Yvonne has gone from a size 22 to a size 14

Transformation of the Day: Yvonne has gone from a size 22 to a size 14. Her biggest fear came to life when she was diagnosed with high blood pressure and prediabetes. Two years ago, she got serious about getting healthy. Intermittent fasting and plant-based meals are two of the tools she used. Check out her story.

What was your motivation?
Working in the medical field, I know how serious both diabetes and high blood pressure can be. Almost four years ago, my biggest fear came to life when I learned that I was prediabetic and had high blood pressure.

The doctor wanted to give me medication. He convinced me to try taking meds until I could get it under control. I felt awful, and after a few days, I stopped taking them. I was determined to turn it all around through diet and exercise, so began transitioning to a healthy lifestyle.

At first, I looked for quick fixes instead of permanent changes. I would lose 20 pounds and gain back 30. I was also an emotional eater. Two years ago, I became very serious about becoming healthy. I even started a small online support group for accountability.

What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
When I want to give in to my emotions or eat, I think about my life. My children are adults now, and I want to travel the world. I look at before and after pictures, and I can see how far I’ve come.

How did you change your eating habits?
I started eliminating simple carbs and junk food from my diet instead of just abstaining from it. This has been key.

I do Intermittent Fasting at least six days a week. I have a 16:8 fasting schedule, eating eat from 11 AM to 7 PM. I love it because I can adjust the time for special occasions and still stay on track. I eat mainly a plant-based diet, but I do eat fish and chicken occasionally. I love smoothies and usually start my day off with one. I’ve witnessed the amazing results IF can bring.

What is your exercise routine?
For exercise, I walk at least four times a week and do a home-based workout.

Starting Weight/Current Weight
My weight had been up and down since I hit my 30’s. When I turned 40, the weight came on even faster. I went from a size 16 to a size 22. I avoided the scale as much as possible. I’m 5″6, and I began my weight loss journey at 268 pounds. I’m sure my weight was higher than that at some point. Now, I try not to focus on the scale as much. I currently wear a size 14.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
I had to learn that I am what I eat. If I eat junk, I will feel like junk. I have to take responsibility for what I consume and for how much I exercise. It’s a journey, and I’ve learned to get back up if I fall.

What advice would you share with people who are just starting their journey?
For those who are just beginning the journey, I would say that consistency is critical. Find a realistic approach to achieving your goals. Find something that you can maintain and make it a lifestyle change. Find a support group and refuse to give up.

Instagram: @destine845
Facebook group: (W)inning (W)hile (L)osing