Helena lost 147 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Helena lost 147 pounds. As a young child, she was battling with high blood pressure, prediabetes, and bullies. By the time she reached 22 years old, she began to understand how her lifestyle and the foods she ate impacted her health. She shared with us about her two-year transformation.

What was your motivation?
I have been overweight since I was in second grade. By the time I was 11 years old, I already weighed 200 pounds. I had high blood pressure and was prediabetic. I was also being bullied by a relative at home, and at school, I was bullied some more. It was a rough road for me. 

Food became my escape, as the numbers continued to climb well into adulthood with me entering the 300’s. And by 22 years old, I tipped the scale at 315 pounds. I had to make a change.

What motivated me to lose weight was learning about the different kinds of diseases that harm the body. I knew that me weighing 315 lbs at only 22 was taking me on a shortcut to death. I DID NOT want that. Also, I couldn’t even climb two flights of stairs. 

So, I got a dog. Yes, a dog! It forced me to take walks, and that was how I began this journey.

How did you change your eating habits?
I changed my eating habits by studying what’s recommended for a balanced diet. A McChicken and medium fry were not on that list. So, instead of stopping by Mickey Ds, I started stopping at the grocery store’s produce section instead. I’m still human. To this day, it can be a struggle, but I make sure not to fall to far off the wagon. I remain focused on my goal.

Tell us about your workout routine.
In the beginning, I started walking. Then, I NERVOUSLY joined a gym. I was TERRIFIED, but I went anyway. I started working out there two days a week. Then, I increased to 3 days a week. Now, I work out five days a week!

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 315 pounds. My current weight is 168 pounds.

What is your height?
My height is 5’6″.

When did you start your journey?
I started this journey in 2012 but was very inconsistent. (I started over a MILLION times.) It wasn’t until two years ago that I re-started, and I haven’t stopped since. I heard the phrase “fitness toddler.” I think that’s pretty accurate for me, lol.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
I have not had any surgery.

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
My advice for women who want to lose weight: DON’T GIVE UP! Ask yourself, “What will happen if I don’t?”

Instagram: @deesweigh_tofit