What I Did:
I started at 186 pounds. Over a period of 8 months I lost 46 pounds with a combination of diet change and regular exercise. That was 4 years ago, and I've kept the weight off. Weight loss must be a lifestyle change in order to be effective and long lasting.
How I Did It:
I changed my basic eating habits. From eating highly processed foods, I switched to unprocessed, fresh, and preferably raw foods. Snacks went from chips to fresh or dried fruit, or raw nuts. My favorite advice came from a nutritionist article I saw in the paper. 'Eat food, not too much, mostly green.' Simple!
I do eat two servings of lean protein a day.
I get 30 minutes a day of at least moderate exercise. This can be as easy as the morning walking of the dog, climbing up those flights of stairs at work, cycling instead of driving. Make those 30 minutes attainable and easy to fit into the day. You'll be suprised how quickly it makes a difference.
Tips and Tricks
- Keep healthy snacks available and easy to access. Keep washed, fresh vegetables in the fridge, raw nuts on the counter. Almonds are my favorite. Drink plenty of water.
- Learn to listen to your body and know when you're actually hungry or merely eating out of boredom or stress.
- Don't begrudge yourself the occasional treat. My weakness is chocolate! Just make sure it's not one of your major food groups.
- Exercise! Our bodies are designed to respond to work by becoming stronger. Start slow, keep it up, and before you know it, you won't recognise yourself.
What was your main motivator to lose weight?
I was having trouble keeping up with three active children. I felt tired all of the time and I didn't enjoy physical activity. I didn't feel good!
What was the hardest part of losing weight?
The hardest part is developing new habits - new shopping habits, eating habits, activity habits. You have to realize that this isn't a change for today, but for the long haul.
What was the most surprising part of weight loss?
How good I look! I had no idea that this slender, athletic person existed.
What would you say to someone who is "on the fence"?
Weight loss is about quality of life. It's about long term health and the ability to enjoy all the activities available to you.
