Nazarae lost 54 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Nazarae lost 54 pounds. She was tired of constant depression, not having a social life, and allowing weight to dictate her life. In April, she started her transformation journey. Learning how to track macros and create a meal plan has been a game-changer for her.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My motivation came after facing constant depression, always feeling tired, and allowing my weight to dictate my life. I got tired of losing friends and not having a social life because I was ashamed of my weight. 

How did you change your eating habits?
I became more familiar with macros. I’ve done tons of diets in the past, and they never worked for me. Learning how to count macros allowed me to create a meal plan filled with foods I like. My macros breakdown at the moment is 40% carbs/30% protein/30% fats. 

Also, I added more fruits, vegetables, and superfoods into my diet. Drastically cutting back on fast food helped as well. (Embarrassingly, I used to eat fast food 2-3 times a day). 

What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
For the first five months, I walked, used the “just dance” app, and used home workout videos from Beachbody. Lately, I’ve been focusing more on weight lifting, powerlifting, and running at the gym. 

I try to work out 5-6 days a week. I work out for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours per session. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 303 pounds, and I now weigh 249 pounds. My journey is still ongoing. 

What is your height?
5’9″

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started my journey on April 16, 2020. Around late August, I went to a family gathering, and my family could immediately see my transformation. It took a little over four months for my transformation to take place. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, my weight loss is natural. 

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
In the beginning, all I wanted to do was lose weight for superficial reasons, thinking my life would be miraculously perfect if I were skinny. Although I still weigh myself to see my progression, my goal now is to nourish my body and appreciate it for all that it does. I also want to find a happy medium of pushing/challenging my body (because it builds strength physically and mentally), while loving myself regardless of my weight. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Regardless of your weight, love your body. Trying to lose weight from a place of hate towards yourself is really hard. I would HATE myself for indulging, overeating, not sticking to a diet, or whatever. I would feel so bad that I would binge eat (I’m an emotional eater). It created this never-ending cycle that led to depression, unhappiness, and confusion.

Instagram: @nazzy_gets_healthy