Update May 2020: Liza lost 11 more pounds. She is down to 188 pounds.
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Transformation of the Day: Liza lost 231 pounds. After a car accident, her weight hindered her from having a needed surgery, and she was unable to fit into an MRI machine. She transformed her lifestyle by having weight loss surgery and adopting a new mindset and new habits.
When did you start your weight loss journey?
I started my journey in 2018. I am a professional dieter and have lost weight several times. My weight has been up and down. I would lose 100 pounds, gain 80 pounds, and then lose 30 pounds gain… only to gain it all back and then some.
What was your motivation?
I have several motivating factors. My family motivates me. Also, I have been dealing with obesity since childhood.
I was in a car accident a couple of years ago and needed treatment. The Orthopedic surgeon said that I needed surgery, but because of my size, he would not operate. I also needed to have an MRI done, but tipping the scale at over 430 pounds, I couldn’t fit in the open MRI. I felt devastated and defeated.
When the opportunity presented itself in November 2018, I had a bariatric procedure called the Duodenal Switch. This is a restrictive and malabsorptive weight loss surgery. I only absorb 20% of fat and 40% of protein, 60% of complex carbs, and 100% of simple carbs.
How did you change your eating habits?
My diet is heavy in protein, fat, and vegetables. I take lots of vitamins and supplements as well. My integrative medicine doctor did genetic and food sensitivities testing on me, so I do my best to omit certain things out of my diet (folic acid, soy, oats, barley, rice, and pasta.)
What is your workout routine?
Regarding workouts, consistency is key. I walk 4-5 times a week for more than 30 minutes at a time. I also added strength training to my routine with resistance bands at home.
What is your height?
I am 5’6″.
Starting weight/Current weight
At the beginning of my weight loss journey while preparing for weight loss surgery, I weighed 430 pounds. Currently, I weigh 199 pounds. My goal is to no longer have a BMI in the obese category.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I learned is that obesity is a chronic disease and that you have to be diligent with your lifestyle changes. Bariatric surgery is an excellent tool, and I’ve used it to catapult my lifestyle change. I thank God for guiding and leading me in this process.
What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
My advice is that weight loss starts with your mindset, and you have to take it one day at a time.
Instagram: @fearfully.wonderfully.made215
Denise says
You look awesome!