Keisha lost 50 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Keisha lost 50 pounds with healthy food and exercise. The stress of being a student and getting her first job as a hairstylist led to weight gain. She changed her mindset and focused on making changes that would result in long-term success, not just a quick fix.

Age: 23
Heaviest weight: 215 pounds
Current weight: 165 pounds

Due to the stress of going to school and getting my first job as a hairstylist, I gained extra weight. When I got home from a long day of being on my feet, my back and hands ached. I just wanted to sit down, relax, and eat. After I decided to quit doing hair, I decided to focus more on myself and my overall health. I got a more manageable job, and I began to change my life.

What was your motivation?
I finally realized how much my body changed when I saw a video my niece took of me. Seeing that made me stop lying to myself. I stopped saying that my body was fine the way it was, and I decided to focus on getting healthier.

How did you change your eating habits?
I stopped drinking juice and soda and just stuck to drinking only water to avoid empty calories. I started with this small change because I knew that I could maintain and be consistent. Then, I slowly stopped eating as much junk food, like candy, chips, etc., and I started counting calories. Now, I like to portion and weigh out my food. I eat a variety of healthy and filling foods, and I drink at least 64 ounces of water every day.

What did you do in terms of exercise?
For exercise, I like to go on a lot of walks when I can. It’s a good way for me to exercise in a way that I can actually enjoy and not dread. There are times when I do some weight training as well. However, I mostly will go on a nice hour-long walk around my neighborhood.

What is your height?
My height is 5 feet tall.

When did you start your journey?
I started my journey in July 2019 and reached my current weight around February 2020. So, it took about seven months for me to lose 50 pounds.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, I didn’t have weight loss surgery.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
I learned not to take my body for granted. You need to give your body everything it requires to function correctly, especially for later in life. Losing weight is not impossible, like people make it seem. You just need to make it sustainable and do it in a way that works for you personally so your results can be maintained for life. Weight loss is not just a goal that you hit and give up.

What advice do you have for people who want to lose weight?
Know that it is not impossible. Make sure you are losing weight in a healthy way. No quick fixes, no cleanses, and no pills will help you lose weight in the long run or change your mindset. Changing your mindset when you are ready for change will help you lose weight long term.

This time, I decided not to cut out the “bad food” completely. Instead, I limited it a lot more so I wouldn’t want to binge. This decision helped me sustain my weight loss and not feel as bad about my occasional cravings.

Instagram: @keisha_thebeloved