Transformation of the Day: Estriana lost 77 pounds. She didn’t feel that she was practicing what she preached as a nurse and she wanted to have more energy to keep up with her kids. Low carb eating and drinking green smoothies worked for her. Check out her journey.
What was your motivation?
I was motivated to lose weight several times in my lifetime. However, this time the motivation came from having recently given birth to my second son, and not feeling like I was practicing what I preach as a nurse. I wanted to be able to play with my children without being ashamed that I didn’t have the energy or endurance I needed. I initially started seeing a doctor with plans to have surgery to lose weight, but after a few checkups I became more motivated to lose the weight naturally.
What kept you going during the rough times or when you wanted to give up?
I’ve never wanted to give up on losing weight. Whenever I had setbacks, I did my best to recognize that I was going back to old eating habits and get back on track.
How did you change your eating habits?
I went to a weight loss clinic years ago and was trained on low carb dieting. After experiencing setbacks when I gave myself “cheat days”, I realized that I was over indulging too much. This time, I cut down on unhealthy carbs, because sweets are my weakness. I trained myself to focus on eating healthy carbs, like fruits and veggies. I also bumped up my protein intake and I got into the green smoothie diet. It has become my routine to have a smoothie everyday for lunch.
What did you do in terms of exercise?
I went from walking on the treadmill to jogging. I also alternate my workouts by doing weight training to tone my muscles. I job 3 miles, up to 3 days out of the week. I became a Zumba instructor a couple months ago and have been practicing to instruct my own class in the near future. I share my workout progress in my Facebook group.
Starting weight/Current weight
I’ve gone from 245 pounds to 180 pounds, and now I weigh 168 pounds. I am 5’1”.
How long did your transformation take?
I started my journey in June 2015, and it took me a year to see a complete transformation, but I still have another 25 lbs until I reach my goal.
What advice would you share with other people who want to lose weight?
My advice to others is to never give up, keep positive and create a mental picture of your goal. During each stage of my weight loss journey, I bought a pair of jeans to serve as a short term goal, and celebrated when I was able to fit them. Now, I’m not far from being able to wear the jeans that represent my long term goal, and I will rejoice once I’m wearing them.
I am no longer who I was yesterday. Today is a new day to continue to be greater than before. I am truly blessed. I went from unhappy to finding myself. Now, I’m joyful, mind, body and soul. I’ve started a Facebook group page, Inspiring Life Changes, to provide positive feedback and support people who are fighting the same battle I’ve fought. That’s also where I document my battle.
Instagram: @Estrimabrand
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