Latoya lost 147 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Latoya lost 147 pounds. She struggled with her weight and self-esteem for her entire life. Her turning point came after her mother passed away from cancer in 2017. Determined to turn that pain into positivity, she embraced a plant-based diet and got active by walking.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I’ve struggled with my weight for my entire life. I was a size 18 in middle school, and I lacked self-confidence and self-esteem.  

I watched my mother struggle, as well. She tried several fad diets and bought various exercise equipment throughout her life. When she became ill with cancer in 2017, I watched her go from being vibrant, independent, and mobile to bedridden—ultimately losing her battle quickly during the same year she was diagnosed. After her death, I experienced the worse pain I’ve felt in my life. At times, I didn’t want to live anymore. 

During my struggles with my weight going up and down, she tried to encourage me. She celebrated every little pound I lost. She was my cheerleader. I had to channel my pain into something positive. 

I stopped emotionally eating. I started walking again. When I didn’t feel like taking action, her spirit gave me the motivation. I had to do this for both of us. When I’m feeling low, I hear her clapping for me and saying, “Go head, girl! “That keeps my spirit high. 

I’ve gained so much knowledge on this journey. I wish she were here so I could share this knowledge with her or make our favorite meals in a healthier way. 

How did you change your eating habits?
I started by cooking more and cutting out fast food and processed food. Just doing that made a huge difference for me. Then, I began eating more whole grains and good carbs, like sweet potatoes. A few months later, I started doing No Meat Monday for a few months. 

Now I am entirely vegetarian, and I’m attempting to transition to vegan. I still enjoy eating, but in a healthier way. To keep it going, I research different recipes to try out. I drink lots of water and herbal teas (mainly green tea). I also did a significant cut back on my alcohol intake. I used to drink heavily. 

What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
I’m a big walker. It’s something so simple that all of us who are blessed with the use of our legs can do. In the beginning, I could barely walk a mile. Over time, my distance has increased. I have a daily goal of 5 miles or more. The most I’ve walked in a day was ten miles (5 in the morning and 5 in the evening.) When the weather is poor, I use the treadmill. I’ve recently started using resistance bands and weights.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight is 375 pounds, and my current weight is 228 pounds. 

What is your height?
5’7″

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take? 
I got serious about this journey in 2017 after losing my mother. It’s been three years, and I’m still a work in progress. I’ve been vegetarian for 1yr. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
If you want long-term success, it honestly has to be a lifestyle change. Consistent small changes with lead you to major results.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Don’t overwhelm yourself or compare yourself to others. Be kind to yourself. Mistakes happen because we are human. Just don’t let one off day turn into a bad week. Do better the very next day. 

Everyone’s journey is different. Just make a consistent effort. Being vegetarian now, I recommend not eating meat one day a week. Just eat veggies and fruits or replace one meal with them. Going meatless really propelled my weight loss. I also follow @iamsurvivingvegan. Her page has been extremely informative and helpful. 

Instagram: @cdlight19