Latisha lost 70 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Latisha lost 70 pounds. Back in 2012, she was pre-diabetic, unhappily married, and pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This busy mom’s lifestyle change included a healthy diet, regular exercise, and a divorce. During her journey, she developed a love for running.

In 2012, I was overweight, prediabetic, unhappily married, and pursuing a bachelor’s degree. As a busy mom and wife, many of our meals were boxed processed foods that were practical, quick, and easy but extremely unhealthy. Realizing my weight was affecting my quality of life, I decided to take action. 

I adopted a healthier lifestyle, which included a healthy diet, regular exercise, and a divorce. After losing close to 60 pounds, I discovered a passion for running. I started my running journey on the treadmill, running 3-6 miles 4 -5 times a week. 

After chatting with a friend, I found out about a running group called Black Girls Run in 2013. I joined the local chapter, joined the weekly runs, and I have been running ever since. I did my very first organized run (a 10K) in 2014. I ran 6 miles a little under an hour. I was hooked from there! 

These days I run 2-4 days a week 3-6 miles, and I continue to maintain a healthy diet. Over the last eight years, I have lost a total of 70 pounds and maintained my current weight for the last five years. My children, who are both adults now, have been my greatest motivation! 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 220 pounds, and my current weight is 150 pounds. 

How did you change your eating habits? What is your current workout routine?
In 2012, I decided to enroll in an Optifast program offered through my employer. I was on a medically monitored liquid diet for about two months. This allowed me to jumpstart my weight loss, and I lost 40 pounds. 

After completing the 2-month liquid fast, I began to incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables into my diet. I also stopped eating processed foods. During this timeframe, I also started to power walk five times a week 3-5 miles. As I began to lose more weight, I decided to take my workout up a notch, and I began to run. 

My current workout routine consists of 3 weekly runs or hikes, 3-5 miles a week. I also practice yoga and meditation seven days a week. 

What is your height?
5’7″

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The greatest lesson I have learned is health is wealth! Honestly, my whole quality of life has changed due to adopting a healthy lifestyle. I also learned that mental, emotional, and spiritual health is equally as important as physical health. Meditation, yoga, and running have allowed me to decrease stress and anxiety while also keeping me physically fit. 

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
No matter where you are in your weight loss journey, stay motivated! Be kind and gentle with yourself. It is an uphill battle, but the benefits you’ll reap will be well worth it in the end! 

Instagram: @sour_patch_luvs2run