Transformation of the Day: Natassa lost 77 pounds. When she barely recognized herself in birthday photos, this mom of three decided that it was time to change her life. Now she has a healthy relationship with food, she’s becoming a Pescatarian, and she works out 5-6 days a week.
What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going. Even when you wanted to give up?
My biggest motivation happened last year around my birthday. I the pictures that were taken and barely recognized myself! I just could not believe that I put on so much weight. I got on the scale, and it just confirmed that I weighed 252 pounds. I was so shocked because that was the biggest I have ever been. Also, this happened during the pandemic, and eating was my only activity! I was eating very unhealthy foods.
I made a promise to myself that I would not be the same size next year on my birthday! I’m a wife and a mom of three wonderful children. I want to be in the best possible health for them. As we all know, life can get hectic, so I knew I had to improve my lifestyle.
How did you change your eating habits?
I had an awful relationship with food. I used food as comfort and as part of having a good time. It took me two weeks to learn how to control my portions before I started working out. I began by removing sodas, sweets, and bread. I have a serious sweet tooth! So I could indulge in a dozen cookies and a family-size bag of chips with no problem.
I just took it one day at a time, slowly removing more and more unhealthy foods from my diet. I started filling my plate up with vegetables to help me get full and feel satisfied. I cut down on eating meat to 2-3 times a week (only eating turkey or chicken). I stopped eating fried food and completely cut out pork and beef. As of now, I’m transitioning to the pescatarian lifestyle.
What did your workout routine consist of? How often did your work out?
I started working out with my brother-in-law. Because of him, I found my love for the elliptical and situps. He is a certified trainer, and I would see him three days a week. The workout would consist of basic HIIT exercises I could handle at my pace. Now, I work out 5-6 days a week with added weight training days in between.
What was your starting weight?
252 pounds
What is your current weight?
175 pounds
When did your journey start? How long did your transformation take?
My journey started in August 2020. It’s still ongoing. I’m at -77lbs lost. My goal is to reach a -100lbs weight loss goal. My transformation to 175 pounds took nine months.
Is weight loss part of your surgery journey?
I did not have weight loss surgery.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I learned is that quitting is not an option, and because of that, I realized how badly I wanted this lifestyle change. No matter how or if I mess up, quitting is not an option.
What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
The very first thing I would say is to know how bad you want this! This is a journey. It is going to get tough, and people are not always going to understand your journey! Take it one day at a time. Be gentle with yourself if you slip up because it is okay! Always remember this not a race. It’s a journey. It’s a lifestyle change. You got this! I’m rooting for everyone!
Instagram: @tasha_journey165
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