Jasmine lost 42 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Jasmine lost 42 pounds. Her journey began with a two month weight loss bet between her and a co-worker. Shedding pounds, seeing her health improve, and having more energy inspired her to keep going. Calorie counting and intermittent fasting are two of the tools she used.

I am a 27 year old southern girl residing in North Carolina. I’ve always struggled with belly fat and grew up being very self-conscious about my body as I matured into the woman I am today. I tried the “I’ll work out for a day or two” routine. Then, I would go back to my old eating habits. I just didn’t sticking to it consistently for years. 

What motivated me to start working out and being consistent this go-round may be silly, but this journey I began with a two-month bet with a co-worker. I was determined to win and also motivated to continue to lose weight. During those first two months, I lost about 10 pounds, which inspired me to keep going. Physically I wasn’t where I wanted to be, but I was happy. I was happy with the fact I saw an improvement in my health and energy levels, which inspired me to keep going. 

How did you change your eating habits?
I knew that working out alone wasn’t going to get the weight off. I had to change my eating habits. I changed my eating habits by cutting out sodas, juice, snacks, and any sweets. I also limited my starch intake and did intermittent fasting. I only ate between 12 pm and 8 pm, and I consumed lots of water (drinking teas and occasionally coffee). 

Eating fast food was a hard habit to break. Realistically we all can agree that fast food is easy and convenient, but I made sure I only ate it in moderation. If I were to eat fast food I would order salads and chicken wraps with no side of fries. Anytime I ate at restaurants, I’d order high protein foods like seafood or chicken with a side veggies. 

An excellent resource for tracking your food consumption and for calorie counting is the app My Fitness Pal. Not only does this app track the food you log in, it also allows you to log your workouts and calories burned. I have an Apple Watch, so my watch connects with the app and does the logging for me. 

Tell us about your workout routine.
On average, I work out 4-5 times a week. I have two upper body days, which consist of arms, back, and core, along with some cardio. I have two lower body days when I work hips, glutes, thighs, and legs. I also have one full body day. On each of these days, I do a minimum of 30 minutes of cardio and an hour and a half of strength training.

Starting weight/Current weight
My starting weight was 190 pounds on February 15, 2019. I currently weigh 148 pounds, and I am 5 feet, 3 inches tall. To some, that may not seem like a lot of weight loss in a year, but I am more proud of myself than I could ever be. I must say I lost 30 lbs in the first five months of my fitness journey, from February to July of 2019. I have a YouTube video stating how I began my journey and the details of what it took for me to lose those pounds.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No. Weight loss surgery isn’t in my plans by any means. I feel that as long as you stay consistent, determined, and change your eating habits, you can accomplish your fitness goals without surgery.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned through this journey is to love yourself for who you are and never let someone tell you how to be you! Self love is the best love. 

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
My best advice is to do what works for you. Do not let anyone critique you or tell you how you should live your life. If you want to start a weight loss or any journey, set your mental. It all starts with your mindset. Once you’ve gained that determination, it’s time to set the plan. 

Stay consistent with your plan and keep yourself motivated. What motivated me was my results, staying consistent, and being determined. Take progress photos for yourself so you can see your growth and achievements. 

By far, I am not where I want to be on my fitness journey, but I am determined to get there! I am willing to help and support anyone who would like to lose weight naturally. 

Instagram: @Sayhellomykitty
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCRTm1m6aomMPA5DvJ_j7I0A