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Chante’ lost 60 pounds

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Chante’ lost 60 pounds with a low card/high protein diet and exercise.  She was able to stop taking medication for diabetes and high blood pressure after losing weight.  Here is what she shared with us:

My name is Chante’, better known to all as Tay. I have been struggling with my weight since the age of 19, when I had my one and only child. Before my pregnancy, I was at 145 pounds and after I gave birth, I was at 250 pounds. Through out my adult life, I lived with the weight and yo-yo’d from 250 pounds to 219 pounds (being the lowest I’ve ever gone, then right back up to 248 lbs). I finally settled at 240 lbs and stayed there for so long. In October of 2006, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. When I found the best doctor, she explained to me what I needed to do in order to come off meds. LOSE WEIGHT…I wasn’t trying to hear that. I already knew about diabetes because my mother had type 1 diabetes. In February of 2009, I was diagnosed with high blood pressure. So now, I was taken meds for the diabetes and for high blood pressure. Geeze, I didn’t want to meds, but I had to since I wasn’t even trying to do anything else. I continued to not listen and kept it moving. Last year, I lost my mother in August of 2012. This hit me real hard and to be honest, I still have not really accepted it. Over the next couple of months I was lost and confused. I didn’t want to die with a lot of health aliments, like my mother did.

In January, I decided to start my new healthy lifestyle. January, 4, 2013 changed my life. My starting weight was 240 pounds. I am currently at 180 pounds. I started using healthy apps on my iPhone: Myfitnesspal, Runtastic, Nike+Running, Runkeeper, BodyMedia Armband, and just recently purchased a Garmin Watch. I had to build myself to up to running. Walked then jog, and kept the process up that way. Now, I can run 3 miles and I’m good. No feelings of passing out or throwing up. Also, I started on a Low Carb/High Protein Diet. This has really helped me because I am currently not on any medication for diabetes and high blood pressure. Both are currently stable. Thank You God!!! My mom would have been so proud.  I know she watching me. I now have a personal trainer that is helping me drop 30 pounds more that I am trying to lose as well as getting my body tighter. I lift weights, run, and enjoy being overall healthier and stronger. My daughter is so proud of me. Just to think, I thought about having the surgery but I am so happy that I did not. Doing it on my own gave me more confidence.  I’m also glad God kept that drive alive in me to be successful in my heart, mind and soul. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

Chante weight loss story

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

Crysta lost 80 pounds

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Today’s featured weight loss before and after story:  Crysta lost 80 pounds by focusing on losing weight for herself and not for others.  Insanity, lots of cardio and changing her eating habits have been key to her weight loss journey.  Here is what she shared with us:

My motivation was to be healthy and be happy inside and out.  For too many years, I did not think about losing weight for myself but for others. I had to stop crying about my weight and change it. I cut out sweets and white bread. I eat a lot of protein and veggies. I only drink water tea and coffee, but on the weekends I may have a cheat day. Cardio, cardio, cardio is your friend. In the last two months I have been doing Insanity. It is hard work but you have to really want it and work hard; it really helps to have motivators and workout partners too.

Crysta weight loss before and after

 

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.”

Myya lost 100 pounds

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Today’s featured weight loss before and after story:  Myya Mixon lost 100+ pounds and now competes in fitness competitions. Her weight loss story is a true transformation story. Here is what she shared with us about her journey:

8 years ago, I weighed 216 pounds. My fitness journey began when I saw a picture of myself and I hardly recognized who I was. After seeing this picture, I purchased a gym membership at Gold’s Gym and began attending group fitness classes. I worked out 6 days a week, 2 hours per day. My exercise regimen focused on both cardio and strength training. I also placed myself on a strict 1200-1500 calories a day diet. In 8 weeks, I lost 22lbs and then I was hooked. After about a year and a half, I had lost 75 pounds. I kept the 75 pounds off for 6 years and then I decided that I wanted to compete in fitness competitions. I met with Adele Amore Travis of Amor Fitness and Nutrition and she became my competition coach. She monitored my nutrition and revamped my workout routine. In 5 months, I lost an additional 27lbs and placed 6th in my first fitness competition.  I placed 2nd in my second fitness competition. I am living proof that if you are determined and persistent, you CAN do whatever your heart desires. Changing your body is 90 percent mental and 10 percent physical.

Myya weight loss transformation

Check her out online at www.myyamixon.com

People Magazine contacted us about Myya’s story and chose her for a weight loss themed issue.

Myya Mixon People Magazine

MrsTLovely lost 131 pounds with the Realize Band

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MrsTLovely wrote to us about her weight loss journey.  She lost 131.6 pounds with Realize Band weight loss surgery. Even though she had weight loss surgery, she credits her hard work, dedication to a lifestyle change, faith and perseverance as key to her weight loss.

Hi, I’ve lost 131.6 pounds to date. I used to weigh 378.8 pounds i now weigh 247.2 pounds. I had Realize Band weight loss surgery to help me with portion sizes on June 28th, 2011. However, I credit my weight loss more so to hard work, dedication, faith and perseverance. I work out 6-8 times per week. I started out by working out for 2-3 hours. Now, I exercise twice a day and I eat clean. I documented my full journey on Youtube.  I have inspired and motivated many to change their lives and have changed people’s minds in regards to weight loss surgery, especially the band.  The amount I have lost is far more then expected for the Realize Band.  The expectation was 60 pounds and I’ve lost 131 pounds.  I credit the change in lifestyle I’ve made. I have a facebook page where i share motivational words and recipes for effective weight loss.   Also, I am still active on youtube in hopes of helping as many  people as I can on their journeys as I’ve been doing for the last almost two years while chronicling mine.

MrsTLovely weight loss surgery

Yolanda lost 100 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Let’s show some Black Women Losing Weight love to Yolanda.  This proud mom lost 100 pounds in 10 months with weight loss surgery and no longer has high blood pressure and arthritis.  She expresses in her story that her weight made her feel safe and she was able to hide behind it.  Here is what she shared with us:

On Sept 5, 2012, I had weight loss surgery. I have lost 100 pounds! My start weight was 262 pounds and now I’m down to 162 pounds. From 2000 to 2012, I had two babies, high blood pressure and arthritis in my spine. I could barely barely walk 100 ft. without catching my breath and experiencing extreme pain in my legs and lower back. I put my life on hold for all those years, because being bigger made me feel safer for some reason. I literally hid behind my weight and it controlled my life. I can’t believe how much my life has transitioned in 10 months. The high blood pressure and arthritis are gone!! No more riding around on a scooter to shop in stores! I can walk now without losing my breath or being in pain.

I did not gain weight from overeating. I gained it from not eating enough food, not exercising, stress and not getting enough rest. The fat in my body stayed stored up due partially to starvation. My routine was 1 to 2 meals a day, if that. Now that the weight is gone, I feel like the most wonderful person in the world! I have my life back! I love going to the gym three times a week to work out. I eat more now to maintain my weight, meditate, and try to keep myself stress-free! I hope my story inspires someone out there who is struggling and hiding behind their weight like I did. You are not alone in this fight! It takes courage and don’t worry about what others think, because you only get one life and one body! So do what is best for you and live your life like it is GOLDEN! I took control of my life and it was the best decision I ever made! Blessings!

yolanda weight loss