Black Weight Loss Success

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Shelby lost 100 pounds

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Today’s featured weight loss before and after:  My Sigma Gamma Rho soror Shelby lost 100 pounds with a low carb lifestyle and consistent exercise.  Here is what she shared with us:

Ladies, I just wanted to take a moment to tell you all how inspiring you all are to me and to share my story! Over the years, I gained and lost A LOT of weight but, on 12/27/2002, I decided to try my hand at a low carb lifestyle and CONSISTENT exercise.  Thank God, those were the changes that allowed me to change FOR GOOD! I’ve been able to keep the excess weight off (pic on the left was taken in the summer of ’02 and the one on the right was at a sorority (ΣΓΡ) conference in April of this year) through continued commitment to my low carb lifestyle and MOVING MY BODY. Many of us are proof that we can do this for life, not just as a “quick fix” or for a special occasion.  I thank you all for being next to me on this journey!!

I lost 100 lbs (120 total but gained 20 after having thyroid surgery…boooo!) and my motivation was to improve my health and no longer feel like a prisoner in my body! High blood pressure, insulin resistance/pre-diabetes and asthma were controlling my life and I felt like someone much older than my actual age! For exercise, I’ve done everything from aerobics classes to Zumba to every DVD program you can imagine. At the moment, I’ll be wrapping up my first round of Insanity next week and I plan to start Les Mills Combat on June 2nd!!

Shelby weight loss before and after

Beverly lost 84 pounds

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Check out this weight loss success story: Beverly lost 84 pounds with the Shred program by Dr. Ian Smith, Zumba classes and is no longer pre-diabetic.  Here is what she shared with us:

For the past 30 years, I have always been considered obese. Last summer I went to the doctor for my annual checkup and my numbers were high enough that I realized I was killing myself. My weight had ballooned to 294 pounds, my blood pressure was high, my cholesterol was at 264 and I was pre-diabetic. I was so miserable and knew at 54 years of age I was headed to an early grave. It was then that I knew I had to make a drastic change. I was already taking Zumba classes twice a week, but I wasn’t eating healthy. I was introduced to a new weight lost program Shred: The Revolutionary Diet before the book was published.  The program involves healthy eating 4 to 5 meals a day. I followed the program and I’m still following it to this day. Here, a year later, I’m 84 pounds lighter, from 294 to 210 pounds. My cholesterol went from 264 to 180, my blood pressure is normal and I am no longer pre-diabetic. I am in the best shape of my life. I would like to lose about 20 to 25 more pounds. Now, my regime is 4 to 5 small meals a day, Zumba class 3 times a week and resistance training twice a week. I try to include extra cardio everyday with a walking DVD. My before picture is from June 2012 and my present picture is June 2013, 84 pounds light from 294 to 210 pounds.

Beverly weight loss before and after

Jada lost 135 pounds

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Today’s featured weight loss before and after: Jada lost 135 pounds with hard work and determination after a major health crisis.  This proud mom of 4 credits her weight loss to her trainer, working out consistently and clean eating.  Here is what she shared with us:

I stare into my 1 year old daughter’s eyes and recall how I almost had a total breakdown when she was just 7 days old.  At 324 pounds, I was hospitalized for three days.  I was suffering with hypertension, an enlarged and weakened heart, palpitations, sleep apnea and fluid in my lungs. I was told that I’d be able to do no more than a 15 minute brisk walk because of my conditions, and when I asked would I get better if I lost weight I was told “not really.” My OB/Gyn told me he hadn’t seen that much fat in one person before and suggested I have weight loss surgery. They had a hard time getting my baby out (I had a C-Section) and an even harder time closing me up. I knew my life depended on my losing weight, but I wanted to do it naturally. So, I walked into Body By Denise when my baby girl was eight weeks and a day.  I was convinced that if I just got my weight down, things would get better despite what the doctors said. With a whole lot of hard work (working out five days each week), an equal amount of dedication, and a constant size 9 foot up my backside (my awesome trainer Denise Warren), I dropped the weight.  I no longer suffer with ANY of the aforementioned ailments. Exactly 1 year later, I am now 189 pounds.  I’m enjoying being a mom and have all the energy I need to run behind my tribe of energizer bunnies (I have 4 children, three boys ages 11, 8 and 5 and my 1 year old baby girl). I love Body By Denise (BBD) something serious. Eat Clean + Train Dirty = Great Results!!

To be more specific about eating clean, I do not eat processed foods at all and no white starches whatsoever. I drink only water and unsweetened tea. I have no more than 2 servings of fresh fruit daily and 2 to 3 servings of green leafy vegetables. I eat only lean protein like tilapia, salmon fillet or chicken breast. My protein is either steamed, baked or grilled. I consume about a gallon of water daily and I do not eat after 8pm, 5pm on days that I work out. I snack on unsalted almonds and pistachios and limit my sodium intake to no more than 1500mg daily. My sugar intake is 25g or less per day. I add lemon to my water whenever I can and make sure that warm lemon water is the first thing I consume in the morning…Then I have  fruit.

Jada weight loss before and after

Updated: Sabrina lost 152 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Check out this great before and after weight loss story: Sabrina lost 137 pounds with weight loss surgery 3 years ago and was able to overcome a number of health challenges.  Here is what she shared with us: (Updated 10/22/13 – See the update and photos below)

“I have been inspired by many during my weight loss journey. I have struggled with my weight since High School. My weight was up and down, after trying so many diets, weight loss pills, and different weight loss plans nothing seemed to work. My heaviest weight was 354 pounds and my health was not good. I was 29 years old and I was suffering from sleep apnea, severe acid reflux, back problems, knee problems and shortness of breath. I had to make a decision. On March 15, 2010, I decided to have weight loss surgery. It was a tough road, but it was well worth it compared to going through all the pain and medical problems I had before. I changed my eating habits and worked out 3-4 days a week.  The most important thing was I remembered where I came from so I would not allow myself to ever go back to what I use to be. My current weight is 217 pounds. I have gained a lot of muscle, learned healthier ways of eating and portion control.  Vitamins and constant prayer have also helped me.  Motivation from others helps keeps me going as well. Its been a little over three years since the surgery and I have maintained my weight loss. I am a happier healthier person.”

Update – Sabrina has lost a total of 152 pounds: “You posted my story while back. Well, I am currently still working on my goal to lose weight and I have lost more. I was looking over my medical records from the day I was released from the hospital and my weight the day I was released was 360 pounds. My current weight is 208 pounds. I have started using My Fitness Pal and this app has helped me control my calorie intake. I am so glad that I’m back on the road to losing weight again. I continue to workout and read books on clean eating. I even purchased your last book and this helped me so much. I have become more conscious about what I eat. I’m reading labels and drinking tons of water. Your site has encouraged me and others to continue on. Some days are harder than other but you must not let it weigh you down.  You’ve got to pick yourself up and keep going. I’m going through a separation from my husband but I refuse to let that knock me down. I am a winner and I will not give up!! Here are some new photos.”

Sabrina weight loss surgery

Orignal Photos:

sabrina weight loss surgerySabrina weight loss success

Lameka lost 106 pounds

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Today’s featured weight loss before and after story: Lameka lost 106 pounds going from 349 pounds to 243 pounds.  She was motivated by finding out she had stroke level high blood pressure.  She did it by counting calories, changing her diet, taking a prescription appetite suppressant and working out hard.  Here is what she shared with us:

Hello! My motivation began when I went to the doctor for consistent headaches. Stepping on the scale weighing in at 349 pounds, crushed me; only to hear seconds later that it was a miracle I had not “strocked out” with a blood pressure of 180/120 (give or take a few). From that day forward, I have been grinding. I have been counting calories, doing excessive exercising and drinking a case of water every 1 1/2 days.  Eating wise, I cut out fast foods, fried food, or sugar. After losing my first 40 pounds, I chose to consult with my doctor about a appetite suppressant. Two years later I’m weighing in at 243! I met my initial goal of losing the first 100 pounds, now my new goal is to get to 200 pounds! Great LIFE change! One day at a time!

Lameka before and after photos
Updated photo: July 2014

Lameka weight loss before and after

Updated Photo:  Posted 9/20/13

lameka weight loss

Stephanie lost 71 pounds

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Let’s show some BWLW love to Stephanie.  This proud mom lost 71 pounds by  eating right, working out and drinking lots of water.  Here is what she shared with us:

My name is Stephanie and I’m a single mom of two kids. Pretty much, I have been struggling all my life with my weight. I had went to the doctor and was put on blood pressure medicine. I knew then that I had to make a change. On June 4, 2012, I decided to make a lifestyle change. With two kids at the time, it was hard to work out at a gym since the ones in my neighborhood didn’t offer child care.  I decided to first take Zumba classes that were offered for free at my job. I started off my first two weeks doing protein shakes from GNC. One shake in the morning, afternoon and my meal in the evening. I drank a lot of water throughout the day, ate fruits and vegetables as well. I soon moved off the shakes and slowly moved into eating regular healthy foods. I ate what I wanted but in moderation. During the time of transitioning into my weight loss, I hit a plateau and decided to move from Zumba to doing kickboxing videos that were offered through my cable company on demand. I can now workout in the pleasure of my own home. I get up on several mornings around 4:30am and workout before getting my children up for school and having to be to work at 8am. I workout in my home 5-6 times a week doing Kickboxing/martial fusion.

I was determined and as if today I’ve lost 71 pounds by eating right, working out and drinking lots and lots of water. I was on nobody’s diet but my own. Being a mom it was hard but a sacrifice had to be made so I could have the energy to play with them and to work towards living a healthy lifestyle. It’s not easy but its so well worth it because you feel good about yourself. Prayer works, dedication works and motivation from others works. Most importantly, knowing what “YOU” accomplished is the best feeling. I have no goal. I workout to be healthy and that’s what keeps me going. I know with being a single mom working a 8-5 job, coming home to make meals for the kids and doing homework was a struggle of its own.  However, when you have the mindset that you are determined it all works out for the good. I shifted my atmosphere to better me. Praises to God for the push.

Stephanie weight loss before and after

Ashley lost 50 pounds

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Today’s featured weight loss before & after: Ashley lost 50 pounds by eating clean, working out 5 to 6 times per week.  She now encourages others on facebook and instagram.  Here is what she shared with us:

Ashley weight loss storyI have been following this page all year and the before and after pics have helped me to stay on my path to better health. Thank you soooo much for your posts!! I wanted to share my before and after pics. The left pic is from 2011 & the right is now. I’ve been battling with my weight loss ever since I was 10 years old.  Finally, I’m putting an end to my obesity roller coaster. I started off doing at home videos because I couldn’t make it to the gym with my kids, nor could I afford a trainer. I lost weight by eating clean, (no processed foods & occasionally I would have cheat meals or cocktails), working out 5-6x a week and praying to God for continued strength. I do various challenges with myself every 6-8 weeks to shock my body and today I just finished the Insanity DVDs.  YAAAAY! Im so happy because insanity is literally INSANE!

For motivation, I joined My fitness pal last year to keep track of the quanity and types of food I eat. What motivated me the most was starting a instagram page. I started posting pictures of myself and it helped me to stay accountable and on track. I still have a good 30-35 lbs to lose & Ive learned that patience and consistency are key ! My goal is a size 6 jeans.

If others are interested in seeing my progress or more pics they can go to facebook.com/watchmemelt2.  I also run a contest on Instagram every 8 weeks to help motivate women & reach their overall goals.

God Bless!

Ashley weight loss before and after

Kebra lost 145 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Let’s show some Black Women Losing Weight Love to Kebra.  She lost 145 pounds with gastric bypass weight reduction surgery.  Here is what she shared with us:

Got a ways to go!!! However, I’m determined and getting there after almost 9 months and a 145 pounds of weight loss!! Gastric sleeve surgery help saved my life. I am changing my lifestyle regarding how I eat and exercise.  I think I can meet my goal!!!

I elected to have gastric sleeve surgery 9/25/12.  It can be a challenge at times, but I remain focused.  I have struggled with my weight all my life!!!! Some say they wouldn’t take a chance and have surgery to lose weight. Well, I say I was taking the chance of not waking up each day with all that weight on me.  I feel that since Sept 25th, 2012, I hit the reset button on life. Blessed and grateful.

I changed the way I eat. I mainly eat foods higher in protein and cut my carbs down to hardly any only in tiny portions in moderations. I try to drink primarily water in my diet and I cut out sweets all together!!! As far as exercise I workout with my Kinect due to the crazy work schedule I had!!!  Since I have a more logical work schedule now, I’m about to go back hitting the gym to get a real workout!!! My motivation was my daughter being around for her and a better healthier living for myself.  Didn’t want to die young!!

Kebra weight loss surgery

Anisah lost 51 pounds

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Let’s show some BWLW love to Anisah who has lost 51 pounds.  This proud mom’s weight loss allowed her to get off of her blood pressure medication.  Here is what she shared with us:

Hey, my name is Anisah and I’m 35 years old.  I struggled with weight my whole life. At one point I reached 217 pounds.  I’m only 5’1″ so that is not a good look. My motivation to lose weight is to get off my high blood pressure medication that I was put on because of my weight gain. I started losing weight back in of January 2012.  Back then I was 217 pounds.   I started by cutting out fast food completely and cutting out snacks like cookies and cake that I love the most.  I also added more fruit, veggies, plenty of water, and baked food (never fried) to my diet. I stared going to the gym 4 days out of the week for an hour each time. I ran on the treadmill a lot, sometimes using the bike and ab machine. I also did other machines that work my arms, legs and other parts of my body. If I didn’t feel like to going to the gym than I would take an hour walk on a trail, which I loved doing because the outside is beautiful.  As of today I’m 51 pounds lighter weighing 166 pounds. Losing this weight not only lowered my high blood pressure to a point where I do have to take the medication anymore but it also made me feel great about myself and gave me tons of energy to use with my 10 year old son. This weight change was exactly what I need.  I’m going to continue to incorporate this healthy life change into my everyday lifestyle.

Anisah weight loss

Michele lost 70 pounds in 7 months

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Update Jan 2014: Michele sent in an updated photo.  She is now down at total of 82 pounds. Check out her video about her struggles with excess skin.

Michele weight loss before and after

Today’s weight loss before and after:  Michele lost 70 pounds in 7 months with a great personal trainer.  She has shared an interview with us that she did about her weight loss and her trainer.

“WHEN I FOUND MYSELF LITERALLY ROLLING TO THE FLOOR ON MY KNEES IN THE MORNINGS JUST TO GET OUT OF THE BED I KNEW IT WAS TIME” – Michele’s “OMG” moment was when she was made aware that she was pre-diabetic. Prior to that, she says “My doctor has been telling me for years that I needed to lose weight. I had been having all sorts of health issues (acid reflux, hiatal hernia, obstructed bowels, swollen feet, ankles) you name it, I had it. But, when I found myself literally rolling to the floor on my knees in the mornings just to get out of bed I knew it was time.”

Michele weight loss interview

MICHELE’S ACCOMPLISHMENTS, THUS FAR….

– Reduced her Weight by 70lbs!
– A Total of 60” Gone from various parts of her body!
– Lowered her Body Fat percentage by 20.1%
– Nearly 13pt reduction in her BMI
– Dropped her dress size from a 14/16 to 4/6

THE INTERVIEW…..

Have you always been overweight? If not, how long have you been overweight? When did you notice you started to gain weight?

“No. I have been overweight for about 13 years. I knew I was FAT but I just never used the term overweight or obese.”

Does overweight or obesity run in the family… meaning immediate members or grandparents?

“Knowing what I know now, yes my family is overweight.”
How do you feel now versus how you felt when you were overweight?

“While being overweight I was tired, sore and insecure about myself. I was embarrassed not just for myself but also my kids. I didn’t want to be around people and would tend to avoid going to certain functions. NOW, I feel more energetic and a lot younger. I feel like my old teenage self. I’m not tired and I like to walk. I am a lot more confident especially since I can fit into my children’s clothes.”

What kind of support, if any, did you get from family and friends? And in contrast, did you experience any negativity from friends and family?

“I have a lot of support from my daughters, sister and my mom. Tomi Nelson who is like a mom to me has been rooting me on every step of the way. I have many friends who have supported my journey by telling me to keep it up or just by staying silent and letting me do my thing. Some family and friends were a little concerned about me losing too much weight but I realize they don’t understand the body and what we are supposed to look like. (Watch old episodes of Soul Train) We have been conditioned to think that plump, thick, chunky is ok BUT it’s not. (Check Monique out now!)”

Have you ever tried to lose weight before? If so, what was the difference in what you did this time vs. other plans or programs you tried to follow?

“I have tried to lose weight several times on my own. I had DVD’s, I tried walking, I even had one of those silver space looking suits (the ones that make you sweat. lol) If you noticed everything I tried was related to the physical part of losing weight. Body Refined Inc. taught me that exercise is only 20% of the process; the other 80% is nutrition. This time around, I got the right HELP! Kurt guided me with nutrition tips and how to do the exercises properly.”

Was it a difficult journey? Are you satisfied with where you are now?

“Some aspects of the journey were challenging but not difficult, like disciplining myself to eat right when those around me aren’t but with Kurt’s help, I learned what to do when those around me aren’t eating healthy. My exercise was at a slow pace and gradually became more intense when my body became stronger.”

“Yes and No, I am satisfied with the progress thus far but I want more than just the weight loss. After realizing what I could look like plays a key factor in why I want more. I want my body to look a lot more toned and defined, you know like in the magazines. “

What have you learned about being healthy?

“I learned that my body functions so much better by eating the right foods and at the right times. I understand my body is not a dumping ground for all these foods that are so easily accessible. Just because it’s there and may seem convenient doesn’t mean I have to eat it. I now understand what my body needs to fuel itself. If I may say so myself, I feel and look younger, and I feel more confident about the way I look. “

How did you end up working w/ Body Refined Inc? What has your experience been like working w/ Body Refined Inc?

“I was referred to Body Refined by Nova Payton. Working with Body Refined has made my journey so much easier and stress free. I trust what Kurt has told, taught and showed me. Everything we do I understand is to teach me to be able to live a healthier life on my own. “

What advice would you give someone who wants to lose weight?

“My advice to someone who wants to lose weight the right way is to seek help. Many times we try on our own and we MAY succeed but only for a short time. Getting the proper help to ensure you don’t do further damage to your body is key. “

Final words….

“Working with Kurt, I gained a wealth of information which included research and statistics about obesity in women, ailments associated with poor health/nutrition and lack of physical activity. Kurt has been patient, understanding and stern during this journey. His approach is more teaching rather than just telling. I have watched other “trainers” in the gym and I never hear them tell their clients why they are doing a particular exercise. Kurt explains each exercise and what it will do to my body. He has provided me with one-on-one nutrition and fitness training with an emphasis on NUTRITION. I eat better therefore I feel better.

Each individual must find their inner motivation for weight loss. With the help of Body Refined Inc., I am achieving goals that I never thought I could or would do on my own. I now have the DISCIPLINE and EDUCATION to maintain and continue a HEALTHY LIFESTYLE.”