Cynthia lost 50 pounds

Cynthia lost 50 pounds. She found her motivation when her doctor warned that she would have to take insulin if she didn’t lose weight and get her A1C down from 11.7. She exercised, improved her eating habits, and leaned on her faith to keep her going.

What was your motivation?
I found my motivation when my diabetes doctor told me that I would have to go on insulin in addition to the pills I take for my diabetes if I didn’t lose weight and get my A1C down. My A1C is currently 5.6, down from 11.7 in January 2020. 

What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My inspiration was seeing my results and hearing my doctor tell me that if I continue losing weight and keep my A1C down, he will take me off one of my diabetic medications in June. I take Metformin and Jardiance in the morning and Metformin at night. I’m also inspired when I hear my family members calling me “skinny.” I haven’t heard those words since Spot was a puppy. 

How did you change your eating habits?
I cut out a lot of fast food. I don’t eat them like I used to, but if I feel like eating Popeye’s, I do. I started eating more fruits and vegetables and drinking more water. I still have a soda when I crave one. I try not to deprive myself of what I like to eat or drink because I don’t want to fail. I’m not on a food plan/diet. I’m just learning to bake my foods and use my Ninja Foodi more. 

What did your workout routine consist of?
My workout routine consists of walking. I started walking five days a week outside on a track for 3 miles. Then, I started walking 4-6 miles five to six days a week. Now I do 6 miles three days a week. I also use YouTube videos for weight training. I’m working on my arms right now, and next, I’ll start on my stomach. I go to the gym when it’s raining outside.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 247.5 pounds. My current weight is 197.7 pounds. My weight had got up to 253 pounds at one time. 

What is your height?
5’3″ 

When did you start your journey?
January 2020. 

How long did your transformation take?
January 2020 to January 2021 – One year so far. I still have a ways to go, but I’m excited about how far I’ve come.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
I didn’t have weight loss surgery. I just started walking and got these results. 

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
I learned to keep going when I want to give up. There are days when I don’t want to let go of my pillow, but I made up my mind that I’m not giving up yet. Devil, get behind me because God and I are going walking. I know that without God, I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in now. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Ladies, don’t give up. You just have to make a start. It gets hard, but it’s so worth it when you see results. Start walking slow, and your walking speed will increase. 

Don’t tell yourself I’m on a diet. Just say I’m cutting back and learning to eat healthy. My cheat day is Saturday. I don’t go overboard, but if there’s something I want to eat. I eat it.