Lisa lost 55 pounds

Lisa lost 55 pounds with healthy food and exercise. After her thyroid was removed due to thyroid cancer, losing the pounds got even more challenging. In 2014, she started taking steps to transform her life and her eating habits. At 51 years old, she is thriving and encouraging people to embrace healthy habits. 

There is a poem that perfectly describes my health journey. It’s called a “Beautiful Mess.” This is ME. I looked cute but felt like a huge mess. 

In 2008, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and underwent a complete thyroidectomy. Losing my thyroid set my weight challenge into overdrive. In 2014, seeing a photo taken during a girlfriend’s birthday celebration in Florida changed my WHOLE life. I couldn’t believe it was ME. 

I’ve been on this journey for seven years. I’ve had ups and downs. I can honestly say that I finally figured out what works and what doesn’t work for me. I enjoy this lifestyle, even the challenges. I’m still a work in progress, especially now that I’m 51 years mature, Lol. I purposely use every day to encourage someone to live a healthier lifestyle at all levels. I do this in my walking group, called SOLE2SOLE, and my fitness groups. Getting healthy to stay healthy is my goal! 

How did you change your eating habits?
In the beginning, my eating habits were horrible. I didn’t eat. I basically starved myself. Then I tried different plans, from Weight Watchers to Nutrisystem. Next, I got a nutritionist who created a healthy diet for me. It worked for a few months, but then my non-metabolism body caught on. 

It took a couple of years to figure out how to trick my body into burning fat. Since 2017 I have done just that. I detox with JJ Smith’s green smoothies for two weeks every other month, followed by a meal plan which usually consists of Keto foods or micronutrients.

Tell us about your workout routine.
I love working out now. However, it was a struggle in the beginning. I would sleep in my workout clothes to motivate myself. I tend to work out 5-6 times a week. I do mostly strength training, HIIT, and cardio.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 215 pounds, and today I weigh 160 pounds. My goal weight is 150 pounds.  

What is your height?
My height is 5″5.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
Through the ups and downs, I think the biggest lesson has been never be ashamed to hit the RESTART BUTTON.  

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
It’s okay to have a cheat “meal,” not a cheat day. I permit myself a cheat meal every 14 days.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
Although I haven’t had weight loss surgery, I am considering a tummy tuck to remove the remaining loose fat around my abdomen. After four pregnancies and two c-sections, it’s my least favorite area. With it, it’s hard to achieve my desired look.

Instagram: @Lisaasil70