Alicia lost 67 pounds

Weight Loss Story of the Day: Alicia lost 67 pounds.  After being diagnosed with pre-hypertension, it was time for a lifestyle change to improve her health. Check out what she shared with us about her weight loss journey…

I wanted to share my story with you ladies in hopes of inspiring other women to be their very best, and to recognize their greatness (at all sizes)! My motivation to lose weight was improving my health. I was diagnosed with Pre-hypertension when I was 25 years old. I also suffered from constant, chronic fatigue due to the excessive weight I was carrying.

Now, I drink nearly a gallon of water per day. I stopped eating McDonalds, and most fast foods, honestly. I believe in eating at least one cheat meal per week to create balance, but McDonalds is never on the menu! In my younger years, I was a Minute Maid Juice addict and could easily drink a half a gallon of Grape Punch Minute Maid in one day. Minute Maid has been replaced with bottled water and flavored water.

Despite being a graduate counseling student, and working full-time, I work out at least 4 days a week. My transformation took nearly two years, because I honestly lost focus on several occasions. I’m 5’7″ tall and my highest weight was 254 pounds. I currently weigh 187 pounds. I mix cardio with strength training, and I do a High Intensity Interval Training class once a week at my gym.

My advice to others who want to lose weight is to stay motivated and know that you are doing this for YOU! Health is more than physical, it’s mental as well. Always make sure your goals are your own and that you practice loving yourself during each step of your journey. Find healthier foods that you truly enjoy! I’ve always loved chocolate, so I discovered that Weight Watchers makes delicious, low-fat ice cream sandwiches that I eat when I’m tempted to grab some red velvet cake. However, every once in awhile, I do have a slice of red velvet cake because it’s important to not be afraid of food. Food is not the enemy, but we must all learn how to create balance in our lives, and not over indulge. I realize over-eating and over-indulging is truly where my weight gain came from, not one slice of red velvet cake. Also, be sure to create a goal that’s healthy for your body type. All women were not meant to be a size 3, and that’s perfectly fine. I’m a size 12, and I have excellent cholesterol and blood pressure!