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Tecoye lost 69 pounds

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Today’s amazing weight loss before and after story:  Tecoye lost 69 pounds.  At 4’11” this mom went from 185 to 116 and developed some amazing abs as well. She lost the weight with portion control, changing her diet, and exercise. Her weight loss motivation is very moving. Here is what she shared with us:tecoye weight loss before and after

I have been overweight most of my life, and because I am only 4’11, any extra weight I have makes it even harder to carry at my size. I was 185 pounds and I was so uncomfortable in my skin and could not do the things I wanted to do with my kids. My husband is my biggest motivation. We were both overweight and tried many times to lose weight and be healthy.

During my first pregnancy, I developed high blood pressure and knew I definitely needed to make a change. My husband and I starting working out until I got pregnant for a second time. During that time, I converted back to some of my old habits. After that pregnancy, I weighed 165 pounds. During both pregnancies, medical issues contributed to early deliveries. My blood pressure was so high when I was pregnant with my son that they had to induce me at 34 weeks. The doctors were afraid that I might slip into a coma. With my daughter, I went into labor and delivered her at 28 weeks. She was only 2.6lbs and spent 2 months in the hospital. Even though it was undetermined why I had went into labor with her so early, it was my personal belief that I could have done more to prevent it.

From that point, I promised myself I would never be like that again. The biggest thing for me is preparation. I prepare my meals ahead of time so I always know what I am going to eat and take to work. My rule of thumb is if I didn’t bring it, I don’t eat it. I incorporated more protein in my diet and pride myself in eating a variety of fruits and vegetables. I don’t eat fried foods and strictly limit myself on carbs and sugars. I also drink at least 80 ounces of water throughout the day. I got up every morning before work at 4:30 and worked out in my basement. I also changed what I was eating. I started off walking on the treadmill and using the elliptical for at least 30 minutes. As I got better I continually increased the intensity of my workouts. I did a lot of jumping exercises like box jumps, jumping jacks and burpees. The first month I lost 15lbs and was excited to continue. As I got smaller the weight became harder to lose, so I started doing yoga. Doing that really sculpted my body. I started in December of 2012 and reached my current weight of 116 pounds in June of 2013.  I am in the best shape of my life. I now have just as much energy as my kids to be able to run and keep up with them.

tecoye weight loss before and after

Karen lost 30 pounds

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Let show some Black Women Losing Weight love to Karen who has lost 30 pounds.  She was motivated by a diagnosis of diabetes.  Here is what she shared with us:

I changed my eating habits.  I stopped eating pork.  Now I eat chicken, fish and less beef.  I also eat a lot of vegetables and have cut down on sweets.  I don’t drink soda, only water or sweet tea.  I walk 2 – 3 miles, 3 days a week and I workout two days a week.  In addition, I trained myself to eat small portions so now I get full fast with less food. My motivation was my doctor telling me I have diabetes and I might have to take insulin.  She said that  if I lose the weight, I can over come diabetes. Being overweight, you start having high blood pressure and diabetes.  I didn’t want that for myself.  I’m 41 years old and I feel that the older you get the harder it’s is to get the weight off. Thank you so much for taking the time to listen and for having a page for us.  When I see your page, it encourages me even more.

Karen weight loss before and after

Tierra lost 38 pounds

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Today’s featured weight loss success story: Tierra lost 38 pounds going from 210 to 172 pounds.  She focused on portion control, lifestyle change vs. diet and regular exercise.  Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey:

My name is Tierra my weight loss journey as started in 2009. The picture on the right was June 2009, before I had gotten pregnant.  This photo is also my motivational picture that helps me to get my workout in. Everyday it’s a struggle but when I look back on where I started it always amazes me.  I was 210 pounds in 2099 and now, in 2013, I’m down to 172 pounds.  When I show people my before photo, people ask me “So, you were pregnant?”.   I proudly tell them NO that’s all me pre-pregnancy and I’m proud of were I have come from. Every journey started with the first step.

My motivation for my weight loss: I had loss the sense that I was beautiful and was not comfortable in my skin. My eating habits are not the best but my focus is on portion control. I don’t like the word diet, so I have made changes to portion and creating a lifestyle change!  I love high intensity cardio workouts, so Insanity, Zumba, boxing, and jogging are my core workouts.  However, I change it up by hiking, taking pole fitness classes and weights are my new best friends.

Tierra-before-and-after-weight-loss

Kim lost 35 pounds

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Update from Kim! She has lost a total of 45 pounds (down from 210lbs): Feb 1, 2014 – “Hello, Ladies just wanted to give you an update on my story since my last post. I have lost an additional 10 pounds, which now puts me at 165. I was planning on waiting until I hit my goal of 20 more pounds at 155lbs, but decided to give an update since it has been so long. I also want to be held accountable and get really motivated again.

Okay, so I hit a major plateau since I first shared my story and it has been hard to lose the additional weight. My experience is once you hit a plateau, you really have to change up and increase the workout intensity. You also have to scale back more on eating. I will admit I have been a little lazy and with the holidays and being really busy at work I slowed down a lot. I was so use to my routine, I hated to have to change it up and push harder.  My eating has stayed about the same. I still prepare my own meals and do not eat out. I continue to make better choices and just really practice portion control. However, I have indulged a little on some days and my workouts went to three days a week instead of 6.  I could have honestly made my goal last year, but I got really comfortable at my new size and liking the way my clothes fit. Nevertheless, I still have some additional weight to lose on my stomach and back. I am also still considered overweight for my height according to my physician. This year, 2014, I plan to start trying some of the smoothie recipes here on BWLW and I also have started back drinking more water and cutting back on sweets. In the next couple of weeks, I will go back to 6 days a week at the gym. Right now I am spending an additional 10 minutes on the elliptical machine and treadmill. I also am getting ready to start Zumba classes consistently. I am still lifting weights which are amazing in transforming the body. Okay, so that’s it for now. I will post again when I hit my goal of weight! Thanks BWLW! I thank God for this website! The tools, resources and success stories really help me stay on track!”

Kim updated weight loss

Check out this before & after story from Kim who’s lost 35 pounds, dealt with high blood pressure and took control of her health!  Here is what she shared with us:

I have struggled all my life with my weight. I was 130 pounds in high school.  When I first started college, the weight went up to 145 lbs, which I did not think was too bad.  By the age of 24, I went up to 165 pounds. I lost weight and went to 140 lbs, which was short lived because I went on a fad diet. I gained 20 pounds back fast and then got pregnant and gained 13 more putting me at 173 lbs. I was determined not to go back to work fat after maternity leave, so I got down to 150 pounds.

Over the years and as a result of going back to poor eating habits, I bloomed up to 210 pounds.  I was so unhappy with myself. I had started and stopped diets all my life. In March of 2011, I got motivated and in about two months got down to 190 by walking outside every day and portion control. From June of 2011 until the beginning of January 2013, I would gain and lose five to eight pounds. I finally decided at the end of January of 2013 that I was tired of being unhappy with my weight. I wanted to be healthier, fit in all my cute clothes that had been sitting in my closet for over a decade and lastly just be the best I can be for myself and my daughter.  I also have a family history of diabetes and high blood pressure and did not want to go down that road of health issues. I was diagnosed with high blood pressure when I was 28 and told by my doctor that it was weight and stress related. He told me if I would just exercise, relax and eat right I could get off the medicine.  I never really took the medicine consistently because my pressure never was that high and when I would get my yearly checkup all my blood work would come back normal.
kim before after weight loss

On January 27, 2013, at 41 years old, I decided to take charge of my health and to stop taking it for granted. I noticed I was starting to have a lot of headaches and that my blood pressure was starting to be high despite me finally taking the medicine consistently and that scared me.  I decided to start using my membership to the gym that I have had since 1998 and signed my daughter up as well. She plays basketball and begged to join me so that she could stay in shape. It has been a true blessing! We motivate each other, our relationship is better and I call her my own little personal trainer because she taught me how to lift weights. I started at 195 this time around and now weigh 175 with 20 more to go.

I actually found BWLW through my older brother who is a fitness guy. He encourages me at least every other day and although some days he can be really hard on me, it pushes me to stay on track because I know it’s all done out of love. I make better food choices, control my PORTIONS; I do cardio and lift weights four days a week in the gym. I also power walk two days a week at the park to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. I do not count calories or fat grams, too much work for me personally. I just bring my lunch to work every day and cook my dinner every night. No more fast food for me! If I really have an urge to eat out, I normally do a 6 inch deli sub and soup. I will share an occasional piece of cake with my daughter if I get an urge for sweets, but that’s it. I also try to eat light for breakfast and lunch so that I can enjoy a nice dinner at night without making major changes to the menu. I will post again when I hit my goal weight of 155. We can do it LADIES! I have not felt this happy and motivated in years! I love reading all the success stories and thanks so much for reading mine!

Crystal lost 140 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Update Dec 2013 – “Hello, I was featured several months back. My name is Crystal Coffen and I had gastric sleeve weight loss surgery in October 2012.  I wanted to give you an update and let you know that I’ve lost a total of 140 lbs (38 more pounds gone). I eat a lot of protein and vegetables. I also exercise some but not enough! My motivation is my kids and a special guy in my life that keeps me encouraged” Check out her updated photo!

Crystal weight loss story

Original Post

Let’s show some Black Women Losing Weight Love to Crystal.  She went from 410 lbs to 308 lbs with gastric sleeve weight reduction surgery, changing her eating and exercise.

My name is Crystal and I had Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy weight loss surgery on October 5, 2012.  My starting weight was 410 pounds. I’m now down to 308!  I exercise at least 3 times a week, while eating healthy with lots of water, protein and low carbohydrate intake!  I still have a ways to go and I’m confident that I will get there! I enjoy shopping now more than ever before!!!

My motivation was wanting to be around for my 2 kids, ages 2 and 8!  I wanted to be able to get on the slide at the park instead of sitting on the bench and watching. I changed my eating habits. I don’t eat junk food daily, and I no longer drink sodas! I’ve learned portion control instead of just depriving myself of foods that I do like , like fried chicken.  I use to eat 4 pieces in one setting now I only eat half of one piece and I’m satisfied!  Right now my workout is mostly cardio. I walk on treadmill for 45 minutes at least 3 times a week! I also use my shake weights while walking! Thanks

Crystal before and after weight loss

April lost 70 pounds

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Today’s featured weight loss success story: April lost 70 pounds by focusing on portion control and faith.  She is an inspirational example of a wife and she has transformed herself.  Here is what she shared with us:

I just want to say…. THANKS!! This page has been so inspiring and uplifting! It shows exactly why black girls rock!!! I myself have struggled with my weight. My husband has been sick with a spinal disorder since high school and while taking care of him, I let myself go. At my heaviest, I was 217lbs, size 22 and had no self-esteem! I had to make a change….QUICK! I stopped feeling sorry for myself and made a change. I had a husband to live for but more importantly I had ME to live for! I’m proud to say that I lost 70lbs and am now a size 6! Glory be to God! Thank you guys so much for sharing these stories… The struggle us real! Thanks again and God Bless!

In terms of eating habits, I focused largely on portion control. I ate whatever I wanted….in moderation. I didn’t let myself indulge in a lot of fried foods, sweets, or breads. Granted, I still ate them, but all in moderation and never together. As far as exercise, I walked 2 miles (the length of my street) everyday and occasionally added in some jogging…on good days.  For the most part, my FAITH is what got me through it because at times I got discouraged. You see, I came from a family of all “skinny girls” and I never thought I’d ever be anything other than “the fat sister.” I realized that I was way too young to be so unhealthy and that my husband needed me to be around for a long time. My family has a history of diabetes and I wasn’t willing to be a part of those statistics. I still have my weak moments, but I love ME now and I don’t ever wanna go back!  All in all, I stepped back from the table and I stepped my game up!  Thank you!

April weight loss

Staci lost 33 pounds

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Let’s show some love to Staci who has lost 33 pounds post pregnancy with My Fitness Pal, portion control and watching her calorie intake.  She is blogging about her progress and wants to be less than 200 pounds by her birthday in November.

I love your page! It is truly an inspiration to see the great results and it pushes me more and more towards reaching my goal! I started my journey in August 2012 at 286.6 pounds (I’m 290 in my before photo) and today I am 259.2 pounds (A little more than my after photo).  I am a firm believer that I can do all things through Christ who strengths me! I plan to lose 60-70 pounds before my next birthday in November and get below 200 pounds. I lost my weight by using My Fitness Pal and watching my calorie intake and portion control. Feel free to check out my blog as well: getfitwithstaci.wordpress.com/

When I feel like I can’t press forward I look at the success stories of those who have had a successful journey. I am reminding myself that I also can obtain the same results.  My motivation: my husband, my two children, Co-workers and inspirational posts from Facebook friends and people who post their success stories.

I changed my eating habits by eliminating sodas and sugary drinks, eating more whole wheat products and avoiding white rice and pastas. I now avoid cakes and sugary snacks and opt for fresh fruits. I still enjoy certain foods in moderation and during special occasions. I’ve increased my water intake to at least 10 cups per day.  I’ve become more active by playing with my kids.  I’m CONSTANTLY MOVING around the house, at work and parking far from the store while out shopping. I’m also making healthier choices when eating, practicing portion control and staying active most days of the week.

Staci Weight Loss

Stephanie lost 48 pounds

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Update Dec 2015 – We shared Stephanie’s story (below) about 2 1/2 years ago and she has kept the weight off. I’m Stephanie M. and I was your April 15, 2013 story of the day. I just wanted to update you and let you know that I’ve maintained my weight loss. I’ve had a few ups and down, but thru it all I’m standing strong. I celebrated my 38th birthday in September and I’m very determined to keep my weight off!

Stephanie before and after

April 2013 – Today’s featured weight loss success story:  Stephanie lost 48 pounds by following low Glycemic Index lifestyle and exercising regularly.

“I started my weight loss journey in 2010 on my 33rd birthday, at 203 pounds and wearing a size 16. By my birthday 2011, I was down to 161 pounds. Then, on my birthday 2012, I was 155 pounds and wearing a size 8. I continue to eat healthy. I follow a Low GI (Glycemic Index) lifestyle. I workout and have begun to run 5k races.  I will do my 1st 8k on April 27, 2013.”

Can you tell us more about what you did in terms of eating and exercise?

“I followed a low GI lifestyle which consists of little to no carbohydrates. I began to eat breakfast, which was a meal I often skipped in the past. By being a nurse, I of all people should know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I drink plenty of water sometimes more than 8 glasses daily. I also began to eat snacks throughout the day which primarily consist of fruit. I often eat my meals off of a salad plate for portion control. My motivation was that I wanted to be healthy and get back to my premarital weight. I wanted to lead a healthier lifestyle for my husband and children. I wanted my oldest daughter, Havana to see that I lead by example. What keeps me motivated is that I love the way I look and the impact my weight loss has had on my life. I wog(walk-jog) 3 miles 4 times a week. I use Body Gospel DVDs twice a week, and ride my bike 6 miles at least once weekly around my neighborhood. I walk constantly at work, I always take the stairs. God gives me the strength to continue on and help others with their weight loss journey.”

stephanie weight loss

Bethany lost 64 pounds

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Let’s show some love to Bethany who has lost 64 pounds with the help of Weight Watches, portion control and regular exercise, including Zumba.

“I’m still amazed at the change that losing 64 poundss has made in my life.   I still have a way to go because I’m not done yet. Anyone who really knows me knows that my confidence has always been high, but when I get to my goal…BABY, THEY GOIN HAVE TO POP ME TO STOP ME. LOL

#focused  #still loving wht I see whn I look n the mirror  #teamweightloss

I’m doing Weight Watchers to help with portion control.  I go to the gym 3 to 4 days per week to do cardio and weight lifting.  I go to Zumba class on my off days from the gym. I’m 32 yrs old and I have yet to marry and have children which is something that I want for my future. So, my motivation is knowing that I want to be healthy and be able to play with my future children and take care of them. I’ve been on this journey for almost two years with still a long way to go, but I’m loving the changes I’ve seen so far and the way I feel now.”

Bethany weight loss

 

Lana lost 62 pounds

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Today’s featured weight loss success story:  Proud Alpha Kappa Alpha soror Lana lost 62 pounds with SmartLipo, Weight Watchers, exercise and changing her diet. Here is her story:

“I have struggled with losing weight for about 8 years. I tried waking, working out and even Jenny Craig, Nutri- System, Atkins Diet to name a few. I had SmartLipo on my stomach in June 2012. I was 210 and was depressed because I had hit that 200 mark. I had to do something so I decided to do this. The results were phenomenal. Most of my weight was in my stomach and when I had that done I saw significant results.”

What did you do in terms of changing your eating habits and exercise to lose weight?

“I used portion control such as measuring my food. I also followed the Weight Watchers plan. My exercise regime was walking at least 3 times a week at the park or on my treadmill when I couldn’t make it to the park. I would fast pace walk 4-5 times. On the treadmill, I would do 30 min.  I don’ t diet now, I watch my calories and portion control. I also walk to help keep the weight off. I now weigh 148 and I love it. I have lost 62 pounds. I feel so good about my health and weight now!!”

Lana before and after photos