1. Health

Spotlight on Success: Nikki M.

From , former About.com Guide

Updated November 16, 2009

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Welcome to "Spotlight on Success," a new article series about real people who have lost weight and kept it off! This week I would like to tell you about my friend Nikki Matthews who lost 57 pounds over the course of a year and has kept it off.

Question:
Please tell us how you lost weight.

Answer:
I began keeping a food diary, measuring portions and filling up with fiber.

Question:
Which of those do you think had the biggest impact on your weight-loss efforts?

Answer:
Definitely measuring portions. I did it for real -- with cups and spoons. And I measured everything. Even the milk in my coffee (Two teaspoons!).

Question:
What was your biggest weight-loss challenge?

Answer:
Breaking the habit of mindless eating. Just reaching for food and not even realizing it!

Question:
What is your favorite healthy food and a "guilty pleasure" that you still indulge in?

Answer:
My favorite healthy food is any Kashi cereal because they are so nutritious and filling. My guilty pleasure is an old-fashioned grilled cheese sandwich.

Question:
You shared a tip for an article I published a while back. Now that you have kept the weight off, what is your "top tip" for others who want to lose a lot of weight?

Answer:
That you don't have to be perfect. A lot of it is just starting over once you do something "bad" and not going back to old habits when you get frustrated. (And you will!)

Question:
How has losing weight affected your life?

Answer:
Feeling better in general is important and I also can do more with my kids. I have more energy and look forward to activities with them more now. It's really the best part.

If you have lost weight and kept it off and would like to share your story, contact your Guide!

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