Darriel lost 80 pounds

Darriel lost 80 pounds. After being hospitalized, she knew that life was not a game, and it was time for a complete lifestyle change. Practicing patience, maintaining a calorie deficit, and running was all part of her journey. Check out her story.

What was your motivation?
It took having to be hospitalized because of my horrible eating choices for me to realize life is no game. It took almost losing my life for me to realize how bad it had gotten.

Eventually, you get tired. Tired of being “the fat friend,” tired of your clothes not fitting, and tired of having no energy. I had to realize that the only thing that was stopping me was me. I knew that in order to bounce back, I had to make a complete change. I made a change, and now I’m determined not to stop.

How did you change your eating habits?
I changed my eating habits by first adapting to a calorie deficit (with the approval of my doctor, of course). I cut out fried foods, chips, candy, juice, and anything that was unhealthy. I started limiting my red meat intake and ate more seafood.

Tell us about your workout routine.
In the beginning, I didn’t work out as much. Then, I started walking and gradually got to a point where I could run. I tried my best to exercise at least three times a week.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 270 pounds. Now I fluctuate between 190-193 pounds, but I don’t pay much attention to the scale because the inches tell a diff story. My height is 5’4″.

When did you start your journey?
I started my journey last year but could never seem to get right. I would lose and gain repeatedly. It wasn’t until December 2018 that I took this process more seriously and stuck with it.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is to trust the process. The scale won’t move every week, and that’s okay. You just have to continue to work.

What advice would you like to share?
Be encouraged! Read IG transformation stories, look at pictures, and know that you are not the only one fighting this battle. Also, trust the process. Things don’t happen overnight, so you have to be patient.

Instagram: @Smilesobright_