Transformation of the Day: Lisa lost 100+ pounds. After learning that her mobility was at risk, she made a commitment to herself and she’s made good on it. This chef transformed her eating habits with healthier choices and portion control. She also did the work of figuring out how to fit fitness into her life. Check out her 2 year journey.
In March 2015, I realized that I was tired. Tired of excuses, tired of my body hurting, and tired of carrying 130 pounds of extra weight! At 5’5”, I wore a size 24/26 and weighed 297 pounds. I was doing the Most.
I went to the doctor. Along with a diagnosis of arthritis in my hips, he told me I was on the fast track to riding on a scooter to get around. I was DONE! I’m not ready for a scooter, lol!
As a chef, food is my life. Specializing in pastry was just added temptation. However, I knew I could use my cooking skills for good, for me. Immediately, I acknowledged the fact that I could have a ½ of a bite to check the flavor, and that it was not required that I eat the entire dessert.
I did not exclude anything from my diet completely. Instead, I learned portion control and the necessity of eating to live, not living to eat. I dramatically cut down on carbs and added sugar. I focused on protein and copius amounts of vegetables as my mainstay. I also ate fiber rich foods, like beans sweet potatoes and limited amounts of whole grains, such as quinoa and oats.
I use small amounts of coconut oil and pan sprays to replace my beloved vegetable oil. I bake, broil or grill my food and steer clear of frying anything. Hard boiled eggs, low fat string cheese and lean cold cuts are always available for a quick, satisfying protein boost, binge preventer and hunger ender. I do not drink soda or juices. Instead, I drink plain seltzer water, constantly, versus plain water which I do not like.
I have lost the weight in increments, giving my body 4-6 months to stabilize while eating between 1800-2000 calories and maintaining my weight. When it’s time for the next round of weight loss, I cut my caloric intake to 1600 calories and add 30 additional minutes of cardio, 2 times a week.
I bought a fitness band/tracker, which I love. It’s EVERYTHING to me. It keeps me accountable. I can check it anytime to make sure I’m on track. I set reminder alerts for every 1000 steps and make sure I take my 10,000 plus steps each day.
I am at the gym 4-5 days per week. My routine is generally 30 minutes of cardio, 30 minutes of weight lifting, 30 minutes of cardio, 15 minutes of resistance band exercises, 15 minutes of cardio and 15 minutes of stretching/yoga. The trainer at my gym worked with me to develop a program that I can follow and keeps me interested.
This is about a lifestyle change, not a moment in time. I realized that I’m worth the time and energy it takes to change. I let go of the past that kept me wrapped in my weight as protection. I learned to love ME!
It’s been 2 years and I’ve lost a total of 130 pounds through diet and exercise. I began a maintenance period recently. At the moment, I weigh 185 pounds and wear a size 8-10. I will lose the final 20 pounds when I begin again. I’ve never been this size in my life. I am honestly so proud of the results of my hard work. My friends have asked how, what and why. I tell them, “You have a chance to change your future, to reprogram your life. You’re worth it! Do it for you. Your health, your soul… not to get into that cute dress in a month.”
Instagram: @oneivmusic
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