Black Weight Loss Success

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how I lost weight

Helen lost 83 pounds

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Featured Weight Loss Success Story: Helen lost 83 pounds.  This proud mom of 4 took a natural approach to weight loss and embraced plant-based eating to lose the pounds.  Read more about her journey below:

Helen before and after

“I’m a 40 year old single mother of 4 beautiful, spoiled (sometimes get on my nerves) children. Their ages are 2, 7, 9 and 13 years of age. Over the years, I have lost weight and gained weight 4 times! This time it is different because I did it the healthy, natural way. No pills, no powders, no replacing meals, no soup diets, no injections etc. Nope! I got up off my butt and started to workout. I was Sweating EVERYDAY. I also changed my lifestyle and became vegetarian. I started eating plant-based foods and incorporated superfoods in my daily diet. I started reading and educating myself on foods and healthy habits. I healed myself from dissapointments and stress. I removed all the negative people in my life and started living for me! I track my daily prpgress on Instagram to hold myself accountable. I’m healthy and happy now! I’ve lost a total of 83 lbs in 2 years! There’s no stopping. I’m a work in progress. Be Blessed!”

Check her out on Instagram: @h2naturalbeauty

Helen weight loss story

 

Robin lost 34 pounds

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robinUpdate Feb 2017: It’s 3 years later and Robin is still on a mission. Check out her update.

Still at it!! I gained 40 pounds in my 30’s due to an unhappy marriage, loss of loved ones and a sedentary lifestyle. I lost 35 pounds and gained 10 pounds back. I am in the process of TAKING IT OFF by running 3-4 times a week, juicing and watching my portion sizes! Also, I’m drinking 8 glasses of water and limiting carbs after 6 pm. 40’s are FABULOUS!

robin weight loss

2014: Weight Loss Story of the Day: Robin lost 34 pounds.  This proud mom of 3 faced weight gain after the loss of the loved one from turning to food for comfort.  She was able to embrace healthy eating and running to lose the pounds.  Read her story:

RobinApr14

“I put on weight after losing my sister suddenly in July 2011. I was working out but was eating way too many carbs and processed foods for comfort. The irony is that as I was ‘comforting” myself, I was becoming more and more uncomfortable physically. I made small changes to my diet, ate smaller portions and increased my physical activity. I discovered juicing–and it has made the difference. I substitute just one meal a day for green juice–usually cucumber, apple, lemon, spinach and ginger. Before, I never ate fruits and vegetables and my body was suffering.

I decided to run 12 5K’s in the year 2012. I dedicated this challenge to my sister’s memory. I completed all 12 races and lost 30 pounds in that 12 month period. I have fallen in love with running. It helps me clear my mind and get in touch with myself daily. I’m running 3-4 days a week. I am also working on increasing my strength training, because at 44 years young I know how important it is for bone density and overall health. I love sweets, especially cupcakes. I don’t deny myself any food–but everything is consumed in moderation.

I started at 178 pounds and I currently weigh 144 pounds. It took a year of consistency. I have 3 kids, ages 16, 13 and 4. I want to be active and energetic with them for decades to come. I am headed in the right direction!”

Tiffany lost 75 pounds

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Tiffany lost 75 pounds.  Like any other moms, she still had a lot of baby weight to lose years after giving birth to her son.  She has decided to take charge of her health and fitness and lose the pounds.  Read her story:

TiffanyApr14

“I love this page ! It’s so inspiring to see women taking control of their health and fitness. The picture on the left is of me December 2013- two years after giving birth to my son. Going in to deliver him, I was 296 lbs! Two years later, I had only gotten down to 267 pounds (the pic on the left) and that weight loss was because I breastfed the first 9 months. I began actively taking charge of my weight on January 1, 2014 and I weighed in at 252 pounds. I am now 221 lbs, down a total of 75 pounds since November 2011, and a total of 31 pounds since starting my weight loss journey on January 1, 2014! My plan is to get down to 200 solid and fit pounds by June 2014 and this group of women motivate me to make it happen.

I changed my eating habits by taking in 1200 calories a day, eating 5-6 CLEAN meals a day, and limiting my carb intake. I drink a little over one gallon of water a day and I ONLY drink water ! When I started my journey on January 1, 2014, I only worked out from home using a cardio trampoline, 5 lb dumbbells, a Walking For Weight Loss DVD, and body challenges that I would see posted on the internet and Facebook. I joined the gym March 17, 2014 and now I incorporate the treadmill and stationary bike for interval training and floor machines for abs, arms and legs. Whether at home or the gym, I workout for a minimum of 40 minutes each session, 5-7 days a week, and I NEVER miss a Monday.”

LaLa lost 72 pounds

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Today’s Weight Loss Story: LaLa lost 72 pounds.  She was inspired to get health by her mother’s battle with chronic illness and now she hopes her story motivates others to get healthy.  Here is what she told us about how she lost the weight:

before and after weight loss

“My name is Lala and I’m 42 years old. I have always been a thick girl. Seven years ago my mother passed away from diabetes and high blood pressure. I watched her lose her battle and because of the diabetes she lost her eyesight, which I know made it even harder to try to get healthy and lose the weight. I decided that this would not be me. I was already on high blood pressure medicine. I could feel myself getting tired quicker and even my breathing had started to change. I decided no more. I had a gym membership for years. I would start and stop going more times then I care to mention. So, instead of starting in the gym, I started n the park by counting my steps not laps. My goal was to walk at least 10000 steps. It took be about a hour and a half, but I stuck with it and family and friends started to noticed a change. I lost my first 25 pound at the park, walking faithfully every night. It was just me, my iPod and God.

I began to prepare my own meals, sticking to baked chicken and fish. I made lots of homemade salads but still didn’t give up my love for cheese. I just enjoyed my 2% fat slice of swiss in my egg whites in the morning for breakfast. When I got down to 270 pounds, I hit the gym at least 5 days out of the week. Sometimes I would even take a 6 am spin class, do sum weights and go back for the 8am spin class. I am so thankful to God for giving me the strength and courage to work on myself and get healthy. I’m still working out at least five days a week my goal is to get down to 200 pounds. I’m pretty confident that is a good size for my frame.

I hope that my story motivates someone else to get out there and take their body back! You can do it! I started off at 309 pounds and I’m currently 237.1 pounds. I began my weight loss journey in August of 2012 and I’m still on my journey.  I’m not setting any specific time frame to lose the weight.  I’m just thankful to be striving for the mark!!”

Siobhan lost 35 pounds

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Featured Weight Loss Story: Siobhan lost 35 pounds.  After losing a parent to Lupus, she was inspired to get her health back in order in their honor.  With practical changes to her eating and exercise, she was able to be consistent and see change.  Here is what she shared with us about what she did:

Siobhan weight loss story

“I’m Siobhan and I wanted to share my weight loss story. I started out at 210 lbs and I am currently at 175 lbs, for a total 35 lbs lost so far. My ultimate goal is to get to around 150 pounds. My father recently passed away due to complications from Lupus, so I really wanted to get my health back on track in honor of him. I know he would be so proud. I took baby steps and started making gradual changes such as slowly drinking more water and taking the stairs instead of the elevator. I think the most significant change was decreasing my portion sizes. I now eat smaller portions throughout the day.  Also, planning my meals and snacks in advance has been key to my success. I’ve taken up running and Bikram yoga has been a huge factor in my mental and physical wellbeing.

The best advice I would like to share is that being consistent is so important. Even when the numbers on the scale aren’t budging, KEEP GOING!! You WILL eventually see your body transform. Also, even when you “slip up” don’t fall totally off the wagon. Just decide that you will get right back on track with your next meal or snack and know that it’s ok to indulge guilt-free every now and then so you don’t completely give up. Good luck to everyone on their journey. It’s challenging, but so worth it! It’s amazing how much younger I believe I look.”

Leslie lost 71 pounds

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Update 8/2014: Leslie wrote in this month to let us know that she’s lost a total of 116.2 pounds.  Check out what she shared with us back in April about her weight loss journey.

Leslie weight loss success story

Weight Loss Story of the Day: Leslie lost 71 pounds.  She changed her eating habits and committed to regular exercise to transform her midsection and deal with serious health issues.  Check out what she shared with us about her weight loss journey:

Leslie weight loss

Hi, I’m Leslie it took me 2 1/2 years to loose 71 pounds. I take a nutrition supplement, eat clean and work out everyday for 30 mins! My Motivation to lose weight was being told I was diabetic! I was scared.  The doctor also told me I was overweight.

I changed by eating habits by doing a nutrition program which is not easy at all but well worth it.  I simply tried to stay away from bad carbs, but I ate plenty of vegetables and fruit! I worked to not eat processed foods and made sure that I was eating often, like every two hours. Sometimes I supplement meals with a nutritional shake. Now watching what I eat comes naturally!  For exercise, I worked out daily for 30 minutes a day mostly doing Zumba or walking! 

My Starting weight was 286 pounds I am now 214.8 pounds.  My transformation took 2 1/2 years. 

My advice if any is never give up and don’t get wrapped up in the scale.  All things are possible. I gave up 5 times but in still in there and still working toward my goals! Let’s go Black Women! Let’s lose weight!

Instagram: @royal_priesthoodp31

Leslie before and after

 

Kimberly lost 37 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Kimberly lost 37 pounds.  He story shows that sometimes doing the emotional work of dealing with your issues and problems in your life is just as important as diet and exercise.  Here is what she shared with us:

Kimberly before and after

I was always thin from childhood all the way up to my teen years, but after having a child in my teens I began to pick up weight, almost 100 pounds. After that I continued to pack on the pounds. I tried a number of things to lose weight; seeing countless diet doctors, trying diet fads, joining weight loss centers, and numerous diet pills. It was not until 2011, after losing my job, that I really came to the realization that I was huge and that weight was threatening my life. I read an article that stated being overweight can cause cancer cells and other diseases to activate. I also found out that I was depressed and had not let go of some personal issues dealing with family and relationships. After dealing with many of my issues I came to a personal realization that if I don’t do something now life is going to pass me by.

I decided to start my weight loss journey in December 2012 and I have had some pitfalls along the way but I keep getting back up with my gloves on ready to fight. My heaviest was 315 pounds and now I am 278 pounds and still going. I accomplished this with exercise and dedication. I am now changing my eating habits to work harder at achieving my short term goal of 23 more pounds. I’m so excited.  I also entered a Bikini challenge at a local gym in January, that challenges me to do my best. Ladies remember you can do it!

Kimberly weight loss

 

Michelle lost 77 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Michelle lost 77 pounds.  She was dealing with depression and some serious medical concerns.  By letting go of processed foods, going Paleo and embracing exercise that worked for her, she was able to change her life.  Find out more about how she did it:

Michelle weight loss story

What was your motivation? 
“My motivation was being around long enough to experience my children grow old. I was battling depression and didn’t even realize it. I was shocked to find out I had weighed over 200 lbs (I’m just 5’3″). I had high cholesterol and pre-stages of high blood pressure. I was prescribed meds to alter my thoughts. I was definitely in need of a change and fast.”

How did you change your eating habits?
“I had begin using diets and pills for I wanted that quick fix. I started by decreasing my portions of food. However I was just tricking my body and my weight ballooned up and down. Tired and frustrated I got help from a friend who was a nutritionist. He explained to me the Paleo way of eating. I cut out refined, process foods, dairy, beans, grains, saturated fats, sugar, non grass feed meats and I went all organic. I’m also taking herbs from Dr. Sebi which helps cleanse my body inside and out. I hike on weekends and I walk about 10,000 steps daily. I log in my food intake daily and I keep my count under 1300 calories per day. I drink lots of water and I brought a juicer and have been juicing for 2 1/2 months now.”

“My starting weight was near 280 pounds and I’m now weighing 203 pounds. My transformation has been going for a year now. I went to an organic lifestyle as of December 30, 2013, which helped me loose 40 lbs. I tell others that I am not on a diet. I am making a life change. I’m so happy with my results and I am no longer on any meds what so ever. I’m active and my mind is clear. Processed foods are killing us. I’m so glad I have removed these items from my life.”

Christi lost 35 pounds in 2 months

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Update Jan 2016: Christi sent in an update to let us know that she’s still going strong and has lost 44 more pounds for a total of 79 pounds gone, down from 237 pounds.

Hello! I was featured back in 2014 after losing a significant amount of weight in just a 2 month time span. I wanted to update you guys and let you know that I maintained my weight up until 2 months ago. That’s when I joined an outdoor fitness group and broke thru my plateau by losing an additional 8 pounds! I have also started toning. I am officially 13lbs away from my DREAM weight! The main thing I’ve learned through this journey is that no matter how you slice it, weight loss comes down to this simple formula: Eat Less and Exercise More! -Christi

Starting weight: 237 pounds
Current weight: 158 pounds
Goal weight: 145 pounds

Christi’s Instagram: @0hS0Pretty.

christi before and after

Running and cutting back on bread helped Christi J to lose 35 pounds in 2 months.  Read her story:

ChristiApr

I’m Christi! My success story is rather Unique!! To be honest ladies, I just got FED UP. I needed a change which motivated me to lose 35 lbs in 2 MONTHS! My starting weight was 200lbs and my current (which I have maintained) is 165lbs. I love outdoor running. That’s literally the only exercise I did. I plugged in my headphones and jammed to Chris Brown the entire 2 months. So, I guess I have him to thank! (JK), but it amazed me how the weight just fell off.  I started to naturally shrink my stomach within a week of getting started. It literally got to the point where I prepared a meal for myself, and would feel totally full halfway through it.

My diet remained the same, however, my daily food intake was a lot less than usual. Bread was the only food I cut back on. I think Bread ultimately made the difference. Instead of regular bacon, I ate turkey bacon. Instead of beef, I ate chicken breast. Amazingly, it all tasted delicious. I cut out all soda-pop and juice, I drank only water (sometimes with different flavors of crystal light) and low-fat skim milk. I never wanted to feel like I was punishing myself by being deprived of certain foods, so every Friday I would treat myself to pizza(To keep myself sane. lol). The very next day I got right back on it. Pretty soon, I was eating less, filling more full and naturally shrinking my stomach. On Friday (my pizza night), I found myself barely being able to eat 2 slices. I also made sure I continued running at least 4 times a week.

My advice for quick, yet HEALTHY weight loss would be to naturally “shrink” your stomach! Good Luck on your journeys!!

Latria lost 76 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Latria lost 76 pounds with the Lap-Band® weight loss surgery.  Facing chronic health issues and years of being overweight, she decided to make a major change in her life.  She feels that surgery was the best option for her.  Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey:

Latria weight loss surgery

“Hello, My name is Latria. I am 30 years old and I would like to share my weight lost journey with you. I’ve always been overweight. I use to tell everyone that I was born fat and I will die fat. For the longest time, I weighed 255 pounds and I learned to live it with and accept it. That was until August of last year, when I noticed my size 20 clothes were getting tight. So, I dusted off my Wii Fit and weighed myself. 267 pounds is what I weighed! I was shocked. This couldn’t be right because I always weighed 255 pounds.

After having a pitty party I decided to do something about it. The next day I was driving into work and I heard the commercial about weight lost surgery. I always consider having the Lap-Band® but I never followed thru. That night I watched the online seminar and decided I wanted to have the surgery.  However I wanted to do one last effort to try lose weight on my own. I told myself I gave my 20’s to obesity and I refuse to give my 30’s to obesity. That was motivation right there! I started working out on my Wii Fit for 30 minutes a day and watching what I eat.  However, when I went to my primary doctor office, I still had high blood pressure and was still borderline for diabetes. I lost 15 pounds and still had health problems but I still continued my healthy lifestyle regiment.

On May 1st 2013, I had the Lap-Band® surgery. This was the best decision I had ever made. I started my journey weighing 267 lbs as of today I weigh 191 lbs! I am so close to my high school weight! Now days I track my meals on My Fitness Pal and I workout 5 days a week.  On 2 of those days I run for about 45 minutes. My advice to anyone who is trying to lose weight is that this is your journey. Don’t try to compare your journey to someone else’s remember this is your journey not theirs.”