Hilda lost 29 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Hilda lost 29 pounds by changing her eating habits. She struggled with her weight for many years, experiencing significant weight gain after having twins. In July, she reached out to a friend who was launching a weight loss program and found the nutritional guidance and support she was looking for.

I have always struggled with my weight. It has gone up and down my entire life. When I was younger, I was always active and playing sports. However, I was still on the larger side and considered obese, according to the doctor’s office charts. After having my twins, I had gained the most weight I’d ever gained in my life until I reached 218 lbs. I hated being this big, but I felt stuck. I felt like I couldn’t get rid of the weight. I may have lost 10lbs or so, but never more than that.  

When the pandemic hit, unfortunately, I got infected with COVID-19. However, my symptoms were mild. I lost my sense of taste and smell. What has been so tragic, and it truly has been for many people and families, ended up being my silver lining and the start of my weight loss journey/lifestyle change. 

I lost about 15 pounds just while being sick and not having an appetite. I really wanted to keep the momentum going, but in a healthy way (opposed to pretty much fasting every day), so I joined a program a friend of mine created. He was launching a pilot, and I figured, “Why not? What do I have to lose? (but some weigh, lol) I signed up, and my life has completely changed. I have lost weight, but that is the smallest success I have achieved since being in the RPP program. I have a whole new relationship with food. This has helped me refocus my personal relationships with my loved ones.

What does RPP stand for?
RPP stands for Reverse Protein Pyramid. This program is great because it is easy, you don’t have to count calories or points, you can eat as much of the approved foods as you like, and there is no strenuous activity involved. The best part to me is you are a part of a community who are all on similar journeys and very supportive. I find when you have a support group, you are more successful with anything.

How did you change your eating habits?
I used to eat what I thought was a balanced diet; fruit/veggies, protein, and carbs. I indulged in sweets from time to time. I never really ate breakfast and often skipped lunch. The RPP program teaches you to eat HIGH protein/Low Fat and eliminate sugar and seed oils. Now, my diet is mainly protein (any kind of meat) whey-based protein shakes, and very few vegetables. NO fruit, grains, flour, corn, or sugar.

What did your workout routine consist of? How often do you workout
When I was at my highest weight, I was not really working out. I have not worked out since before I had my twins, which was about five years ago. I tried to get a trainer and work out maybe two years after having them, but I was not successful in losing the weight. On the RPP program, all you have to do is Walk (minimum of 30 minutes a day). I usually walk more than that, about 45-60 minutes a day. Recently, I started incorporating Pilates/Barre into my routine. I work out 6-7 days a week.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
When I started RPP on July 22, 2020, I weighed 197 pounds. Today, I weigh 168 pounds. I am stronger than ever, physically and mentally. I am still on my journey, and my journey is life. I do not believe I’m on a diet. I have adopted a new healthy lifestyle that incorporates a healthy meal structure and exercise program.

What is your height?
5’3″

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, not at all.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
SELF LOVE! I realized that it is not always about the number on the scale. It’s about how we feel and how we treat ourselves. What we put in our bodies matters. I also realized that putting me first is ok because when I am at my best, I can be at my best for those that need me. I have a new found love for MYSELF.

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
I would tell them to commit to being the best version of themselves they can be. Whatever it is (weight loss, getting off BP meds, getting better sleep, lowering cholesterol, etc.), take it one day at a time. Join a community that will support you and who can relate to you and your journey. 

Also, be kind to yourself. We all have bad moments. Just remember to be forgiving to yourself, get back up on that horse, and keep riding. Don’t give up on yourself because you are important. You are an awesome human being who is needed on this earth.

Instagram: @foodaliciousgirl