Nikki lost 140 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Nikki lost 140 pounds with healthy habits and exercise. This single mom of five realized that stress and the pounds were eroding her health. She had gastric bypass surgery and embraced a new healthier lifestyle.

Social Media:
Facebook: Nikki Johnson
Instagram: @Nikkivail97

Hello! My name is Nikki Johnson, and I really wanted to share my weight loss journey with other women who I think have the same things in common with me. I am a single mother of five, and I think the stress of motherhood, the stress of working, and the stress of being single were taking a toll on my health, both physically and mentally. I believe that had a lot to do with my weight gain.

In December 2018, I decided that I wanted to start my weight loss journey. I sat down and talked to my doctor. We worked out a plan, starting with gastric bypass surgery in September 2019. That was the beginning and the push I needed to create a healthier, happier lifestyle.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My health is what got me motivated. I had a check-up appointment one day. My doctor said, “You know Nicole, we need to talk about your weight. It’s really becoming a factor in the issues that you’re having with your health.” 

I started to have bad back problems. Because of my weight, I was having an issue where I couldn’t walk for a long period of time. My back would kill me, my knees were starting to hurt, and I felt as though I couldn’t keep up with my kids anymore. 

I think that was the thing that really got to me. Honestly, my kids kept me going because I want to be able to keep up with them. I have an 11-year-old, a 10-year-old, and a four-year-old. I want to be an active parent for them. So anytime I feel like I’m too tired or don’t want to go to the gym, I look at my kids. My health and the way I am now is the reason why I can keep up with them.

How did you change your eating habits?
The first thing I did when I decided to do my transformation was I did a cleanse. I think that helped me get a new start. 

There are a lot of things I don’t eat, including fried foods, pork, beef, pasta, rice, and dairy. I no longer do caffeine, sodas, or sugar. I don’t eat a lot of bread or juice either. If I do drink juice, I drink natural juice. I eat a lot of vegetables and fruit. 

I do like the ice teas (packets) that are caffeine free. I don’t drink anything carbonated because it gives me heartburn. 

I also substitute a lot of foods with cauliflower. Cauliflower is a good substitute for rice and pasta. I eat a lot of salmon and seafood. My go-to meal is chicken (baked chicken). I also love string beans, and broccoli has become my favorite.

What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
My workout routine consists of working out on the treadmill. I’m on the treadmill for 65 minutes a day, three days a week. Walking is my new thing. Not only is it a way to work out, but for me, it’s also a way to relax and digest my day. Walking has become my new favorite thing. I put on my AirPods and listen to my Shop music. Recently I’ve incorporated weightlifting into my routine.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 315 pounds. The highest I’ve ever been was 320 pounds. My current weight is 175 pounds. My goal weight is 165 pounds. I really like how I look at 175 lbs, so I don’t know if I want to go lower.

What is your height?
I’m 5’3″ on a good day.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started my weight loss journey on my birthday September 2, 2019. It’s taken me about two years to get to where I am, and I love it.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
One of the big lessons I’ve learned in this journey is that the first step is always the hardest. But once you take that first step, the rest is just going to flow.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
My advice to women who want to lose weight would stop putting it off and do it. I know that for me, that was my big issue. I would always say. “Oh well, I’m going to start my new diet at the beginning of the month,” or I would say, “I’m going start a the beginning of the year.” However, you don’t need a starting point. You can decide to start your weight loss journey whether. Just take that first step and do it.