Melissa lost 47 pounds. Over the years, her weight fluctuated, and her self-confidence was severely affected. However, during quarantine, she had time to focus on clean eating, intermittent fasting, and fitness. Now she is living her best life and enjoying the fruits of her labor.
I’m 25 years old, and I’m from New York City! I’ve always been kind of “chubby/ stocky.” I felt like my weight/body was the only thing keeping me from feeling like I was perfect (in my eyes at least, lol).
During my sophomore year, I decided that I didn’t want to finish my college career at home. I wanted to live in a dorm for my junior and senior years. I was around 190 pounds when I left home (I’m 5’7″ and at the time I wore a size 14). I quickly gained MORE weight because of the unlimited junk food and dining hall options. The dining hall was a common hangout spot for my friends and me, featuring buffet-style breakfasts and unlimited ice cream!
I cooked my own food when I lived at home, but I didn’t have access to a kitchen during my first year in the dorm. My weight skyrocketed to 220 pounds( my heaviest). I was wearing a size 16, I was super sad, and I felt like my social life was heavily affected. I also felt that people kept playing me with slick remarks about “big girls.” I did not feel cute at all! My face was big, and I wouldn’t go out because I dreaded clothes shopping. I was only 20/21 years old, but I felt like my life was over, and my prime was passing me by.
During the summer before my senior year (2016), I decided enough was enough! I dedicated myself to running 4-6 days a week, clean eating, and not drinking alcohol for six weeks. I lost 20 pounds! I was happy to be out of the 200s, but I was nowhere near my goal!
I turned 21 that summer and used that as an excuse to eat and drink. I slowly put more weight back on during my senior year (2017). I floated in the 190s for another three years. Then Covid-19 hit in March 2020, and gave me another opportunity to lay low, grow, and reach my body goals!
Since April 2020, I’ve lost about 20 pounds. I weighed 196 pounds in April. As of July 2020, I weigh 173 pounds… the smallest I’ve been since high school! I’m nowhere near my goal. My goal is to be 150-160 pounds.
Eating habits and exercise: I went to the gym in my apartment complex, did at-home workouts, and used intermittent fasting to lose weight. Running is also part of my routine. The process is day by day. I won’t lie to you; I’m not perfect, just deliberate and conscious.
I cut back on MEAT and white RICE! I’ve never been a soda drinker, so increasing my water intake wasn’t an issue either. I drink a gallon a day of lemon-infused water and drink green tea every morning as well.
Motivation: Honestly, My motivation was strictly about looks! I didn’t think about health and the other benefits. My confidence has skyrocketed. I can wear clothes I could never wear before. I’m no longer out of breath when going up or down stairs. My skin is better, and I finally feel my age. People say I look even younger now, whereas before, people would say I looked 25-28 (when I was only 19-21)! I was super excited to turn 25 years old in August.
Advice: I encourage everyone on a weight loss or health journey to follow motivational pages and never forget your “WHY”!
My Instagram and YouTube: @Melbihsotrue
Comment Via Facebook