Janice lost 162 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Janice lost 162 pounds. She reached the point where she didn’t recognize the woman starring back at her in the mirror. The mother of three is determined not to let her life and her time with her children be cut short due to poor health. Since 2014, she has changed her life by having Gastric Sleeve surgery, cutting out unhealthy eating habits, and putting in work in the gym.

What was your motivation?
I woke up one day, and I realized that I did I recognize the woman looking back at me, so I told myself that I had to do something about it. 

I remember going to the doctor and seeing the scale read 422 pounds. I was in shock. I could not believe it. I remember thinking to myself, like wow…” How could I have let myself get this big?”

What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I have three kids, and I have seen other mothers and fathers around me lose their lives due to their health. I did not want to be one of those mothers if I could help it. Health should be the #1 priority. As parents, we need to make sure that we are around to raise our children and help them live healthy lives.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
October 2014. My transformation took four years.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
Yes, I had Gastric Sleeve weight loss surgery in March 2018.

How did you change your eating habits?
I started researching smoothies, Herbalife, juicing, Keto, low carb… and I remember feeling overwhelmed like, “Wow, this is a lot.” The 1st thing is 1st. I used to eat chocolate and drink a Pepsi as my breakfast, lunch, and dinner (6-7 20oz Pepsi’s a day). Once I changed my eating habits and started to eat an omelet for breakfast, and chicken breast, broccoli, and cheese for lunch and dinner, the weight started to fall off. 

I detoxed by juicing different green vegetables. I made smoothies with frozen fruit, protein powder, and veggies. I would drink two premier protein shakes a day and eat salads. Let’s say that within the last six years, I have tried it all.

What did your workout routine consist of?
In the beginning, I was so lost. The gym seemed intimidating. I felt like people were watching me and judging me, but I did not give up. After about a month, I had learned the machines, but I strictly did cardio because I know that was what I needed. 

I started on the treadmill for 1 hour in the morning, and then I would do 1 hour at night. Next, I moved to the elliptical, and now I complete 500 steps a day on the Stairmaster.

How often did you work out?
I work out Monday thru Friday at 6 am before work, rotating cardio and weights. On Saturdays, I work out for 2 hours in the morning doing cardio and weight training. I rest on Sundays.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 422 pounds, and my current weight is 260 pounds.

What is your height?
5’7″

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
Take it one day at a time, and do not compare yourself to anyone else. No two people’s journeys will be the same. No two people’s bodies will be the same. However, one thing is for sure: DO NOT GIVE UP! 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Just start! Start somewhere, whether it be drinking water instead of juice, removing fried foods from your diet, or not eating out, start and stay consistent.

Instagram: @workouts_with_jan