and move on.
7. When did you realize that you were a success?
I wouldn’t classify it as a clear cut realization but more of a moment where I wanted to congratulate myself for going this far. I think major moments included buying a large size shirt (I used to wear XXXXL shirts) and getting to wear my brother’s 36-inch waist line pants (I wore 48-inch pants with a 50-inch belt).
8. How do you prevent relapse?
Besides having a support group, my food log keeps me in line. I believe that having a base diet (A basic diet you go back to after you eat an occasional not-so-healthy meal) allows you to get back on track. At my current lifestyle and diet, I can imagine myself eating like this for the rest of my life. Another thing that helps me during maintenance is my overall awareness on the benefits of healthy eating. I read up on a lot of diet books and I have an idea on the negative effects certain foods have on your health. It’s like telling yourself, “you know it’s bad for you, so why do it?” It’s the same mentality I use to avoid smoking.
9. How has your life changed now that you've lost weight?
I certainly feel better now compared to a year and half ago. I also try and help other friends who’re currently struggling with their own personal weight problems. Shopping for food and clothes has definitely changed for the better. I don’t have to be stuck at the big guy’s section of the men’s department at the mall. When I shop for food, I feel that there are a lot more options now.
10. What five tips do you have for other dieters?
- Keep a food log, update it daily and review it before going to bed. It can be as basic as the name of the meal (Breakfast, lunch, dinner) and the type of food you consumed.
- Don’t get frustrated when your weight suddenly plateaus. It happens to everyone. You just have to continue doing what you’re doing or shift your diet a bit to jumpstart your weight loss. If your weight still won’t budge, go to my next tip.
- Read up. I can’t guarantee which diet books speak the truth but enough of them have enough consistent information that you can use to help you choose which food to consume and which exercises to do.
- Learn to substitute. Some foods are obviously healthier than others so once you settle down with a certain menu for a week, learn to mix it up and analyze. Which foods can I do without? Which ingredients can I change to make this dish healthier? How can I prepare this meal without resorting to deep frying everything in sight?
- Make exercising a habit. A lot of people will tell you that they don’t have time to work out or exercise and when you take a look at the time they spend watching TV, surfing the net, talking on the phone or just plain old daydreaming, you’d wonder why they can’t fit exercise in it. Don’t treat exercise as a form of punishment. Use the mind set of, the more time you spend exercising, the less time you’ll spend in the hospital years from now. It won’t work for everyone but it’s a start.
If you would like us to feature your success story, you can submit it here. The most insightful stories will be featured on this blog and in the weekly "Success Stories" newsletter.
Comments
You look great, and your tips are perfect motivation! I am just curious though, whatever happended to the girlfriend?
GREAT story! I'm with you on keeping a food log and making things practical. ;) The food log helps me the most and creates a mental image before I make a food choice. ;) I"m down 15 lbs and happy about that...I just have about 80 to go! :)
You look great! :) Congrats!
Wow! Dramatic and inspiring! Way to go! Love your "Learn to substitute." tip! This is one of the things I found most helpful in my 125 weight loss so far!
I am excited for yo!
Chris
(see a link to my snacking/weight loss blog in my profile)
Congrats on ur success!!...but i always wonder how to keep log of food on calorie count...i find it a bit confusing...any help!!...
Congratulations , what a change, you look great. I used all of your tips to lose 109 lbs and have kept the weight off for over 5 years. Writing down what you eat keeps you focused , but it seems to be the hardest thing for people to do. Most people look at me and make a face when I tell them to write a journal. I wrote my calories out as well, but they can use computer or whatever works for them if they count calories. Just make time to journal, please, it works.
Congratulations! Keep up the good work!
Original Post by: kathymcnYou look great, and your tips are perfect motivation! I am just curious though, whatever happended to the girlfriend?
I see her walking around the mall once in a while but we don't talk to each other. :)
I really enjoyed reading your story - you have come so far! Your success is truly breathtaking, and I hope you take some time to pat yourself on the back. Thank you for helping to inspire me to keep on this sometimes difficult path.
Wow :] That is amazing! I've just recently quit smoking and I have to stop myself from eating to stop cravings. I like "if it's bad for you, why do it?" I'll apply that to alot of things now :P Thank you for the inspiration
Congratulations...and I loved your response about the girlfriend! 
It's hard being surrounded by people who make unhealthy choices, so you should be very proud of yourself.
Wow I love your gallery, it's a true testament to your willpower. I understand the living with artists, my poor boyfriend goes to an art school and lives in an apartment with five other guys. They ALL eat junk, he's the only one who cooks, and the only one making healthy choices. They're all rich too, so they just go out to eat all the time, but I thank God he knows better (and can't afford to do that haha). Thanks for your story, it really helps me to keep going. I've been taking pics every other day to track my loss. Hopefully one day I can have a gallery like yours.
Original Post by: crazypotato98Congratulations...and I loved your response about the girlfriend!
Actually we broke up but the greatest thing I got out of it was the realization that if couldn't take care of myself, I was in no shape to look after other people.
Thanks for the support. :)
Original Post by: randomwhaleOriginal Post by: crazypotato98Congratulations...and I loved your response about the girlfriend!
Actually we broke up but the greatest thing I got out of it was the realization that if couldn't take care of myself, I was in no shape to look after other people.
Thanks for the support. :)
Obviously, it is HER loss. You deserve so much more, and I hope you find it. Keep going!
145 lb. loss WOW! I know that takes determination, focus and a strong will to do. Congratulations! It may not be easy to make nutritious food choices and keep exercising (when friends are not) but you obviously you know what you need to do to stay healthy and happy. You are an inspiration. Wishing you continued success for life long maintenance and health.
You look fantastic! Congrats on your amazing success and positive outlook!
awesome. I need success stories to keep me motivated. thank you for sharing!
Original Post by: runnerchick69Yes I have looked in the mirror and didn't like what I saw but 100 pounds later, that has changed! Congrats on such a huge life changing weight loss! I am sure your story will inspire others
Thanks! Congratulations to you too. ^____^
Original Post by: jutzeeGood for you. Maybe you better change your name to "minnow"!
Hahahaha. I'll think about it. Thanks!
Original Post by: ateachergirlGREAT story! I'm with you on keeping a food log and making things practical. ;) The food log helps me the most and creates a mental image before I make a food choice. ;) I"m down 15 lbs and happy about that...I just have about 80 to go! :)
You look great! :) Congrats!
Thanks so much! Yeah, a food log really helps you be aware of what you're consuming everyday. Good luck on your weight loss journey. Keep it up.
Thanks for the support.
Original Post by: snacker_chrisWow! Dramatic and inspiring! Way to go! Love your "Learn to substitute." tip! This is one of the things I found most helpful in my 125 weight loss so far!
I am excited for yo!
Chris
(see a link to my snacking/weight loss blog in my profile)
Thanks! Yeah substituting is easy. :) Congrats on your weight loss.
:)
Original Post by: marjeanne1944Congratulations , what a change, you look great. I used all of your tips to lose 109 lbs and have kept the weight off for over 5 years. Writing down what you eat keeps you focused , but it seems to be the hardest thing for people to do. Most people look at me and make a face when I tell them to write a journal. I wrote my calories out as well, but they can use computer or whatever works for them if they count calories. Just make time to journal, please, it works.
Yeah. People find the journal pretty weird too but at the end of the day, reviewing what you ate really helps. It keeps you focused and it's really easy to make it a part of your routine. Congratulations on losing weight. Your determination is an inspiration to a lot of people. :)
Original Post by: chefcorkyCongratulations! Keep up the good work!
Thanks man! I will. Good luck to you too. :)
Original Post by: cheesiestI really enjoyed reading your story - you have come so far! Your success is truly breathtaking, and I hope you take some time to pat yourself on the back. Thank you for helping to inspire me to keep on this sometimes difficult path.
I'm really happy you liked my story. It means a lot. Good luck on your weight loss. :)
Original Post by: insularflyWow :] That is amazing! I've just recently quit smoking and I have to stop myself from eating to stop cravings. I like "if it's bad for you, why do it?" I'll apply that to alot of things now :P Thank you for the inspiration
I actually got that from one of my teachers. It's so simple but it makes so much sense. Why develop habits that might kill you someday right? Thanks! :)
Original Post by: rhcpgirl23Wow I love your gallery, it's a true testament to your willpower. I understand the living with artists, my poor boyfriend goes to an art school and lives in an apartment with five other guys. They ALL eat junk, he's the only one who cooks, and the only one making healthy choices. They're all rich too, so they just go out to eat all the time, but I thank God he knows better (and can't afford to do that haha). Thanks for your story, it really helps me to keep going. I've been taking pics every other day to track my loss. Hopefully one day I can have a gallery like yours.
Thank you so much. I admire your boyfriend's willpower. It's really hard to live with people with unhealthy lifestyles but sometimes all you can do is live right and hopefully you get to inspire others to follow. :)
Good luck on your journey. I'll be looking forward to your progress :)
Original Post by: hobbbsOriginal Post by: randomwhaleOriginal Post by: crazypotato98Congratulations...and I loved your response about the girlfriend!
Actually we broke up but the greatest thing I got out of it was the realization that if couldn't take care of myself, I was in no shape to look after other people.
Thanks for the support. :)
Obviously, it is HER loss. You deserve so much more, and I hope you find it. Keep going!
Thanks so much! I will. :)
Original Post by: darcy53145 lb. loss WOW! I know that takes determination, focus and a strong will to do. Congratulations! It may not be easy to make nutritious food choices and keep exercising (when friends are not) but you obviously you know what you need to do to stay healthy and happy. You are an inspiration. Wishing you continued success for life long maintenance and health.
Thanks so much. I'll try my best to continue on the path of healthy living. Good luck and god bless!
Original Post by: pushbuttonkittyYou look fantastic! Congrats on your amazing success and positive outlook!
Thanks!!! :)
Original Post by: scjamiawesome. I need success stories to keep me motivated. thank you for sharing!
You're welcome. Good luck :)
Brother you are an inspiration!
I started using CalorieCount about 2 wks ago and I really like it. I am 6'1 348lbs and I have set a target of 200 lbs. at first I thought it was a pretty lofty goal, but after reading your story and some of the comments made here I know that it is attainable.
Thanks for sharing RandomWhale!
-Jildacorp
I forgot to ask how long did it take you to lose all of the weight?
Original Post by: jildacorpBrother you are an inspiration!
I started using CalorieCount about 2 wks ago and I really like it. I am 6'1 348lbs and I have set a target of 200 lbs. at first I thought it was a pretty lofty goal, but after reading your story and some of the comments made here I know that it is attainable.
Thanks for sharing RandomWhale!
-Jildacorp
Thanks!
Good luck on you journey!
As for how long, it took me a solid 1 and a half years to do it.
:)
Original Post by: aslihaaliceWOW! this is so good, and amazing as well actually i think 1 coke daily, which increase my weight day by day, i thing i have to quit but i can't i don't know y or may be i am addicted now...
Jobs in middle east??? Wrong website!!
Great work ! My husband and I are "newbies" to this site. We have been on it for 20 days now and love it! My husband has lost 14 lbs but we both know that was do to giving up his HUGE love for pepsi and his huge love of food! I have lost about 5 pounds and would love another 10 , and my husband another 20. We are like little kids when we log out for the day and we see that we keep getting better and better at meeting the "targets"!
As far as you getting it back together with the weight loss ,I too am curious as to what happened to the girl friend?
Good luck and forge ahead!
The Morgans!
Original Post by: noreenmorganGreat work ! My husband and I are "newbies" to this site. We have been on it for 20 days now and love it! My husband has lost 14 lbs but we both know that was do to giving up his HUGE love for pepsi and his huge love of food! I have lost about 5 pounds and would love another 10 , and my husband another 20. We are like little kids when we log out for the day and we see that we keep getting better and better at meeting the "targets"!
As far as you getting it back together with the weight loss ,I too am curious as to what happened to the girl friend?
Good luck and forge ahead!
The Morgans!
We broke up 2 weeks before I started dieting.
Thanks for the support!
Good luck on your weight loss journey!
Original Post by: kellygirl01your da man randomwhale!
great story.. very inspirational.
xx
Thanks! :)
congrats! very inspiring story...
am working so hard to lose a lot of weight... am also logging my intake, i lost 7kgs since December, hopefully i'll lose more til i reach my target.
Original Post by: adeline_1973congrats! very inspiring story...
am working so hard to lose a lot of weight... am also logging my intake, i lost 7kgs since December, hopefully i'll lose more til i reach my target.
Thanks!
I wish you luck on your weight loss journey!
you are an inspiration. i took a lot of notes from your post. i'll use them to inspire my journey. thank you
You look wonderful. You can be really proud of yourself. 145lbs is another whole person. Best of luck to you in the future. You will find happiness with someone new and you can certainly be happy right now with your wonderful accomplishment.
Original Post by: marjeanne1944You look wonderful. You can be really proud of yourself. 145lbs is another whole person. Best of luck to you in the future. You will find happiness with someone new and you can certainly be happy right now with your wonderful accomplishment.
Thank you for your support ^___^
american
apples
asian
beans
beef
blog
bmi
breakfast
calcium
calories
cheese
chicken
chocolate
coffee
confidence
cooking
dessert
diabetes
diet
dieting
dietsinreview
dinner
eggs
emotionaleating
exercise
family
fiber
fish
fitness
fruit
goals
healthyeating
hunger
hungrygirl
inspiration
italian
mediterranean
mexican
mindset
motivation
nuts
obesity
party
pasta
portioncontrol
potatoes
protein
quinoa
recipe
recipes
salad
self-esteem
sleep
snack
snacks
soup
spinach
stress
successstory
sugar
support
tbl
thebiggestloser
tips
tomatoes
turkey
tv
vegan
vegetable
vegetables
vegetarian
water
weightloss
workout
yogurt
Yes I have looked in the mirror and didn't like what I saw but 100 pounds later, that has changed! Congrats on such a huge life changing weight loss! I am sure your story will inspire others