Ebony lost 133 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Ebony lost 133 pounds. This mom was struggling with pain, kidney issues, high blood pressure and sleep apnea. She opted to have the gastric sleeve surgery and it changed her life. Now she’s able to do things she couldn’t do before she took control of health. Check out her story.

I started my weight loss journey in December 2013. The reason why I chose to have weight loss surgery: One day, I looked at a picture and did not see myself at all. It was almost like some other person had taken over my body. At that very moment, I knew that I had to do something.

I started the process of having the gastric sleeve procedure in December. I had surgery in July 2014. My starting weight was 262 pounds, and at 5′ 2 1/2″ it was hard to carry all that weight around. Not only did I have sleep apnea, high blood pressure and kidney issues, but it was also hard for me to move without feeling some sort of pain. I decided that enough was enough.

My best inspiration was my daughters. Not only did I want to an inspiration to them, but I wanted to be an inspiration to others as well. Last year, I did my very first 5k run. I’ve also been a cheerleading coach for a period of two years. Without the surgery, I would have only dreamed of accomplishing things like this. Weight loss surgery may not be for everyone, but it give me the tools to take my life back and be a healthier me.

Eating Habits: Before surgery, I cut out sugar and any beverages that had surgery in them. I don’t eat a lot of red meat anymore. I’m more of a chicken and fish lover now. I have to do high protein diet: fish, chicken, protein shakes and bars. Basically anything that doesn’t have a high sugar content. I also read food labels. Just because they say it is good for you doesn’t necessarily mean it is.

Exercise: I don’t have a serious workout routine. I mainly walk and use a workout DVD by Chalene, which helps when you are on the go. It has a combination of different types of exercises from yoga to HIIT.

My current weight is 132 pounds. I’ve lost a total of 133 pounds and I lost weight quickly. Within a year, I lost 100 pounds.

The advice I would give anybody who is considering weight loss surgery is don’t do it because you think it’s a easy fix. Do it because it will help you have the right tools to live a healthier life. Don’t be so hidden in your body that you forget to discover your true self. Step outside your comfort zone. It was one of the best decisions that I’ve made. It’s an amazing feeling to walk without pain.

Instagram: @momma79