Mel lost 66 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Mel lost 66 pounds/4.7 stone. She credits her success to working out at home, reducing her portions, avoiding fizzy drinks and avoiding sugary foods. Check out her transformation story.

I’m a proud mum who lost 66 pounds/30kgs/4.7 stone in 16 months. I have two children, ages 11 and 8. I’m 38 years old and 1.65 tall (5’4″).

I mostly credit my success to portion control, calorie reduction, drinking warm/hot water throughout the day, avoiding fizzy drinks, avoiding caffeine and avoiding sugary foods. I also found home-based exercise routines helpful. When the right motivation kicks in, it just happens.

What was your starting weight and what is your current weight?
I began my journey my weight loss journey on Jan 2, 2018, starting at 104kgs /229 pounds/16.3 stone. I have now reached my goal and I currently weigh 163lbs/ 74kgs / 11.6 stone. Now, I’m in the maintenance stage and working on losing my kangaroo pouch.

What was your motivation?
Over the years, eating unhealthy foods and a lack of exercise led to continuous migraine headaches. Now, I’m feeling good and I haven’t had a migraine headache for the last 12 months.

How did you change your eating and exercise habits?
I started by reducing my portions for all meals. I ate gluten-free foods, such as sorghum porridge, beans, nyimo (Bambara nuts), oats and fruit. I also drank 1.5-2 liters of warm water each day and eating more vegetables and organic foods. I avoided sugar, caffeine, crisps, tea, coffee, and fizzy drinks.

My exercise routine ranges from running, walking, swimming and doing equipment-free exercises at home, such as squats, yoga, and Zumba. I usually stretch and then squat for 10 minutes before every morning bath. I go to the gym once or twice a month to use the equipment and swimming facilities.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson is knowing what works for you and acknowledging that it’s an individual journey, not a marathon. It’s all about the diet and portion control.

What advice would you like to share?
Your body needs all kinds of nutrients so my advice is whatever plan you follow, don’t deprive your body of certain nutrients. However, I do suggest reducing your portion sizes.

Know yourself. Do it for you and for your health. Do it for you when you are ready. IF NOT YOU, then WHO? IF NOT NOW, WHEN? Whatever you decide to do, show yourself some love and take your time. It’s a journey, not a marathon. Health is wealth!

I hope my story will inspire someone.

Instagram: @mel_nyakwima