Nikkie lost 72 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Nikkie lost 72 pounds. An abusive relationship led to emotional eating and weight gain. When she was diagnosed with Type II diabetes earlier this year, she decided that being on medication for the rest of her life was not an option. Check out how she changed her life.

Starting weight: 295 pounds
Current weight: 223 pounds
Height: 5’8″

I started my journey on February 6, 2017.  I remember the exact date because this is the day that I was diagnosed with Type II diabetes. I immediately decided that I was not going to be on medication for the rest of my life. Like so many of us, I am an emotional eater. Having been in an abusive relationship, I turned to food to comfort me. After all, cheesecakes never made me feel bad per sé.

During the time that I received my diagnosis, my job was offering a weight loss program called NaturallySlim. I signed up for it not really knowing what it was about. It was life changing. In the first month, I lost 15 pounds!

Without going into specifics of the program (because of trade secrets), the program taught me to recognize when I was hungry vs. thirsty and how to stop emotional eating. Voluntarily, I gave up sugary beverages, junk and processed foods and opted for real food instead.

If I have a sweet tooth, I grab fruit. I eat lots of dark green leafy veggies, fruits, nuts, lean meat and fish. I stay away from processed food, such as bread, rice and pasta. I still go out to eat occasionally, but I stay away from or limit foods high in carbs or starch. If dessert is served, everyone at the table will split it.

I don’t necessarily have an eating plan, I just make sure that I eat slower (which gives your brain enough time to recognize that you are full), control my portions and cook more at home.

I workout at 3-4 times a week. My exercise routine consists of cardio and weight training. I work at a hospital which allows me to get up and move during work hours.

I still have 23 more pounds to go and I’m happy to say that. What motivates me to keep going? My daughter, my health, and the price of clothing. That’s right! The heavier you are, the more expensive the clothes are. Whenever I wanted to give up, I would look at pictures that I took of myself. I took new photos every 30 days just to see where I came from. It kept me going!

My advice to you is the following: If you are in an abusive relationship, leave if you can. Emotional eating can put your health in danger. Knowing the difference between eating when you are hungry or bored, and using portion control can do wonders for weight loss. Find like minded people to help you and keep you encouraged. You can do it! Let’s do it together!