Itanza lost 33 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Itanza lost 33 pounds. She was not happy with the prospect of having to take blood pressure pills for the rest of her life. Her doctor said that weight loss could improve her condition, so she took action through healthy eating habits and lots of exercise. Check out her story.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My blood pressure has been a struggle to maintain since I became heavier in my older years. These last 4 to 5 years, I have been on blood pressure medicine. I hate taking medication of any sort, especially pills! Most doctors just said, “It is hereditary, and you should keep a low sodium diet.” Well, that’s not an answer I was willing to accept, because I do not want to take pills! The final recommendation was to lose weight and see if that works. BINGO! I needed to drop the pounds as I was overweight, and my body couldn’t sustain the extra pounds.

Some days are harder than others when it comes to being consistent with eating healthy, drinking water, and working out. I have thoughts of just going back to my old ways and giving up, but then I think about all the issues that come with that. I have a long life ahead of me, and I don’t want it cut short due to something I have control over! My daily slogans are “YOU GOT THIS!” and “Just keep pushing forward!”

How did you change your eating habits?
I cut out bread and incorporated more veggies and fruits with each meal. The saying is, “EAT CLEAN.,” and eating clean is what I did. I also got rid of seasoning salt. Now I use Mrs. Dash seasoning when making meals.

When sitting down for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, I eat smaller portions. I use a salad plate and not a regular dinner plate. The most significant change came from counting calories as it gives you a visual of your calorie intake.
Examples:

• Gourmet Supreme – Spangles – 700 Calories
• Medium Fry – 520 Calories
• Medium Soft Drink – 190 Calories
• Total Calories 1 Meal – 1,410 – HOLY MOLLY

Tell us about your workout routine.
I started working out vigorously at least 4 to 5 times a week. Cardio became my best friend (1 hour), and I also did strengthen training (30 min – 1 hour). Each day of the week, I would focus on a specific section of the body, such as legs, core, arms, and back while using weights. Recently I have started running, and it is kicking my BUTT, but in the end, it will be worth it!

Starting weight/Current weight
I started at 198 pounds, and now I am at 165 pounds. I am 5 feet, 2.5 inches tall.

When did you start your journey?
My consistent journey started again (Yes, again) in February 2019. I hit my goal weight of 157 pounds and fell off the bandwagon. It happens, we are human! Ideally, I am shooting for 150 pounds, so I currently have 15 pounds to go. (No weight loss surgery)

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson I have learned is to never give up on yourself and to be consistent! Consistency is key!

What advice would you like to share?
Be patient. Nothing that’s worth keeping just happens overnight! YOU ARE YOUR BIGGEST FAN! Stay active, be consistent, eat healthy, watch your calories, and LIFT HEAVY!

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