Small Changes to Lose 87 Pounds
If you ever wondered what a difference losing 87 pounds can make, just look at Shajea28, who in addition to improving her health now also has more energy and confidence, and higher self-esteem. You can judge for yourself how great she looks by checking out her before and after shots.
She contacted us through our Share Your Story feature and provided the following answers to our questionnaire.
1. What prompted you to begin this weight loss journey? Did you have an "Aha!" moment?
My weight loss journey was prompted by the realization of how unhealthy I was. Following a fasting lipid profile, I realized that my dyslipidemia was only one of several risk factors for the development of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease.
2. What other "diets" (programs, products, plans, or services) had you tried in the past?
I have tried several exercise regimes previously, with each one lasting for a shorter and shorter duration and the results were not forthcoming.
3. Please describe how you reached your weight loss goal. What changes did you make to your usual diet, activity, lifestyle, and attitude? Did you implement any other strategies besides Calorie Count? What was the most important change?
Achieving my current weight resulted from an overall transformation mentally and physically. I changed my attitude towards exercise, weight loss and dieting. I reviewed online resources and utilized Calorie Count's tools. I also educated myself on how to read nutritional labels.
Overall through cutting calories and gradually increasing my exercise to include cardiovascular training and weight training, I was able to transform my body to a catabolic state.
4. Please describe how Calorie Count was instrumental to your weight loss.
Calorie Count was used as my food browser to record daily caloric intake in my food journal and exercise journal. The Success Stories also provided a tremendous source of inspiration.
5. What difficulties did you experience losing weight?
Initially my weight loss was extremely slow; however, I continued to persevere and then gradually started seeing the results. Additionally, I relocated to a new country two years ago and I regained 20 of the previously lost pounds. However, I am now back on track to achieving my goal.
6. How long did it take you to see results? When did you realize that you were a success?
It took approximately 3-4 months to see any noticeable results. I realized I was a success after reaching my weight of 170 pounds.
7. How do you prevent relapse?
I am constantly looking back at how far I have journeyed. Also, looking at old pictures of myself serve as tremendous inspiration and is keeping me focused on my goals.
8. How has your life changed now that you've lost weight?
My life has changed tremendously; I am more confident, outgoing and now I am able to serve as a source of inspiration to so many.
9. How long have you maintained your current weight?
This is 2 years now since I've lost the weight and kept it off.
10. What tips do you have for other dieters?
- Keep perseverance with your dieting and fitness regimes.
- Avoid yo-yo dieting.
- Use Calorie Count to log your food and exercise.
- Remember there is no quick solution, but rather aim for gradual weight loss over a specified period and always set realistic goals!
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! I especially noted where you said your weight loss took an "overall transformation mentally and physically." That may be the key for me, I think. I especially have to change my attitude towards exercise.
You are absolutely beautiful.
Congratulations on your success and maintaining that!
You must feel wonderful in addition to looking great! Thank you for keeping me motivated and inspired.
Fantastic job! The only thing that hasn't change is your smile. Congratulations!
Way to go! You're a wonderful, successful example of how changing one's lifestyle can change one's life.
thats great shela , wonderful results , though it seems so difficult to remain consistent in approach to lose i have battling my weight loss and hav been regaining it all the way .. this is jus happening from last 10 months!!
Congrats, you look wonderful. Best of luck with your lifestyle change into the future.
Thank you for your story. Sharing that the weight came off slowly is very helpful, as I have struggled for years. I would lose weight quickly and then gradually it would come back. The last 4 years I have started to give up and my body and health have taken the toll. Reading your journey brought me back. I am looking forward now to putting one step forward and trying again. Thank you.
What a transformation. I loved reading your story, thanks for sharing. Just the positive reinforncement I need. I am now at 50 pounds lost, and I have about 30 more to go. Seeing it can be done is giving me hope! Thanks!
Congratulations. What did you do as far as exercising & eating that helped you become successful in your weight loss journey?
I incorporated exercise into my daily routine , gradually reduced portion sizes on the not so healthy foods in my diet until I was able to do without them .I counted calories learning to stay within a limited calorie intake per day !! Hope this helps
Thank you to all of you who have read my story !! Believe in yourselves whenever you fall off the wagon , just pick yourself up and dust it off and prepare to get back on track .Challenges will also come our way but its learning to deal with these that makes the difference .
Shajea28, You are absolutely beautiful. I love the fact the the true inner personality is able to come through when we lose weight and feel good about being in the skin we're in. A lot to be said for being healthy and feeling good. Job well done. :)
I like the tip you gave "aim for gradual weight loss over a specified period and always set realistic goals", thanks for sharing, that is very helpful, I think if one can do this, one can maintain their motivation.
Wow - great story - thanks for sharing! You look great! I visited the success stories for my motivation today and it worked! :) Keep up the awesome attitude.
Congrats on your weight loss and positive attitude You look beautiful!
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Beautiful!! Congratulations on your hard work!!