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292 lbs Gone: Vote for Veronica in the BeachBody Challenge

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Update: We got an awesome update from BWLW Sista Veronica S. about her weight loss journey:

“Hi! I’m excited to announce that I’m a finalist in the Beachbody Challenge. As a finalist I have the chance to win $100,000! I’ve lost more weight since my story was first published by BWLW and have lost in total now 292 lbs. I would be honored, thrilled and grateful beyond words if you would vote for me in the challenge.This is the most amazing opportunity of my life!”

Let’s support our sista!  Click here to Vote for her today.

Want to know how she did it?  Read her weight loss story.

Veronica beachbody challenge
Updated photo: Down 292 pounds

 

Veronica lost 274 pounds
Veronica lost 274 pounds

Danielle lost 109 pounds

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Featured Story of the Day: Danielle lost 109 pounds.  She had weight loss surgery and believed that it would be an easy way to lose weight.  After losing weight for a few months her weight loss stalled and she found out an important truth about weight loss post-surgery.  Read her story and photos below to find out how she lost the weight:

Danielle weight loss surgery

Here’s my story…My orthopedic surgeon told me to start lifting weights and eating healthy. Unfortunately (I was still suffering from a rotator cuff tear) and osteochondral defect (cysts) in my ankle. It was suggested that I get gastric bypass surgery. I thought either, I wouldn’t be approved for it or if I got it that it would be the easy way out (like most people think)…far from true! I had ankle surgery first then 2 weeks later I had gastric bypass.  Most people are up and walking around in days, but I couldn’t walk because of the ankle surgery.

Initially I lost 30 lbs in 2 1/2 months, but then I plateaued and couldn’t figure out why. My gastroenterologist told me that the first few months the weight comes off because you are eating healthy (which I did), BUT….after that it’s all you. WHAT? I didn’t sign on for that! Again, I thought the weight would just fall off and it didn’t! What they also don’t tell you is that eventually you’ll start getting hunger pains and start eating more…WTF!! Of course, because you’re eating more, YOU START TO GAIN WEIGHT BACK! (Smdh again)

I thought this would be easy. My husband told me one day that I looked like I was gaining weight again.. I went back to the doctor and sure enough I gained weight! Long story short (lol) I was then told because I wasn’t active (my weight wasn’t going anywhere).  What part of ankle surgery did they not understand?? I was then told I had to workout out.  Nooooooo!  So, I joined a gym. I would hide behind the machines and BS in the gym because of my ankle. I was very limited with regard to what I could do, no treadmill, elliptical, etc. That’s when I was introduced to weight lifting…(which I was against because “I didn’t want to look like a man”).  The first day was hell! I wanted to quit! My husband (my trainer) told me not to give up and that he knew I could do it! Although I believed him, I still had no faith in myself, but I knew I wanted this weight off!

In 3 months I lost a total of 33 lbs…I wanted to quit at that point, but I didn’t! My therapist told me to go to the gym 3-5 days per week. Prior to this I was only going 1 or 2 days for 30 minutes. I switched up and started going 5 days a week for 1 hour and 15 minutes on top of physical therapy.  Eating wise, I was already eating healthy, but not eating enough.  I increased my protein to 65 grams per day.  I ate grilled boneless skinless chicken breast, broccoli, brown rice, and baked sweet potatoes.  This is when the weight started coming off. The first month of weight training I lost 17 lbs! The second month I lost 19 lbs! This is when I realized, lifting weights was for me and bariatric surgery was not the answer to losing weight, but definitely a tool to help someone start their journey.

To lose weight you have to commit yourself to being very active and eating healthy ALL the time! I gave up a lot but I gained so much more! I now have my life back!  I’m 109 pounds down as of 5/15/2014! My Gastro surgeon told me I was one of his most successful patients because of my commitment and dedication.  At my last visit with him in December,  was at 94lbs lost in 7 months.  He told me that this was a result of working out (hard) and continuing to eat right.  I don’t eat cheat meals! My motivation is not wanting to die!! Plain and simple! My husband never lost faith in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself! I started my own brand Move Your Azz, which is simple. Move in the kitchen, move up the steps, move your body in some type of exercise, dance, etc. It’s just being active.

facebook.com/moveyourazz

Danielle before and after

Jana lost 30 pounds

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Let’s show some love to Jana.  She lost 30 pounds by changing her eating habits and exercising.  Read about her weight loss journey and check out her before and after photos.Jana weight loss story

I’m 30 years old.  I’m also the mother of 5 year old lil boy. This year I decided that I wasn’t going to keep the same lifestyle. I called few friends to get recipes, advice on diets and ways to change my life.  I changed the way I ate.  I also started doing cardio and a lot of exercise. I was 185 lbs when I started on March 5 2014 (photo in the leopard dress).  On April 25 2014 I reached 155 lbs (after photo in the black top).  I’ve still got more pounds to lose and is true that it’s a lot work.

I got advice from a friend who told me to stop eating white rice, pasta, bread and junk food. He also told me to stop drinking things like beer and cocktails.  Eating wise, I got back to eating salads, vegetables and I now drink green juice (made of vegetables and herbs) in the morning. For fitness, I’m doing cardio, step class and I’m going to start kickboxing next week.  I also love dancing Samba to spanish music because it causes you to really move you body, like Zumba. I do my workouts at home because I’m a single mother, so I don’t have time to go to the gym. My son loves it every time I’m working out on the living room.

Sometimes you just want to give up when you have cravings for food.  However, I believe that when you look in the mirror, when everybody starts too look at you and when they want to do the same you’ve done…it’s amazing. I feel amazing and I don’t want to ever get back to the way I was before. Ladies don’t give up. Get it together and do it for you and for your health.”

Instagram: @jana_brazuca

Jana before and after

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.”