Keisha lost 149 pounds

Keisha lost 149 pounds. As she transitioned into her 40s, she was determined not to let PCOS, high blood pressure, depression, and low self-esteem stop her from living a healthy life. She made practical changes to her eating habits, worked out, and never gave up on her goals.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
My transformation took two years. I began my journey in 2018. A few years earlier, I was diagnosed with PCOS and high blood pressure. I was suffering from depression and low self- esteem. I hated how I felt the next morning after binging on unhealthy foods because I didn’t believe there was any hope for me. I had been on and off the weight loss roller coaster so often, which left me feeling discouraged.

What was your motivation?
When I started settling into my 40s, I knew I had to do something. I was determined to improve the quality of my life. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it naturally, without surgery. I also didn’t want to die from a stroke, massive heart attack, or any other illness related to being overweight.

My motivation was a desire to prove to myself I wasn’t a failure. I am strong and powerful. I wanted to live a healthy and fulfilling life so I can help other people like me who are suffering from hopelessness.

How did you change your eating habits?
I started off making small changes to my diet because I didn’t want to set myself up for failure. For example, I replaced soda with seltzer water, and I replaced white potatoes with sweet potatoes. As I felt myself getting stronger, I took it up a notch. I removed all processed and refined foods from my diet, like bread and junk food. I ate lean and clean. Salmon, chicken, turkey, veggies, and sweet potatoes were a staple of every meal.

What did your workout routine consist of? How often do you workout?
My workout routine consisted of cardio 3-4 times a week at the gym. Then, I began weight training 2-3 times a week.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 383 pounds, and I currently weigh 234 pounds.

What is your height?
My height is 5’7″.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that sacrifice may hurt, but in the end, the reward is victory.

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
The advice I have is never give up. Never stop believing in yourself, even when you feel like giving up. And if you should happen to stumble on your journey, get back up, dust yourself off, and keep moving towards a healthier future. Don’t allow guilt and shame to weigh you down.