Caitlyn lost 70 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Caitlyn lost 70 pounds with low carb/high protein meals and a consistent exercise routine. She knew that she couldn’t give her all to help others if she didn’t prioritize her health and wellbeing. This Alpha Kappa Alpha soror not only lost the weight, but she’s kept it off for more than a year.

What was your motivation? What inspired you when you wanted to give up?
I have struggled with weight my entire life. While I was always a pretty confident person, I did feel like my weight was a barrier. I am also someone who loves to help people and finally realized I couldn’t continue to give myself to other people and causes if I did not first take care of myself. The desire to take care of myself was the impetus for my decision to lose weight, and being in two weddings in 2019 forced my weight loss timeline. I didn’t want to look back at photos and not be happy with the person I saw.

How did you change your eating habits?
I ate 4-5 meals a day that were high protein and low carb. For my meals, I mostly had some form of protein and vegetable or a protein shake. The plan included no grains, simple carbs, sugar, or dairy. I did drink coffee every morning with Splenda and had my favorite late-night snack – a piece of honey wheat toast and peanut butter, a few times a week as a snack. I also drank plenty of water throughout the day. At one point, I had a goal of around 100 ounces a day. 

I tracked all of my food and water intake, mostly to adjust if I felt like my eating or water intake was negatively impacting my weight loss. To maintain, I have incorporated dairy, grains, and some sugar back into my diet. 

What did your workout routine look like? How often did you workout?
I started by working out three times a week doing classes at the gym. Now, I work out 7-8 times a week (mostly because of the pandemic and not being as mobile as I normally would be). I do a combination of Les Mills Body Combat, Body Pump classes, and workouts I create for myself, mostly strength training and lifting.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 227.8 pounds, and my current weight is 157.8 pounds. I’ve lost 70 pounds. I tend to fluctuate between 155 and 160.

What is your height?
5’3″

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started my journey in October 2018 and started working towards maintenance in May 2019, so roughly 5.5-6 months.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
Weight loss surgery was not part of my journey.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
I’ve lost a significant amount of weight a few times. I think the reason why this time is going to stick is that my mindset around food and taking care of myself has changed. I also genuinely enjoy how and what I eat now. I also place a greater value on taking care of myself.

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
Weight loss is so much more than just eating and exercise. Your mindset and relationship with food have to change, as well. 

I try to follow individuals on social media who are going through a similar journey or have similar goals. I also had developed a community of people at my gym. That always inspires me to keep at it.

Instagram: @caitlyn.a.clarke