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Lakisha lost 83 pounds

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Transformation of the Day: Lakisha shares how she lost 83 pounds. Although she was an athlete in the past, this mom of three stopped focusing on fitness over the years. Starting in 2023, she changed her lifestyle and achieved excellent results.

Lakisha before and after weight loss

Social Media:
Instagram: @Lak.joy.love

I wanted to share my fitness transformation with you! In 2023, I started at 224 pounds. Through consistency, working out five days a week, and changing my mindset, I’m now at 141 pounds. As a mom of three, it wasn’t easy, but focusing on my goals has been life-changing.

What was your motivation?
What motivated me to begin working out was that I’ve always been an athlete. After having children, I focused more on them and lost track of my health. I decided to prioritize myself again so I could feel healthier and happier. I also wanted to keep up with my kids at the playground because it didn’t feel good when I couldn’t.

What is your workout routine?
I work out five days a week doing strength training with the help of YouTube videos, especially Juice and Toya’s workouts. I aim for at least 30 minutes every morning at 4:30 AM—no excuses.

What kept me motivated was focusing on being consistent, not perfect. I told myself that I’d commit to 30 minutes of exercise every day, no matter what. Once I built that habit, staying consistent became much easier.

How did you change your eating habits?
I stopped eating out and focused on enjoying whole foods. One of my favorite meals is a salmon bowl with cucumber and carrots, which gives me healthy protein while keeping things simple.

When did you start your journey?
I started my journey on October 3, 2023, when I became serious about consistency.

What is your height?
I am 5’7”.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
Surgery has not been part of my journey.

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
Remember that the weight loss journey is for you. As women, we often put others first, but I had to learn to be selfish with this goal. I told myself that every day I give the entire day to everyone else—so the least I could do was spend 30 minutes for myself.

Valencia lost 25 pounds

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Transformation of the Day: Valencia shares how she lost 25 pounds. This mom of three has told her children that they are stuck with her until she’s 100 years old, so she decided to take her health seriously. Her coach provided the nutrition and fitness guidance she needed to thrive.

Valencia before and after weight loss

Social Media:

FaceBook: V Sonya Jones
Instagram: @DivaTude75
TikTok: FavorFactor

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up? I will be turning 50 in 2025,, which was my initial reason for wanting to lose weight. Also, I have three kids, and I tell them all the time that they are stuck with me until I am at least 100…lol. The other running joke is that I am out here trying to be these churrens (children) fine (bleep) Mama. I want to live and be healthy for the day that I have grandchildren. After all, they are to call me Diva, not Grandma.

Being in good health was another reason. When I decided to take my health seriously, I thank God that I didn’t have any health issues, but I do have family members and a family history of diabetes and high blood pressure. Deciding to lose weight was to also prayerfully ward off any of those diseases. I don’t like taking medicine and detest needles, so I figure if I am in good health, that can prayerfully prevent me from having health issues and potentially being on meds.

I was following Terry Starks on TikTok, and one day, after seeing one of his transformations, I was intrigued. I sent that initial email, and it has been life-changing and body-changing! When he spoke of God in the initial conversation with him, I knew then that this was for me. Terry sends emails every day that are encouraging and praising God, so those helped me stay the course.

My daughters ensured that I stayed on my meal plans; they wouldn’t let me cheat. Once I saw the changes in the first couple of weeks, I loved how I looked in the mirror. I had packed clothes away for a yard sale, but I have been able to unpack some and can fit them now.

How did you change your eating habits? Terry Starks, a certified nutritionist, was my lifesaver. His meal plans are what helped me learn how to eat to live. I always said that I could handle the exercise part if someone could just help me with the meals and the eating. I am so glad that I found him. I was eating out a lot before I connected with Terry. Since working with him, I am prepping my meals, which isn’t as bad as people think.

Having my meals prepped and ready to eat makes this lifestyle change so easy. It’s funny because I thought I didn’t like asparagus and Brussels sprouts. However, they are both actually pretty tasty. I don’t know when I last had a Coke or coffee.

What is your workout routine? I enjoy cardio videos on YouTube, dancing, outdoor walks, and my mini stepper. I recently have started incorporating dumbbells, kettlebells, and resistance bands in an effort to tone up.

How often did you work out? I split my workout into 30 minutes each morning and 30 minutes each evening. Some days, if I am really into my routine or walk, I keep going. I try to set goals for myself and will work until I have reached them. So I am getting it in seven days a week.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight? I am down 25 pounds. I started at 204 lbs, and I currently weigh 179 lbs.

What is your height? I am 5’6″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take? I started with Terry Starks meal plans on July 22, 2024, and have been on for 77 days. (as of my most recent photos)

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far? What you eat matters, and movement is medicine. I now enjoy foods that I thought I didn’t like. I feel so much better now that I actually enjoy my workouts. I am eating to live, so I don’t want this just to be a diet but a lifestyle change.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight? It starts in your mind; once you make up your mindand commit to the change, you can do it. Block out the naysayers, and don’t compare your journey to the next person’s. Find your why, and GO FOR IT! At the end of the day, it is YOU versus YOU. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey? No, that is what intrigued me so much about Terry Starks’ program. He is transforming bodies with no surgeries, no waist trainers, no diets, and no pills. I never considered surgery but have had my share of waist trainers, pills, and teas. NONE of those things gave me the results that Terry’s program gave me. So, I wanted to know and see for myself how the results from his program were being obtained.

Lane Larue lost 135 pounds

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Transformation of the Day: Lane Larue shares how she lost 135 pounds. Her motivation? She was tired of feeling down and sick all the time. Also, she is determined to see her beloved son’s milestones and achievements as she grows.

Lane before and after weight loss

Social Media
Instagram: @lane__larue

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?

In late 2022, I was feeling down and sick all the time. No energy at all. I considered having a gastric sleeve weight loss surgery revision, but I just didn’t want to go through all that again and fail again. After all, I only lost a total of 50 lbs after surgery. (look up genetic weight “set points.”)

I found a weight management doctor. He did genetic testing and determined that a GLP-1 inhibitor would be my best option for successful weight loss up to surgery. I was pre-diabetic with hypertension and mild sleep apnea at my highest: 375 pounds. I avoided surgery and lost more weight than I ever with the injections.

My main goal and anchor throughout has been my son. I’m so motivated to be here for him, to see all his milestones and achievements. Beyond that, I truly and finally wanted a better quality of life for myself. I saw a light, and I followed it to therapy, working through my trauma related to food. That set the stage for a love affair with myself that led perfectly into my weight loss journey.

How did you change your eating habits?

I used Mounjaro/Zepbound. My insulin resistance improved so much with Mounjaro that they switched me to the WLS version, Zepound. My pre-diabetes is resolved. Hypertension resolved. I also do intermittent fasting daily and only eat between 3 pm and 7 pm. I drink LOTS OF WATER and take a full spectrum vitamin and mineral supplements.

My worst side effects are constipation, nausea in the first few days after the weekly shot (Zofran helps), itchiness at the sight of the injection, and occasional vomiting. Keep in mind that I HAVE ZERO SHAME ABOUT USING WEIGHT LOSS TOOLS. If it works for me, it works for me. Living lighter and longer is “natural” enough for me.  

What is your workout routine?

I walk in my neighborhood and do low-impact workouts because I have severe knee joint damage due to years of carrying all the weight and previous falls. I am having a knee replacement surgery in December 2024 to increase my mobility and types of workouts.

How often did you work out?

I walk 3-4 times a week and 30-60 minutes a day. In bad weather, I do low-impact workouts on YouTube from home.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
Starting Weight: 375
Current Weight: 240

What is your height?

I’m 5’5″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?

My journey began in February 2023, so it’s been one year and nine months.

I genuinely believe losing slower has trained my brain to eat less, naturally. It’s a metabolic process, but there’s also a brain component. It affects the pituitary gland and increases feelings of fullness. Even taking a break every once in a while for vacations or holiday periods (I like to eat and enjoy!), I never gain anything because the small portions and fasting are so normal to me now! Keep in mind that anyone who drops off of a weight loss routine will regain. There are some misconceptions regarding quick regain with injections. I’ve been on many diets, and it’s really a just discipline thing.

When did you have weight loss surgery?

I previously had WLS in 2014, and only lost 50 pounds after surgery. Multiple providers told me this is common with gastric sleeve and my BMI level. I started this latest journey at 375 pounds, the exact weight I started with for the sleeve. It was not a factor this time because my stomach was already compromised.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?

I’ve learned I can lose weight however I see fit. I don’t need to do anything according to anyone else’s set timing or process. I know my body, and I’ve crafted my weight journey strictly around my life. And it worked! So I will stand beside it!

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?

Don’t rush yourself. Set yourself up for success and not disappointment by avoiding comparing yourself to others. Don’t let anyone direct your path or shame your process. Focus only on YOUR ultimate goals and chase them with reckless abandon. It’s so worth it!

Consuella lost 113 pounds

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Transformation of the Day: Consuella shares how she lost 113 pounds. Her grandchildren inspired her to change her life. She wanted to be healthier, have more self-confidence, and participate in activities without constantly feeling tired.

Consuella before and after weight loss

Social Media:
Instagram: @QueenBeeDST
TikTok: @details_33

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My motivation was better health and better self-confidence. I wanted to feel comfortable in my own skin. I wanted to enjoy my grandchildren and other activities without always being tired. I wanted to experience activities I could never do with ease before, like hiking and bike riding. When I wanted to give up, my grandchildren were my initial inspiration. Then, I decided that I needed to do this for myself if my journey would truly be an authentic, forever lifestyle change. 

How did you change your eating habits?
I began focusing on protein, then vegetables, and occasionally carbs. I stopped snacking on chips and candy. I made high-protein and high-fiber snacks. I also opted for vinaigrette dressings and homemade marinades to control what was in my food.  

I was also very intentional about my water intake, cutting out all other beverages except my morning tea. When drinking tea, I substituted a small drop of honey with sugar. The most significant change was that I started cooking at home and not eating out as much. 

What is your workout routine?
I combine strength training, HIIT, and cardio. I focus a lot on my core. 

How often did you work out?
I work out at least four times a week and sometimes six. Not only does exercising help me maintain my weight, but it also gives me energy and improves my mood. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 283 pounds. My current weight is 170 pounds. 

What is your height?
My height is 5’4″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started and stopped many times with fad diets and quick fixes. My forever journey began in August 2021. My total transformation took about a year. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey? Yes, I had gastric bypass surgery in February 2022.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
Consistency, discipline, and planning are the keys. There are no quick fixes. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Take your time and lose weight slowly and steadily. Quick fixes can lead to disappointment and regaining.

Charisma lost 89 pounds

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Transformation of the Day Charisma lost 89 pounds. Insulin-resistant PCOS, negative comments from friends, and an unhelpful trainer are some of the challenges she faced along the way. She focused on wellness and figured out what tools and habits work for her.

Charisma before and after weight loss

Social Media:
Tiktok: @the_christianRN

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I had been overweight since I was 15 years old. I was bullied a lot growing up because of it. After graduating from nursing school in 2019, I signed up for a personal trainer that a so-called “friend” recommended. This same “friend” would also make sarcastic comments about me being “bigger than her.”

Well, after about a month with this specific training facility, my trainer told me I was “embarrassing myself and wasting his time.” Needless to say, I canceled my membership and started binge eating. By the end of 2020, I weighed almost 300 pounds. I also began to experience symptoms of PCOS.

In November 2021, I got the official diagnosis of Insulin-resistant PCOS. I tried hard to lose weight after this. I worked out two times a day and even attempted to go vegan. I was still GAINING weight because my insulin levels were too high. I decided to pray and ask God to help me lose weight.

That’s when I discovered the GLP-1 medication called Mounjaro. Because my insulin levels were in the “diabetic” range, I was able to get my insurance to cover the medication for free. I started my first injection in Dec 2022, and have been losing weight ever since. I truly thank God. I often say I’m taking this journey with God because He is the one who gives me the strength to stay on this journey, even during rough times. I’m hoping my journey can inspire other women who suffer from PCOS.

How did you change your eating habits?
I no longer eat pork, and I limit my intake of fast foods, fried foods, and foods high in carbohydrates. Even though I take a medication that suppresses my appetite, I still have to be very mindful of how I eat due to the side effects of the medication. Greasy, high-carb, and/or high-sugar foods literally make me feel nauseous these days. I also stopped drinking juice and soda. I drink 80-100oz of spring water a day. If I have a craving for juice, I make it myself using my juicer and fresh fruit. 

What is your workout routine?
I work out 3-4 times per week—nothing crazy, lol. Because of PCOS, I can’t do intense workouts, so I walk and go to Pilates. Pilates has really been a game changer as far as toning up and building muscle. It’s a form of resistance training. I go to Pilates twice a week and walk twice a week. When I walk, I at least complete a mile each time. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 279 pounds. My current weight is 190.1 pounds. Bringing my total weight loss to 88.9 pounds.  

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take
I started my journey on December 6, 2022, and weighed 190.1 on June 22, 2024. So, this transformation took about 18 months. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, I thought about it though. 

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
I’ve learned that there is not a “one size fits all” when it comes to weight loss. I had to do what was best for ME. Going to that personal trainer in 2019 wouldn’t have benefited me in the long run, anyway. At that time, my insulin levels were preventing me from losing weight. I had to find workouts and methods that specifically worked for me and my health condition. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
I’d say do what works best for YOU. People will talk regardless of what you do, so you might as well do what makes you the most happy and what can keep you consistent on your journey. Also, know that elevation requires separation. Do not be surprised at how many “friends” start acting funny when you are no longer the “fat” friend. I experienced this personally. Honestly, I do not miss ANYONE I decided to cut ties with. 

Tayani lost 80 pounds

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Update: Today, we are highlighting Tayani’s journey. Last year, she shared how she lost 80 lbs. Recently, she wrote to update us on her journey. Maintenance can be very challenging, so we love to hear tips and wisdom from ladies who are winning in that phase of the journey.

Tayani before and after weight loss

Social Media:
Instagram: @Transformwithtayani

What is your current weight?
My current weight is 170 pounds.  I have gained a little due to celebrating mine and a few other birthdays. [Down from 248 pounds.]

How have you maintained your weight loss/continued to lose weight?
I’m maintaining my weight by staying as active as possible. I lift weights five days a week, followed by cardio. I’m still on a weight loss journey, and I’ve noticed that eating lower carbs, high fats, and a lot of protein works well for my body.  I occasionally eat out, but I don’t make it a habit.

Looking back on the lessons you’ve learned on your journey, which one stands out the most?
The lesson that stands out the most is having the right mindset. For example, instead of complaining about exercising or eating healthy, I had to continue to tell myself that I get to move my body today and I get to nourish my body with good food.  Sometimes your mind won’t align and I noticed that when I wasn’t in the right mindset, I would binge or hurt my progress. Finding new coping mechanisms other than food helped a lot.

tayani before and after

Would you like to offer any new or different advice to women who want to lose weight?
If you’re just starting your weight loss journey, here are the steps I would abide by.

1. Take accountability for where you are now.

2. Write down triggers, habits, or barriers you need to change to reach your goals.

3. Create a routine you can stick to.

4. Schedule your fitness routine at the same time daily.  Change if needed.

5. Stick to exercises you enjoy.

6. Eat foods you but find healthier options.

7. If you overeat or binge, pick up the next day. You’re not failing. It’s a learning process.

8. Don’t make a specific timeframe for your goals.  Just keep going and enjoy the process.

9. Lastly, please make it into a lifestyle and not a temporary thing where you will only have temporary results.

Deja lost 144 pounds

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Transformation of the Day: Today, we celebrate Deja’s journey. She lost 140 pounds. Her turning point occurred after two doctor’s visits resulted in labs with concerning results, including a diabetes diagnosis. With health as her focus, she decided to have gastric sleeve surgery. She shares some powerful insights in this Q&A.

Deja before and after gastric sleeve

What was your motivation?
I have been overweight for most of my life. I have always been obsessed with my weight, but I was never consistent or realistic about losing weight or how to lose it.

A couple of days before my 33rd birthday, I went in for my yearly routine physical with my primary doctor. All of my lab work came back with red flags! Even worse, I had finally stepped over into diabetes territory. I had been pre-diabetic since high school, but I had finally reached the point where my labs indicated that I was diabetic.

Even worse, I had results from a Pap smear that had come in at the same time, and those results showed abnormal cells. I figured that being overweight and diabetic, along with other health issues, would worsen any other conditions that I may have. 

So that was my motivation, my health. Suddenly, I started having invasive thoughts about my mom having to bury me because my weight would kill me. I developed a real fear of having a heart attack or being bed-bound. Not able to take care of myself. All the other times when I wanted to lose weight, it wasn’t for health reasons. It was for vanity only…Iwanted to look good. But this time was different. I felt like I was actually in a race to save my own life. 

How did you change your eating habits?
At first, my doctor recommended Ozempic. I thought about it, and I couldn’t fathom the idea of taking an injection to lose weight. I’m not consistent when it comes to taking medicine, so I knew that wouldn’t work for me, at least not in the long term. I also had concerns about the long-term effects of the medicine and wondered how long I would have to be on it; was it a temporary solution or a permanent injection? I figured having weight loss surgery would provide a permanent solution, and I wouldn’t have to be concerned with taking medicine for an indefinite amount of time. 

Once I got referred for gastric sleeve, I entered into a strict weight clinic program. It’s a program that bariatric patients in my health system have to enter before they can be “officially” approved for the surgery. It included a regimented diet (low calorie, high protein diet).

About two weeks before the surgery, I was placed on an all-liquid diet. Once the surgery was complete, I had a tiered food schedule. I slowly was able to “re-introduce” myself to food. Because of the work I put in before my surgery, I succeeded with my new food routine. I had already given up all the unhealthy options before my surgery. I’d already written a “Dear John” letter to my old lifestyle. So I was prepared. 

On April 26, 2023, I underwent gastric sleeve surgery. Over the past year, I have lost about 140 pounds. Even now, I still stick to my low-calorie, high-protein food choices.

What is your workout routine?
My workout routine consists of strength training and cardio. I work out about 7/8 times per week. I am a member of a wonderful health & fitness facility in Michigan. It’s called the Michigan Athletic Center, and they offer a wide variety of classes. I love the accountability of being in workout classes and being present with other people who are on a fitness journey. I sometimes take 2-3 classes on certain days. If I am taking a day off work, I may go in for a class or two.

I am always changing up my routine so that my body doesn’t become too comfortable with doing the same things all the time. I like variety. I do Les Mills Body Pump, Les Mills Strength Conditioning, Aerobics classes, Core Training, Walking, and Water Aerobics. Since I work out so intensely, I try to make sure that I am eating enough food. With gastric sleeve, about 85% of my stomach pouch was removed. As such, I am only able to eat about a cup of food. Given my workout routine, it’s imperative that I eat enough calories and protein so that I can keep up. I like to set an alarm for myself so that every 2 hours, I am reminded to eat a meal or snack.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight4
My starting weight was 323 pounds. My current weight is 179 pounds.

What is your height?
My height is 5’5″.

How long did your transformation take?
It took me one year and two months to get where I am now.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that I am stronger than I’ve ever given myself credit for. I was always so beaten down by low self-esteem that I didn’t think that I was ever capable of getting to a point where I could look in the mirror and be happy with the reflection staring back at me.

I’ve learned that the world, unfortunately, treats you differently when you don’t look like what it thinks you should look like. I had to learn that if I was going to be successful on this journey, I needed to find a way to love the person who hated the way that I looked the most: myself. Losing weight is wonderful, but if you don’t deal with the underlying issues that you have with weight and disruptive eating habits or patterns, this journey will be long, hard, and unsuccessful.

What advice would you like to share?
My advice for women who want to lose weight (especially for those who, like me, have been overweight all their lives) is to find your reason why and don’t let it be based on someone else telling you that you must lose weight. Losing weight is something that you have to do on your own terms. Most importantly, losing weight is great, but you must love who you are in its current form. Otherwise, losing weight will not be enough. You’ll always find reasons to dislike yourself, and you’ll either run back to food for comfort or some other vice. 

Pilar lost 210 pounds

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Transformation of the Day: Pilar shares how she lost 210 pounds by working out and making practical changes to her eating habits. She continues to focus on her health, happiness, and breaking generational curses.

Pilar before and after weight loss

Social Media:
Instagram: @ladyp_getsfit

Hi! My name is Pilar, but I go by ‘Lady P‘. I hope my journey, transparency, and story inspire you to be the best version of yourself!

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My motivation was and is still me. Being able to help others is a bonus!

I was taught as a Black woman to give, save, and provide for everyone else in the sacrifice of myself. I later realized the best way to fight injustice and unfairness in life was to fight for myself while being the example I wanted to see in the world. I fight for my health, happiness, and femininity, and to have a soft life & happy ending to my story. I desire this for every woman, no matter her race or position. Life gets better when you prioritize you!

I am aiming to break some serious generational curses for my family and for those who see themselves in me.

How did you change your eating habits?
It started with a mindset change. I watched a bunch of films and read a lot about food and dieting. I learned how food affects us in multiple ways. Learning how to eat to live versus living to eat was a game changer for me!

I started on a keto diet, then went alkaline, then went vegan, and then went vegetarian. Now focus on eating a whole food diet and allow myself a cheat day on occasion. Nowadays, I try to eat to nourish my body, not feel hungry, and get through my workouts.

Pilar before and after

What is your workout routine?
I do a little bit of everything. However, the one thing I do the most is fitness classes (a combination of strength, cardio, and dance). I am motivated to really move, and it doesn’t feel like I’m alone during my workouts. — Depending on the class, group fitness can feel like group personal training which is a plus! 

How often did you work out?
I work out 5 to 6 days a week, anywhere from 1 to 2 hours during those days, while resting on Sundays.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 525 pounds. My current weight is 315 pounds. – I lost a total of 210 pounds so far!

What is your height?
I’m 6’3″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
Roughly, I lost my first 25 pounds in 2019 and kept it off with diet. I got sick in 2020 and was motivated to keep going. I lost another 80 pounds on diet alone.

I hit a big plateau in 2022. As a result, I sought out professional help. Then, I joined a gym and started personal training at 420 lbs. Shoutout to GetFitX in Nashville, TN! They and a few other resources have helped me get down to my current weight (the lowest I have seen on the scale so far was 299 lbs, which is big for me given my PCOS).

I am still on my weight loss journey and don’t plan on stopping until I get rid of all my excess weight and reach the best and healthiest body I can achieve. My weight loss journey has been going on for almost six years now, and I am determined to make this the last year I solely focus on my weight loss. The next steps for me are skin surgery removal and continuing to build my body. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, I am working to lose weight naturally. However, I am not against surgery. I would advise other women to make sure they do their research and understand the risks. Lastly, know that surgery is not an easy way to lose weight. It will be hard, regardless. Do what is best for you!

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
That everything is connected. The concept of weight loss can be viewed as simple, but the application is often more difficult. For example, walking in a gym may be uncomfortable for someone trying to lose weight, not just because they are a bigger person in the gym but because the gym serves as a trigger for them. The experience could take them back when they got teased as a kid for being the chubby kid who was not athletic.

Another example is someone may not realize they struggle with emotional eating because food is how the closest people around them expressed their love to them.

If they lack self-love and support, then sticking to a food regiment will be even more challenging. A weight loss journey is often a healing journey that requires more than just the gym and a diet plan. Having a therapist at difficult times within my own personal journey helped just as much, if not more, than having a trainer.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Find a strong reason “why“ and don’t allow others to influence you to think anything else. In a world where we are encouraged to do whatever we want and what feels good without acknowledging the consequences, it can be very hard to want or try to do better. You could be criticized, looked down upon, and think it’s not worth the hassle.

Your weight loss journey needs to be for you first. Therefore, the decision needs to be yours. Finally, do your best and give it your all, but give yourself grace too. Never make quitting an option. If it is never an option, you won’t fail. Most importantly, keep God close to you on this journey – you definitely won’t lose with him on your side!

 

Lakeida lost 100 pounds

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Transformation of the Day: Lakeida lost 100 pounds by changing her eating habits and working out. For guidance, she reached out to a weight loss/nutrition coach. For inspiration, she focused on the way her body changed over time.

Lakeida before and after weight loss

Social Media: Facebook

Hi, I’m Lakeida Haynes. I’m 45 years old and I want to share my weight loss journey. 

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going even when you wanted to give up?
My motivation was seeing my body slowly transform. Even when I wanted to give up, that made me want to keep going…seeing my body look different when I look in the mirror.

How did you change your eating habits? What foods did you stop or start eating?
First, I reached out to Terry Starks, a certified nutritionist, on Facebook. Next, I stopped eating fried food and snacks like cakes, cookies, pies, and chips (Cheetos). Instead, I started eating more lean meat and all green vegetables and fruits.

What is your workout routine?
My current workout routine is working out twice a day for 40 minutes, doing cardio on the treadmill and stationary exercise bike.

What was your starting weight?
My starting weight was 280 pounds.

What is your current weight?
My current weight is 180 pounds.

What is your height?
I’m 5’5″.

When did you start your journey?
I started my journey on July 10, 2023.

How long did it take your transformation?
It took nine months for my body to transform.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, weight loss surgery is not part of my journey. I did everything naturally by exercising, eating healthy, and making healthy choices.

What is the biggest lesson you learned so far?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is that eating healthy and working out force the body to transform.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
My advice for women who want to lose weight is to contact Terry Starks via email or Facebook. Pray, be consistent, discipline yourself, and let him guide you in the right direction of eating healthy food and making healthy choices.

Disclaimer: Reference or link to any specific product, diet plan, exercise plan or service mentioned in the weight loss stories we share is for the information of our readers, and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Black Women Losing Weight.

Brittany lost 148 pounds

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Transformation of the Day: Brittany lost 148 pounds. With reversing diabetes and increasing her chances of fertility in mind, she decided to take action. She says that making the decision to have VSG surgery has been life changing. 

Brittany before and after

Social Media:
Follow my journey on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook by finding my username: The Bari Baddie. 

My name is Brittany, and I embarked on my weight loss journey motivated by a desire to improve my overall health. 

What was your motivation?
To be honest, my main focus was increasing my chances of fertility. I was also motivated to reverse a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. I wanted to be healthy, and gastric sleeve surgery was a permanent solution to my problem. 

What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
The inspiration came from envisioning a healthier future for myself and those I care about, propelling me forward even when challenges arose.

How did you change your eating habits?
I adopted a balanced approach to transform my eating habits, incorporating nutrient-dense foods and eliminating processed ones. Following a personalized high-protein Bariatric plan helped me stay on track.

What was your workout routine?
In terms of workouts, I engaged in a mix of cardio, weight training, and Zumba weekly. Consistency was key, exercising regularly to achieve my goals.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 284 pounds, and my current weight is 136 pounds. 

When did you begin your weight loss journey? Standing at 5’3″, I began this journey in September 2021, and my transformation continues daily.

Tell us about your decision to have weight loss surgery.
I opted for VSG surgery, a decision made in consultation with medical professionals to support my overall health goals. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made. It truly changed my life. 

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The most significant lesson learned is the importance of patience and persistence. Progress may be gradual, but staying committed yields lasting results.

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
For women aspiring to lose weight, my advice is to set realistic goals, be completely honest with yourself, focus on sustainable changes, and prioritize both physical and mental well-being.

BWLW, Thank you for following my journey and inspiring other black women to get healthy and lose weight for better health.