Lost 11.8kgs and 14.80% body weight
I first joined Healthy Inspirations in 2011, achieved my goal and was able to keep my weight under control for many years. However, in 2018 my husband and I moved into a retirement village and it was a big lifestyle change, and quite traumatic. Moving into a two-bedroom apartment from a house called for drastic downsizing and letting go of cherished items inherited and collected over many years.
After settling in we quickly became involved in village activities and resident committees as it is a very vibrant and social community that we wanted to be a part of. Some of these activities included happy hours, cabarets, floor parties and many of which include wine tastings.
The retirement village also has its own restaurant/café, so it was easy to eat “out” delicious meals without having to cook. Unfortunately, one had to walk past the café displaying beautiful cakes and pastries to get to the letterbox/office so I would send my husband to collect the mail as the temptation was just too great as sweet cakes are my downfall!
I unfortunately regained my weight with this change of lifestyle.
In February 2023 I decided to rejoin Healthies and managed to lose 12 kg within a year, including a decision to steer clear of alcohol for 6 months which was very difficult with all the temptations around me. I also have a back condition which prevents me from resistance exercising so I needed to focus solely on the eating plan and gentle walking.
To shift the weight (and keep it off) I am in a good routine of using my food planner and write what I eat (or plan to eat) in it daily as it is a constant reminder to stick to the plan as much as I can. I use the protein shakes (Strawberry Shaken Jamaican is my favourite) for my snacks and I find the weekly nutrition check-ins help keep me on track. The encouragement from the coaches and team at Healthies, as well as my family and friends helped keep me motivated.
I am still involved in the many activities and events in the village but a strong will to keep my weight off long-term, as well as encouragement from my Healthies coaches, my husband and friends means I have been able to maintain my goal weight for over a year now. Before a village event or dining out at a restaurant I sometimes have a small salad. That way I am not so hungry and will probably have just an entree size meal. I specifically choose a meal with minimal, or no carbohydrates i.e. avoid bread, pasta, rice, potato/chips. I also drink mineral water, or I try to only have one glass of wine and will add mineral water to it, so it lasts longer.
My Top 3 Healthy Inspirations tips:
- Understand which foods don’t agree with you or could undo all your good achievements. Either stay clear or have minimal amounts occasionally as a treat.
- An exercise regime is important not only to tone your body but for good health and fitness.
- Still enjoy life.