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Ajima Jackson

Weight Loss Story of the Day: Miesha lost 98 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Miesha lost 98 pounds.  She has gone from a size 24 to a size 10/12.  Zumba and calorie counting were a big part of her transformation.  Read all about her journey:

“Hi, I am Miesha. At my heaviest weight, I was 293 lbs. I am currently 195 lbs. I’ve lost my weight with hard work and commitment.  No surgery, just the gym, Zumba classes and counting calories . The doctor told me I had high blood pressure and I wouldn’t live, so I had to do something about it

I started my weight loss journey in July of 2011. I was 293 pounds and was diagnosed with hypertension. I had tried so many diets prior to this and none worked. Everyone kept telling me I needed to lose weight. One day I woke up and decided enough was enough and I was going to put the fork down and make a change. I started counting my calories and working out at the gym. I was doing Zumba, hip hop dance, aerobics, hiking and jogging. I got impatient when the weight was not coming off fast enough and wanted to give up. I considered having weight loss surgery and even asked my doctor. I was told no because I was not morbidly obese. I downloaded the My Fitness Pal app and gave it my best. Since then, I’ve lost my weight all naturally. I’ve kept the weight off by still counting my calories, making better eating choices and working out at least 4 times a week. I have no desire to be skinny, just to remain healthy. At my heaviest, I was a size 24W and currently I am in a size 10/12.”

Check her out on Instagram: @MIESHA17

Miesha before and after photos

Lajuana lost 30 pounds

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Lajuana lost 30 pounds. She realized that she was not just curvy, but overweight.  After facing major health issues and surgery, she decided it was time to change her life.  Here is what she shared with us:

Lajuana before and after

“My name is Lajuana Wood and I am so happy to be able to tell my story today! Throughout my life I was told that I was “thick” or “big boned” as individuals like to say in the black community. I didn’t realize that I was really overweight with a curvy shape, leaving me to buy into the coke bottle hoax. I grew up in a single parent home with 4 brothers and most of our meals were soul food and any other easy processed thing we could get our hands on. All our plates looked the same and there was no difference in portion sizes; therefore I never knew any different until I got older.

It wasn’t until I found out I had Hypothyroid that things changed. I knew I’d been gaining weight at an alarming rate but didn’t know what was wrong. Once diagnosed, I had to have my thyroid removed leaving me with a very large scar that scales my chest. This was devastating to me. I was now overweight with this hideous scar and a disorder that keeps my weight on a constant fluctuation. I was so down and I knew I needed a change. I embraced my scar and then embraced needing to live a healthier life. I struggled with the idea of living healthy. “What does that mean?” is the question I kept asking myself each and every time a new diet failed or I had to switch medications.

I never knew the benefit and power of eating fruits and vegetables and how satisfying and light they make me feel. Today I workout 5 days a week, eat regularly health conscious meals, support my healthy life style with supplements like Herballife, and a great support team. As of July 3rd I am down 30 lbs. and counting. I feel amazing and happier than ever because I did this for me, not him or her but for me and I thank God he allowed me to live this long so that I could see myself accomplish this victory. Now that I am on this journey I asked others join it as well. I send out weekly weight loss progress reports; I post motivational quotes and invite others to join me each and every day. I want everyone to experience the joy I have found.”

Lajuana weight loss story

Weight Loss Story of the Day: Samantha lost 30 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Samantha lost 30 pounds.  This South Carolina Diva says that “Prayer, dedication, and hard work” are her secret weapons for success.  Read about how she lost the pounds:

Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. Prayer, dedication, and hard work are my secret weapons to success. After being out of college for 3 years, I realized it was finally time for me to lose that “freshman 15.” Coming from a family where high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol was common among woman, I wanted to be a positive example for my loved ones. February 2013 was when I took charge of my life and made myself a promise. I promise myself to never allow food, alcohol, and the stressors of life to consume me. Here it is, over 1 year later and I am 30 lbs lighter.

Cardio, clean eating, and strength training helped my along the way. Nutrition for me was definitely the hardest part of this journey. I love all things potato, so chips & fries were eliminated first. While grocery shopping, I only bought fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meat, and healthy dairy products. Meal prep and creating a shopping list helped me as well! If it was packaged or in a box and I didn’t recognize all of the ingredients I didn’t buy it. While dining out, I got my salad dressing on the side and half of my entree’ boxed to go. My starting weight in feb 2013 was 211 pounds and I currently weigh 181 pounds. I did cardio 5 days a week and recently started strength training 3-4 times a week. I have a new outlook on life. I pray my story change at least 1 person’s life. God Bless!  Instagram @1sam_ii_am

Samantha weight loss story

Audrey lost 80 pounds

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Weight Loss Inspiration: Audrey lost 80 pounds.  She wants you to know that it’s never too late and you are never to old to reach your health and wellness goals.  Here is what she shared with us about her transformation:

Audrey weight loss

“Hi! My name is Audrey. So far, I have lost 80 pounds. My before pictures don’t tell the whole story, as I put on an additional 30 pounds after they were taken! By then, I was too embarrassed to take pictures. I started my journey about 4 1/2 years ago. I’ve been overweight all my life as is the case with most of my family on both sides. I finally decided to change, but wasn’t really as committed as I should have been. I lost 50 pounds, and then put 40 back on. About a year ago, I FINALLY became serious.

I am now in a dress size that I haven’t worn since 1974 (my freshman year in college). I am still on my journey as I have another 40 pounds I need to lose. I started with a whopping 48.8% body fat! Yeah, I know…dangerous! I am now at 30% body fat. I cannot emphasize enough that this is truly a lifestyle change. I eat cleaner, drink about a gallon of water every day and I exercise regularly.  I stopped frying my meats. I do allow myself the occasional piece of fried chicken or fish, just not that often. I eat 6 times a day which helps my metabolism. I have 3 meals around 350-400 calories and 3 snacks around 200. Soda is a rarity as is white flour products. I learned to eat oatmeal and sweet potatoes without the butter and brown sugar, as I’ve been accustomed to.

I have a personal trainer now and I strength train as well as do cardio. I will be 59 years old in July.  I would say to anyone who is thinking it’s too late or you’re too old that I’m living proof that you aren’t. I’ve also had knee replacements 9 years ago. However, there’s always something you can do once your doctor clears you! I’m doing things now that I NEVER thought I would do! If I can, anyone can!”

Audrey weight loss

Weight Loss Story of the Day: Sabrina lost 45 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Sabrina lost 45 pounds.  She found a weight loss program that worked for her and worked it.  This proud mom also included her kids when working out for more motivation.  Read her story below.

Sabrina before and after

“I was slowly letting myself go. I was so wrapped up in everyone else I didn’t realize I had packed on so many pounds. My friend told me about a Beachbody program that uses martial arts to help shape your body. I was interested because I’m a ninja at heart. I bought Les Mills Combat and kind of half way did it. I wasn’t motivated. Then one night I put the DVD in and my boys joined me. I felt like I had to push harder because I wanted to set a good example. I didn’t really lose any weight during round one because I wasn’t dedicated to the program or the nutrition guide. I finished and was like I really want a t-shirt but I want to earn it. I started over and committed to the program and the nutrition guide. I added their nutritional shakes to my routine and worked out with the boys. I found myself pushing harder and really reshaping my body. Finally, I stepped on the scale and didn’t quickly get off.  That’s when I found out that in 120 days I’d gone from 215 pounds down to 170.

Sabrina weight lossWorking out with the kids really helped me step up my game but also finding a challenge group full of people doing the same workout as me helped me stay accountable. I recommend getting into a group of people with similar goals who are doing similar things on their journey and being an active member. It really helps you and others stay on track. I loved getting fighting fit so much I decided to pay it forward and become a coach myself.”

Weight Loss Story of the Day: Donita lost 46 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Donita lost 46 pounds in 10 months.  She notes that Zumba and cleaning up her eating habits were key to her weight loss victory.  Read all about how she lost the weight:

“Before I decided to start losing weight, I weighed 224 pounds. I honestly didn’t think there was a problem with my weight until I saw a picture of myself. I didn’t like who I saw and I realized that I need to make a change. Like most people who deal with weight issues, you want to make the change but you don’t know where to start. I started going to Zumba two days out of the week. I felt like the “biggest” person in the class but I continued to attend. Once I lost my first two pounds, I was excited! My Zumba instructor encouraged me along the way and before I knew it, 2 pounds became 14 pounds. I was determined to keep going.

During lunch at work, I decided to start walking a mile instead of eating a big lunch. I had to cut out pop, fast food, and junk food altogether. Many people doubted me when I first told them that I was trying to lose weight. I refused to listen to my critics and I stay focused on my goal. Today, I weigh 178 pounds with a weight loss of 46 pounds within 10 months. My first goal was to get my weight down to 200 pounds. I have exceeded that goal and now my next goal is to reach 160 pounds. I am not trying to be “skinny” but healthy. To anyone who is trying to lose weight, please stay focused. Don’t do it for anyone else but YOU! And lastly, encourage yourself. People may not be rooting for you, but be your own cheerleader! Regardless if you lose two pounds or two-hundred pounds you’re making progress!”

Donita before and after photos Donita weight loss story

Weight Loss Story of the Day: Tammia lost 115 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Tammia lost 115 pounds.  Dealing with being overweight since childhood, she knew it was time to change her life and start to truly feel healthy.  She started her journey at 450+ pounds and is committed to reach her goal weight.  Read her story below:

TammiaMay2

“I have always been overweight since childhood. I was tortured as a child with numerous medical tests and diets. I would lose a few pounds, then gain it back and then some. My last relationship caused me to become the biggest I’ve ever been. I was always talked to by friends about eating right and exercise.  Friends and family always stressed that they are worried for my health, and I was told you will do it when you are ready.  Well, 2 years and 3 months ago I didn’t like what I saw anymore.  My motivation was not being able to wear clothes that I wanted to wear. I was only able to wear whatever could fit me and basically couldn’t find anything to fit me. My clothing options were very limited.  I was also tired of being out of breath when walking only a few steps. I just didn’t feel good anymore. So, I decided it was time to do something about it.

I totally changed my eating habits. Started to eat healthy with 6 small meals a day.  I gave up soda, bread and fast food. Now I eat clean.  Water is all I allow myself to drink and I love it.  My workouts are a lot of cardio and some weight training. I work out 4-5 days a week now and I’m walking on the treadmill 2-3 miles a day.

 In a little over two years I have lost a total of 115 pounds. My starting weight was 450+ pounds. My weight now is 335 pounds. I hope to be down to 250 pounds by the end of this year. I just want to be healthier.  I can only speak for myself, but when you are ready to lose the weight you will know. It took me years to finally be sick of looking and feeling like I did.  I will never go back or look back. I am pushing forward.  I have not finished my journey, but I am feeling great and so much more active.”

 

Weight Loss Story of the Day: Jasmaine lost 51 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Jasmaine lost 51 pounds.  Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, she decided it was time to kick the soda habit, eat healthy and work out regularly.  Check out her story below: Jasmaine weight loss “A little over a year ago I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. I weighed 240lbs. At that time, I lived on Pepsi cola. I had to change my lifestyle and eating habits. My family made accommodations for me that year at Thanksgiving by making my Sweet Potato Pie with Splenda (gross). At that moment, I wanted to get off the medication that my doctor prescribed for me. I gave up drinking 2-liters of Pepsi a day and changed my eating habits some…LOL. Got my membership to Planet Fitness and worked out 2 hours a day for 3 months. Then I stopped and at the time I weighed 245 lbs.  That was this past Spring. Then I took ill and had to have an emergency hysterectomy. As I recovered I took eating healthy more serious. I began walking 5 days a week for 1.5 miles. This helped me out tremendously. Today I weigh 194 pounds. I haven’t weighed anything under 200 lbs in over 10 years. This weight loss journey took me 13 months including the breaks. If you are looking to be successful with weight loss and a healthier lifestyle, you have to stick with it and keep supportive people around you. Do it the healthy way. Make sure you go to the doctor on a regular basis and encourage yourself.” Instagram: @jasmaineshort

Weight Loss Story of the Day: Yolanda lost 76 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Yolanda lost 76 pounds.  This proud mom of 2 is working to break the chains of obesity in her family.  Read her story to find out how she did it.

“Hello, my name is Yolanda McGee. I wanted to submit my information to motivate others and let them know that if I can do it, they can too. My motivation was and still is that I am breaking the chain of obesity in my family! I was at a family reunion and looked around and decided from that moment…NO MORE! At first, my eating habits did not change but after I worked out, not too much was changing.  I knew I had to incorporate better eating habits. I started eating chicken breasts, ground turkey, fish, fruits, veggies and nuts. I will have an occasional treat but not all the time. My current workout routine is 3 days a week of weight training and 3 days a week of cardio. On the 7th day…I REST! My starting weight was 230 pounds! My current weight is 154 pounds! I has taken me about 7 years to lose the weight! I got married, had 2 babies and I’m still a work in progress. I have developed muscle, stamina and strength. My advise for others is to push and work even when you don’t feel like it; even when you are not seeing change; even if you are tired! You never know who you are inspiring!  All of this would not be possible if the Lord had not given me the strength!”

Instagram: @yomcgee

Yolanda weight loss

 

Ace lost 107 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Ace lost 107 pounds with weight loss surgery.  She was having difficulty breathing and suffering from knee pain that hindered her ability to exercise.  At 234 pounds and 5’3″, she decided to opt for gastric sleeve bariatric surgery.  Read her story below to find out more about her journey.

Ace weight loss surgery“My name is Ace. A year and a half ago I made a decision that cheanged my life. I decided to have bariatric weight loss surgery. I was 34 years old and weighed 234 lbs at 5 foot, 3 inches tall. I worked in health care so I was always on my feet. I had a knee problems that led me to a orthopedic doctor who said that I needed to loose weight to relieve some of the pressure off my knee. However, I couldn’t exercise due to the pain. A good friend of mine mentioned bariatric surgery. She had it done a few years prior. The rest is history!

I went from getting short of breath climbing a flight of stairs, constantly tired, constantly eating fast food, sweets and drinking pop to working out 6 days a week! No longer drinking pop or juice! No longer eating pork or red meat, or fast food or sweets! I have an amazing amout of energy. I am active. I feel wonderful. I love the way clothes fit. I went from a size 22 at 234 pounds with a BMI of 41.4 to a size 4 at 127 pounds with a BMI of 22.5. Finally I LOVE ME.”

What was your motivation?
“I was tired of the knee pain and being short of breath all the time.”

How did you change your eating habits?
“I went from snacking all the time on unhealthy things to eating 5 small healthy meals a day that were high in protein.”

What did your workout routines look like?
“Mon – Fri, In the am I do crunches, squats and a few weights. After dinner I walk/run on my treadmill and do additional crunches, squats and weights.”

What was your starting weight and your current weight?
“Starting weight prior to surgery was 234lbs. My heaviest was 256lbs. I currently weigh 127lbs.”
How long did your transformation take?
“I had surgery December 2012. It’s been a year and a half.”

What advice to you have for others who want to lose weight?
“You can do it if you want to. You have to really want it. Make small goals. Take it day by day and appreciate every bit of progress that you make! Nothing tastes as good as healthy feels!!”

Ace weight loss story