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Inspirational Weight Loss: Roxanne lost 111 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Roxanne lost 111 pounds in 11 months.  She is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse that is deeply connected to her weight gain.  She was able to not just lose weight but do the emotional and spiritual work that she needed to do to reclaim her self worth.  Read her inspirational story and check out her before and after photos below:

roxanne weight loss story

“Starting at the age of seven I was sexually abused by my step father. As I looked at childhood pictures that’s when I noticed that the weight began to pile on. You see, whenever these horrific acts would take place, my step father would give me food as a ‘reward’ and for any young child cakes, fast food and snacks are some of the best rewards to have. I had developed a technique in my mind that would allow me to leave my physical body and to think on all the ‘junk’ I was going to purchase and or receive once the act was over. This is where my relationship towards food began. I made food my comfort and over years I gained more and more weight.

On May 25, 2013 I started my weight loss journey at 388 pounds. I was having a daily devotion time and God began to speak to me.  I made the decision to journal my weight loss on Facebook (the good, the bad and the ugly) because it held me accountable for my outcome and I knew that others were watching and I refused to let them down. I began walking 1 mile, five to six times a week. I started drinking protein shakes and limited my food intake by counting calories. I began eating six small meals a day every three hours to avoid being hungry. I gave up red meat, fast food, fried foods, and drank only water. I would plan my meals in advance and I always kept healthy snacks in my car and purse for ’emergencies’. I also drank lots and lots of water.Eventually, I added water aerobics, Zumba, kickboxing, weight lifting and jogging to my routine and I continued working out at least six times per week.  Two things that really worked for me was making exercise a hobby as opposed to making it a task and reminding myself that this is a lifestyle change, not a diet. Diets are temporary but a lifestyle change is forever.

In addition to me losing physical weight, I began a healing process which started from the inside out. I had to learn how to put myself first and I had to learn how to forgive myself and those that hurt me. My journey and my transformation was more spiritual than anything else. There was a ‘deconstruction’ process that had to take place before I could ‘reconstruct’ my thinking process. I was always told how pretty I was so I had good self-esteem but NO self-worth which onset SO MANY other issues in my life. My life was not an easy life by far but I am living proof that with faith, determination, consistency and hard work- ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.

As of today I have lost 111 pounds (in 11 months) and gained my life back!!!! I have learned to love ME-flaws and all.  I’ve learned to take hold of the inner-strength that already existed on the inside of me.  You see, when your mind is in bondage, it prevents you from doing even the simplest tasks. This has been eleven months of the most sweat, tears, transparency, commitment, dedication, perseverance and consistency that I EVER endured in my life!! God holds my hand and I have allowed Him to lead the way after 37 years!!!!! God changed me. He changed my way of thinking. Made me believe in myself. He gave me hope and I finally believed in myself enough to recognize where my pain originated from and to know that I, Roxanne, was worth finally living my best life. I was successful only because I chose to give God all my pain, hurt, despair & weariness.  God gave me beauty for my ashes. Peace for my depression and hope for my pain. I had to be a role model for my three beautiful children so they could understand the power of believing in yourself. My journey isn’t solely about weight loss.That’s just the manifestation of it. It is about literally being healed from the inside out and allowing God the opportunity to do something great and different ONLY for His glory. I am living proof that God has the power to change your life COMPLETELY if you allow Him to do so. I’m not done yet (39 more pounds to go) but I can see the light & it’s shining brighter than I could have ever imagine. If I can do it YOU CAN TOO!!! Thanks for allowing me to share.
Love, Roxanne”

Roxanne before and after

Weight Loss Transformation: Anyce lost 176 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: This is the transformation story of a woman who at 400+ pounds didn’t know she was pregnant for almost 9 months!  Anyce lost 176 pounds after years and years of struggling with obesity.  She made a commitment to be there for her daughter and change her health for good. Read her amazing story and check out her before and after photos below.  AMAZING!

anyce lost 176 pounds

“Hello, My name is Anyce and I’ve struggled with being obese all my life. Since I can remember, I’ve always been taller and heavier than my classmates and friends. Although I never let it bother me to the point I hated myself, I didn’t participate in the simple things young girls did because of my size. For example, the one thing I always wanted to do was shop with my friends in the mall.  I always had to go separately because “normal” stores didn’t carry my size. Things became worst when I was turned down for a volleyball team in 9th grade, that shattered my world and the pounds started coming.  I didn’t want to play any other sport. As the years passed I gained over 150lbs! Instead of me doing something about it I simply embraced my extra curves and loved me no matter what.

I was an emotional eater and a closet eater. I ate my emotions and didn’t tell people how I felt. I ate the pain away and kept a smile on my face to hide the pain. At some of my lowest times I can remember buying a bucket of chicken from KFC, a 7 piece and almost finishing the whole thing, then going home saying I didn’t eat. Late night runs to Burger King with my brother and cousin who were physically fit both played sports didn’t help. I also loved onion garlic potato chips and could eat a bag a day. So, it’s safe to say nutrition was the last thing on my mind.

In February of 2008 I tried to have the lap band surgery because I just wanted to be “normal” for once but it was unsuccessful because I had an enlarged liver (1st stages to developing NASH) due to eating unhealthy. I began to lose a lot of blood so my surgeon decided to abort and no surgery for me but I wear the scars of that depressing day. Depression started and I became severely obese. By this time, I was about 380 pounds and still NOT ashamed of who I was (or so I thought). I even did Plus Size modeling at my heaviest weight! Certain pictures from different angles I didn’t like because I was so heavy (but now when I look back, I actually like many angles of me).

It wasn’t until 2012 that my life changed and everyday things became a struggle. I noticed I had NO energy, I was always tired but it was more than normal. My menstrual cycle never came on time. I would be happy it didn’t come because when it did I would be so moody and crave sweets all day, I wouldn’t want to be near myself. I would attempt to workout with my good friend but find any excuse not to and go back to bed. October 24th of that year I found out I was pregnant, BUT I was due any day give or take.  No more than 4 WEEKS notice. I gave birth to what I call my angel on earth, a baby girl on November 8th, 2012. Absolutely no birth defects and completely healthy, THANK GOD! That’s when I could confidently say GOD IS REAL! My life completely changed, I was NOW 100% responsible for another human being that could not fend for themselves and they depended on ME.

So January 2013, I sought out professional help from my doctor and he referred me to a nutritionist and I saw her monthly. We tackled my eating.  On May 1, 2014, I weighed in at 421 pounds, my ultimate heaviest. I then went on a supervised drastic diet. I only ate the following food groups for three months; protein, fiber and vegetables! That’s right no fruits or carbohydrates. I also used Body by Vi to help with my weight loss. We wanted drastic results fast as my daughter was getting older and who would be able to run after her and keep her safe if I remained the same tired self?!  I did it cold turkey (well I prepared myself mentally) by any means nessasary!!! I can say that I lost 97 lbs in 90 days.

Since then I’ve learned how to deal with emotions, for the most part I don’t eat my emotions. I’ve learned about nutrition and the purpose off all food groups. We need them all in moderation. I workout about 5 days a week.  My workouts consists of calisthenics training, weights and cardio. I’ve learned you need ALL 3 to be successful with transforming. I’ve become more active with friends and I currently can do ANYTHING with my now 1 1/2 year old. The best feeling in the world. I’m currently 176 lbs down and counting!”

Contact me on Facebook: Anyce NyCee Banks & Instagram: @AnyceB

weight loss story mom

Tonya lost 74 pounds

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Let’s show some love to Tonya.  She lost 74 pounds.  After dealing with the effects of being overweight since her teens, she found a weight loss program that works and committed herself to exercise.  Check out what she shared with us about her weight loss journey:

Tonya weight loss plan

“Hi, My name is Tonya Person and I would just like to share my story and hopefully it will inspire someone else. All my life, as a teen and an adult, I’ve been overweight. I have 2 daughters (9 and 5 years old) and they have been my motivation. I want to be here to raise my children and to be able to do physical activities with them. My journey to a healthier life started in February of 2011. I started with simple things, like cutting back on soft drinks and sweet and sugary foods. I started eliminating “junk” foods and cutting back on fried foods and starches.

I incorporated walking at least 30 minutes per day, gradually increasing my time. Then I started doing exercise videos at home and eventually I got a gym membership.  I also use exercise DVDs or workouts from Youtube, like the Leslie Sansone’s walking series. When I go to the YMCA, I use the elliptical and treadmill as well as the other gym equipment. I also do low impact aerobics at home as well. I eat lots of fruit and veggies and I try to limit my white starches and carbs. I substitute my white rice for brown rice and eat wheat bread whenever I eat bread. I use olive oil to prepare my foods when I need oil. I try to limit the amount of beef and pork that I eat so mostly I eat chicken, fish or shrimp . If I eat pasta I like to have the whole wheat pasta. When I eat out, I order water instead of soft drinks or sugary drinks. Also, when I eat out, if I know where I’m going I try to view the menus online ahead of time to see what the healthy selections are. That way when I get there I already have in mind what I will eat. I eat a lot of salads, fruits and veggies in the spring and summertime

I fell off the wagon several times but never turned completely away from my journey. I started using Herbalife products on and on in 2012 but was never consistent with it until April of 2013. I started consuming 2 healthy meal replacement shakes per day, one sensible colorful meal, and healthy snacks in between. I’m on Instagram and I try to post my meals on there as a means of accountability.

So, far since I started my journey I’ve lost so far I’ve released 74 pounds and I’ve dropped 6 dress sizes and 2 shoes sizes. Each day I try to incorporate some personal development time for myself to stay encourage. My advice for others is to start making small changes, set realistic goals for yourself, never quit, find your WHY. If you get off track, don’t stay there. Get back up and keep trying. Since started my journey, I feel better and have more energy than I have since I was in high school. My journey is far from over this is really just the beginning and I’m determined to see it all the way through!”

Tonya 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

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

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: 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

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