Leslie lost 30 pounds. Being healthy, looking good, and feeling good is her motivation. She researched Intermittent Fasting and found a fasting window that works for her. She also became very active, often walking 5 miles a day.
What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I currently have high blood pressure. My family history is heavy in Diabetes, HBP, Cancer, and Heart Disease. I have always loved fashion and dressing trendy. I felt like I owed it to myself to be healthy but also look good and feel good. I am happier than I’ve ever been in my life, so why not reach my ideal healthy weight also?
How did you change your eating habits?
I became interested in Intermittent Fasting at the beginning of 2020. My weight was around 202 pounds. I started off all over the place, lol. I would do a 12 hour fast for a couple of days, and then I’d try 16/8. I would fast a few days, and then I’d go back to eating the regular way. I tried different fasting windows on and off throughout the year.
Finally, in October, I made up my mind to do OMAD. On the morning of October 3rd, 2020, I woke up and said that I’m going to do an October OMAD challenge. I announced the challenge on my social media pages, which made me accountable for my words and commitment. I started the month off at 201lbs. By the last day of the month, I was down to 186.8lbs. This was nearly 15lbs in one month. I felt better than ever.
At that time, I was very strict about OMAD being a 23:1 fasting window. Since then, I have done more research and evolved. Currently, I fast anywhere between 19-23 hours per day. I crave more whole foods now. However, I still enjoy all of my favorite foods, just with discipline.
What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
I worked out very often. Sometimes I had over 100,000 steps a day on my FitBit. I walked at least 5 miles per day, and sometimes I planned tennis in the evenings as well. I live in Ohio, where the winters are cold, so now I find unique ways to get at least 5 miles in per day.
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My highest weight in 2020 was 202 pounds, and I am currently at 172 pounds. My goal weight is 155 pounds. I lost 30 pounds with IF in 6 months.
What is your height?
I am 5’7″.
When did you start your journey?
I started tracking my weight in July 2020.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
I’ve learned that Intermittent Fasting is a Lifestyle and a Journey. It isn’t a diet or a fad. Also, there is no perfection, only progress. My journey doesn’t look like anyone else’s journey, and I’m fine with that. This journey takes time. Even though I lost almost 15 pounds in October 2020, that doesn’t mean that I’ll lose that much every month. As long as I am making progress and my blood work looks healthy, I am happy! I am currently being evaluated by my physician to be taken off of my high blood pressure medicine.
What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight? I would say to give yourself the same grace and patience that you would give your best friend. I’d like to take that a little further and say, ‘Be your own best friend’, love yourself, and smile at yourself in the mirror. You guys are stuck with each other! You VS You.
Let others inspire you, but don’t let comparison take your joy! I’m here to inspire along the way!
Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, I’ve never had any type of surgery.
Instagram: @leslieannpolk
Facebook: @leslieannpolk
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC2cjetykpyTtVON2X7yhoEw
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