Candace lost 71 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Candace lost 71 pounds. This mom of four is determined to break the cycle of illness in her family and live a long healthy life. She embraced a low carb, high protein diet, worked with a trainer, and refused to let other people’s opinions sway her from her mission.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I am 36 years old with four children. I recently lost my mother to Covid on April 18, 2020, and I turned to food for comfort. 

I am motivated by God, my family, and the prospect of feeling better while living a healthy life! My family has a history of weight-related illnesses, and I needed to break the cycle. There were times I felt like this was too hard. However, I kept telling myself, “Am I really going to let food be the reason I can no longer see my children?” I had to keep focusing on the fact that I wanted to someday dance at my daughter’s wedding, run around the park with my kids, and eventually my grandkids. I want to fit on rides at Disney without the kids getting embarrassed. 

How did you change your eating habits? 
I adopted a low carb, high protein diet. I cut out fried food, bread, sugar, soft drinks, candy, pasta, chips, cake, beef, pork, and whole milk. I added in lots of fruits and veggies. I eat chicken, salmon, occasional shrimp, and turkey. I also drink lots of water and a cup of green tea daily.  

What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?  
I started working with a trainer three days a week ( IG: @Trainwithdrew). We worked on toning and strength exercises. I incorporated walking at least twice a week and pushed to become more active.  

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight? 
My starting weight was 354 pounds, and now I weigh 283 pounds.

What is your height?
5’7″

When did you start your journey?
July 4, 2020

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?  
No. 

How long did your transformation take? 
This is month #6.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far? 
I’ve learned not to put so much value in other people’s opinions. You have people who will tell you that you look great already, no need to change. You have others who will say you are going to look weird, so don’t lose too much weight. You have those who won’t understand why you order a salad. They won’t understand why you have to work out so much. 

It is not for them to understand. It’s ok to put your health first so that you can truly enjoy your life! 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?  
Start. Stop saying you will start on Monday and start today! Small changes add up to significant results. If you mess up one day, it’s ok. Just start again. It’s your journey. Run it at your own pace! You don’t get a replacement body, so be kind to it.

Also, don’t look for happiness in your weight loss. Do some internal work. True wellness is holistic. Metal, physical, emotional, financial, spiritual wellness all work hand in hand. Once you achieve balance in all these areas, you will discover long-term joy, which far outweighs short-term happiness.

Instagram: @Its_candysworld