Weight Loss Success Stories - Rachael Lost 80 Pounds

First Name: Rachael
Age: 36
Family Status: Married
Occupation: Homemaker and volunteer classroom aide
Hometown: Delaware
Pounds or Inches Lost: I have lost 80 pounds and went from size 18-20 to 4-5!
Height: 5'6"
Waist: 26.5"
Starting Weight: 235 pounds
Current Weight: 155 pounds

Rachael's Weight Loss Story!

When did you become unhappy with your weight?

I was always bigger than my siblings and my peers. I didn't think I could do anything about it. I let myself believe that I was just the "big girl" or the "thick" one in the family!

What made you decide to lose weight?

I was noticing how hard it was to keep up with my healthy husband and two boys. I also realized that my chances were much higher than other family members of being diagnosed with certain diseases. It was time to stop killing myself with an unhealthy lifestyle.

What were the most important changes you made to lose weight?

I had to educate myself about healthy living! I quickly realized how many of us don't understand proper nutrition and basics about our metabolism. I kept a food journal for the first 8-10 months of my journey. I cleaned out my kitchen of the junk food and looked for healthier versions of my favorite recipes. I stopped telling myself "I can't" and said "I can" or "I will" from that point on!

What was most challenging about losing weight?

Surprisingly, the number of people who tried to discourage me. I was mentally ready for the challenge and thought some of these people would support me. But that's okay, I still had support at home and from a couple of friends.

How long did it take you to start to see results?

I felt better and even slept better within weeks. I couldn't see changes until a month or two though. My clothes were very loose when I started dropping sizes!

How long did it take for you to reach your current weight?

It took 10-11 months.

How long have you maintained your weight loss and how do you do it?

I've been maintaining since March 2011, so 1 year. I changed my lifestyle and its hard for me to go back to old ways! I have better options in my fridge and I know approximately how many calories I am taking in. Before, I never knew how many calories a woman of my age and frame should be taking in. Ignorance doesn't help anyone! I am active now and enjoy walking and hiking with my family. I work out at the gym a couple times a week too.

How has your life changed now that you've lost weight?

I enjoy our outings as a family now. Vacationing is even more enjoyable since I'm energetic. I shop where I want and don't feel embarrassed to take photos. My joints don't ache like they used to and I can do whatever I want without feeling out of breath. It feels like a new life!

How did ShapeFit help you reach your weight loss goals?

I love reading everyone's success stories and tips on ShapeFit. The website also shows a variety of people with different shapes and goals. We're not all the same but we can all strive to be OUR best! I'm glad I discovered websites like ShapeFit.com with their fitness tools and weight loss stories to keep me motivated!

Rachael's Weight Loss Tips!

Weight loss tip #1:

Learn about fitness and nutrition!

Weight loss tip #2:

Eat a "cleaner" diet full of fruits, veggies, and whole grains. But don't forget to treat yourself!

Weight loss tip #3:

Take photos and be honest with yourself about how you look!

Weight loss tip #4:

Drink water and green tea to keep sodium flushed out of your system!

Weight loss tip #5:

Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity a few times weekly. It doesn't have to be in a gym or formalized setting. Work in your yard, dance or jump rope. Just do something and go at it hard!

Rachael's Weight Loss Eating Plan!

Breakfast:

My own breakfast burrito made with a whole grain tortilla, 1 egg and lots of veggies. Or, I have some oatmeal with fruit or whatever the family is eating. Just watch the portions!

Lunch:

A salad from Saladworks, veggie delight from Subway or I'll make my own sandwich or veggie wrap. I use three layer hummus from Trader Joe's on the wrap and add lots of fresh veggies.

Dinner:

Wow, that could be anything! I cook almost every night and we're all foodies in my family. I have to make a variety of meals. I eat whatever but I make sure to cook with olive oil and do a lot of grilling and baking now. I don't use white sugar, white flour, or white pasta. I stay away from frozen and processed foods so I can tell what I'm eating!

Snacks or Mini Meals:

An apple with peanut butter. Veggies with hummus. Some granola bars (be careful about the ingredients). Oh, and if I want a cookie then I have it! Denying myself makes me want to binge on it. I don't keep it in the house so I have to go out to a store to buy a small serving of what treat I'm craving.

Rachael's Weight Loss Workouts!

Weight Training:

I weight train 3 times a week at the gym for 30 minutes. I use weight machines and free weights to keep my metabolism revved up and to increase my body tone.

Cardiovascular:

I do cardio for 30-60 minutes per workout which consists of a walk or jog in the park or I do the elliptical machine, dance or do water aerobics in the gym. I strive to workout 4-5 times a week!

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