Nicole lost 85 pounds

Weight Loss Transformation of the Day: Nicole lost 85 pounds and 6 dress sizes. Not only did she want to feel better and get off of meds, but she wanted to be a healthy example for her beloved daughters. After years of struggling with her weight and health, she found a weight loss program that taught her healthy eating and portion control. Here is what she shared with us about her journey…

My name is Nicole Ballenger and I am 41 years old. The more I think about it, I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t overweight. I always felt like I was trapped inside my body. I’ve been on several diets, too many to count! My first real weight loss was in 2009 when I joined Weight Watchers. I was able to lose 50 pounds and I felt great. While I was able to keep the weight off for a while, before I knew it, the weight started to come back. On top of that, I was constantly at the doctors office, sometimes up to 3 times a month. I was always on different antibiotics, had zero energy and most days I didn’t want to get out of bed. I just felt miserable!

Besides wanting to feel better physicaly and stop taking medications, my biggest motivation were my daughters. Before I was blessed with them I had 10 miscarriages. When they were finally here, in my arms, I knew that I just wanted to be the best mother I could be. I soon realized that I was such a poor example to them. How could I encourage them to not allow circumstances to hold them back from reaching their goals when I was doing just that.

In March 2013, at 305 pounds and a size 26, I decided to start my journey again. I started with the Beachbody 21 day fix program. I figured if I could be disciplined for 21 days straight, I could finaly get this “party” started. For 21 days, I followed an exercise routine and learned portion control. I cut out all fried and processed foods, as well as sugar. At the end of the 21 days, I was down 15 pounds, but more importantly, I had gained strength and confidence in myself that I didn’t know existed. My family was so proud of me and I felt great. I knew I had to continue.

As of today, I am down 85 pounds and 6 dress sizes. I exercise daily. I’ve started weight training and I even run, something I NEVER thought I could do! I focus everyday on eating healthy. I’m not afraid of food anymore. I no longer abuse food, but I embrace eating healthy and I can’t imagine eating any other way. I haven’t taken antibiotics in over a year. I now get up in the morning ready to face the day! This is my new life and I couldn’t be happier!

My advice to anyone who is struggling with their weight would be, don’t put yourself in a box. It’s time to break free, dig deep and make yourself a priority! There is a whole new life waiting for you on the other side!