Bricelyn lost 56 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Bricelyn lost 56 pounds. After years of trying to get results, she realized that she needed structure and accountability, so she joined Weight Watchers. The program helped her create a lifestyle she can maintain long term. Check out her journey.

What was your motivation?
My motivation is health, diabetes prevention, and wanting to feel good, comfortable and confident in what I wear and in how I look. Though I never saw myself as unattractive, I did feel like I didn’t carry my weight well because of my height. Also, every time I went to the doctor for a routine visit, I was always told that I needed to lose weight.

I injured my knee in 2015, and that’s when I began gaining even more weight. My orthopedic doctor encouraged me to get my weight down as well because it would be helpful for my knee and lower back.

What inspired you to keep going when you wanted to give up?
Looking back at where I was a year from today, who I am today, and the progress that I’ve made so far inspires me to keep going. I don’t want to go back!

When did you start your journey?
I actually began trying to lose weight in the summer of 2017 by doing an in-home walking video and cleaning up my diet. I stood on the scale that summer and saw 256lbs! That scared me. I thought, “If I don’t change, I’m well on my way to 300lbs.”

After failing to remain consistent with diet and exercise so many times, I admitted to myself that I can’t do this alone. I decided to join Weight Watchers, which is now called Wellness that Works, mid-August 2018. I knew that having structure and accountability would be essential for me. I go to my weekly WW meetings to get weighed in. The meetings are very encouraging and positive. It’s also great to see that I’m not alone. I love to hear success stories and different member’s journeys every meeting.

How did you change your eating habits?
My schedule can get crazy, so fast food was my friend daily. Now, I often cook, which I love, and bring my lunch to work.

Breakfast may be boiled egg whites, turkey bacon and a piece of fruit, Lunch may be baked chicken breast and veggies. For dinner, I might have light chicken alfredo with zucchini spirals (zoodles). My snacks include fruit, baked chips, cheese, pickles… but I don’t snack often.

I still eat out and on the go from time to time, but I practice mindful eating when doing so. I also do kid meals, which are actually filling for me now. Did you know that you can order an omelet at IHOP with egg whites and ask for sugar-free syrup? Yup, you can, and you’re welcome… lol!

What foods did you stop or start eating?
Honestly, I still eat everything for the most part. Weight Watchers is not restrictive, so I never feel deprived. The program encourages moderation and portion control. Following the point system makes it easier for me to track what I eat and how much. Though not perfect, I practice mindful eating now, and I’ve added more fruit and veggies to my diet. I did cut back on sweet tea, which is my favorite beverage. I used to drink it daily. I would rather my calories come from what I eat, so I mostly drink water, unsweetened tea, and unsweetened sparkling water drinks.

What did your workout routine consist of?
When I began Weight Watchers in mid August 2018, I was struggling to be consistent with going to the gym to do cardio 2-3 times per week. With the encouragement and accountability of my personal trainer/workout partner, I now workout Monday through Friday early in the morning. It was definitely something to get used to, but I wake up at 4:30a naturally now. I do cardio on the elliptical and weight training. I take Zumba class occasionally and walk my dog daily. I am also getting back into ballet, which is also a workout.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
I weighed 256 pounds in the summer of 2017 and 233 pounds in August 2018 with Weight Watchers. My current weight is 200 pounds and counting. My height is 5’1″.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
I have learned to be patient during the process and with myself. I still do the most with eating sometimes, just not as often. When that happens, I get back on track the next day. I have had a couple of setbacks where I’d gain a couple pounds (1-3) one week then lose weight the next week. However, I’m remaining consistent which is key to my progress this far, and that’s big for me. Thankfully those setbacks do not happen often.

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
Find something that works for you, something that you can stick to long term because it’s a lifestyle change. The great thing about WW is that once you hit your goal weight and maintain it, you can do WW for free for life! I’m working towards that lifetime goal!

If you can’t see yourself doing something for life, it’s probably not going to help long term. Having accountability is also very helpful. Also, if you are an emotional eater like me, finding healthy outlets for self-care is a must. I’m currently working on more self-care. Having a network of supporters helps me a lot! My family and friends have been very supportive.

Instagram: @briceyolonda