Lina lost 45 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Lina lost 45 pounds with healthy eating habits and exercise. She overcame depression, emotional eating, and unhappiness to reach her health and wellness goals. Her four sons are her inspiration.

What was your motivation?
I was depressed and unhappy, and the scale kept climbing up. I became an emotional eater in my early 20s, which was a way to cope with my emotionally/ physically abusive marriage. I also take care of my elderly mother.

I was tired of being tired. However, it wasn’t until I had a routine physical and my doctor told me my A1C was elevated that I said enough is enough. I wasted no time. Once I got those results, I was like, “I’m done with excuses.” 

I’ve worked in the healthcare field for years, so it wasn’t like I didn’t know any better. I just let my relationship with food get out of control. This isn’t my first weight loss journey, but it is my last. Eating right and staying active is now my lifestyle. 

What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I would say my inspiration is my four sons. Actually, my 22yr old son said something to me that has stuck with me on my journey. In the beginning, I wasn’t as consistent with working out. One day he asked me if I was going to the gym, and I said, “Nah, I’m just not motivated.” He said, “That’s just it, Mom. It’s not about being motivated. It’s about being disciplined.” Needless to say, I’m proud of the wisdom I’ve instilled in my young man! His words have helped me out tremendously. 

How did you change your eating habits?
I started with intermittent fasting and the Keto diet. I still do intermittent fasting, but I no longer do Keto. Instead, I eat a moderate protein and low carb diet that includes complex carbs like sweet potato, corn, legumes, etc. 

I stopped eating fried and processed foods, sugary foods, and drinks. Moderation has been a big part of my diet also. I wouldn’t say I have cheat days, but I do have days where I don’t restrict myself from eating what I want. I eat it, get right back on track, and the weight has not stopped coming off. Again, it’s about discipline. That’s what has been working for me.

What is your workout routine?
My workouts consist of cardio and weight training. 

How often did you work out?
I work out 3 to 4 times a week.

What was your starting weight?
237 pounds

What is your current weight?
192 pounds

What is your height?
I’m 5’4″.

When did you start your journey?
November 1, 2021

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No

How long did your transformation take?
Six months

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
That what you eat is what brings the results on the scale.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Do what’s best and works for you, Sis. There is no cookie-cutter way or manual to weight loss. What worked for me was changing my mindset about food and exercise. It’s the mindset for me.

Instagram: @iblaqbutterfly