Mo Diva lost 156 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Mo Diva lost 156 pounds by changing her lifestyle and embracing healthy habits. Her turning point came in 2011 when her beloved cousin passed away due to a heart attack. After two and a half years of hard work, this rapper feels healthier and more comfortable on stage.

I weighed 321 pounds in my before picture. I was uncomfortable, and it was hard for me to find clothes. Plus, my choice of foods was just over the top. On Thanksgiving 2011, my first cousin, whom I loved dearly, passed away from a heart attack due to being overweight. My cousin’s passing was definitely an eye-opener. I knew I had to do something. I didn’t want to go through the same thing he did due to something that I could control, so I took action.

It took me two and a half years to lose 115 pounds, but I was determined to keep going. I have to say that it feels great knowing I no longer shop in the plus-size department. Now I am able to find clothes without a problem.

As of today, I weight 165 pounds, which makes for a total of 157 pounds gone. Now I feel more comfortable in my skin. I went from a size 24 to a size 8/10.

My weight never stopped me from doing the things I love or from pursuing my goals. However, now that I have lost the weight, I feel freer. I’m much more comfortable doing what I want and what I love the most, which is music. Being overweight as an artist was a struggle: running out of breath on stage, not being able to move as much as you want because you don’t want to run out of breath and the heavy sweating while performing. I enjoy performing, but I couldn’t move the way I wanted to.

Now that I have changed my eating habits and lost weight, I have more flexibility and comfort when it comes to my performance. It definitely makes a big difference. I’m happier now, and there’s literally less weight off my shoulders.

How did you change your eating habits?
I incorporated more veggies into my diet. I drink a bottle of water before every meal and drink hot tea after every meal.

I eased off on eating carbs and replaced those cravings by eating more protein. When I felt like eating rice or chips, I would reach for a piece of fish or shrimp. I ate more veggies and cut back on juice and soda.

What did your workout routine consist of?
I worked out about 5 to 6 times a week. At first, I was working out day and night because I was very eager to get results. Then, I just made sure I worked out 30 minutes a day.

What is your height?
5’6″

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
Weight loss surgery is not part of my journey. I wanted to see how far I could go without having surgery. Surgery was definitely an option if I didn’t reach my goal or didn’t see any results (then I would have considered surgery). However, I did see results, and I became addicted to seeing results, so I continued to work out more.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is to never limit myself. You really can do anything you put your mind to. You never realize how much food can take over your mind. It takes a lot of self-control to shake those cravings or to say no to the foods that you love.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Keep pushing, and never stop. All the work that you are doing may not show up as results at the present moment, but be very optimistic. Just keep working out and exercising. It’s not just a physical thing. It is great for the mind, as well.

Also, don’t let food control you! You are in control! Remember, that plate of food does not have to be finished. Eat some and save a portion for later. Portion control is another major key.

I also suggest that you try to drink a bottle of water before you eat, and when you do get to your food, you won’t necessarily feel the need to eat the full plate.

Instagram: @modiva305