Nicoya lost 99 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Nicoya lost 99 pounds. She found her motivation after being diagnosed with Lupus and Hypertension. She’s gone from walking to running to lifting weights, and she worked with a nutritionist to change her eating habits. Check out her journey.

What was your motivation? What inspired you when you wanted to give up?
My motivation for weight loss came after I was diagnosed with Lupus and Hypertension. I knew that I had to make significant changes to better myself emotionally and physically. I wanted to live a healthier and longer life for my husband and my kids. Once I started seeing changes and feeling better, I knew I had to stay committed.

How did you change your eating habits?
I met with a nutritionist who outlined a meal plan for me. I made a few changes based on foods I preferred more. I ate more protein, vegetables, and fruit. I also ate healthy snacks like yogurt and nuts. I eliminated all juices and only drank water. I cut out desserts and cut back on eating out. If I did eat out, I would choose lite menu options.

What did your workout routine look like?
I started walking for an hour, three times a week, for the first couple of months. Then I took my cardio up a notch and started running. The weight just started melting away. Once I got the weight off, I slowly transitioned to weight training. I only did about 30 minutes of cardio per session and focused on toning instead.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 268 pounds. I currently weigh 169 pounds, and I love it. I’m 5’5″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started my journey about 2 years ago, and I’m still working on it.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that if you want it bad enough, you can do it. I’ve also learned that this has to become a lifestyle change and change is not going to happen overnight.

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
My advice would be to take it one day at a time. If you have to start over, it doesn’t matter. Be proud of every accomplishment you make, even the little ones. You have more people rooting for you than you think.

Instagram: @getatnik