Name: Amanda
Age: 33
Family Status: Married with 2 children
Occupation: Registered Nurse
Location: Washington, New Jersey
Height: 5’8″
Waist: 29.5″
Starting Weight: 250 pounds
Current Weight: 140 pounds
Pounds or Inches Lost: I lost 110 pounds, 56 inches and went from a size 22 to a size 4!
Amanda’s Weight Loss Story!
When did you become unhappy with your weight?
After the birth of my 2nd son, I had a lot of trouble losing the weight I had gained from both of my pregnancies, and kind of just gave up and dealt with the fact that I was going to be heavy.
What made you decide to lose weight?
September of 2013, when my 6-year-old son made a comment. He asked why I had 3 sets of “boobs”, meaning my breasts, my middle roll and my lower roll. It was then that I decided to do something about it, and have not looked back since then.
What were the most important changes you made to lose weight?
I made a complete lifestyle change that consisted of changing to a clean eating lifestyle. I do not eat processed food, white flour, refined sugar or food with added sugar. I now eat 5-6 small meals per day spaced 2.5 to 3.5 hours apart, instead of eating 3 large meals per day.
What was most challenging about losing weight?
I truthfully think that the hardest thing to overcome was myself. As with most people, I was my own worst enemy. I also learned I was too important to give up on myself. After only a few weeks everything was like second nature to me.
How long did it take you to start to see results?
My first weigh in, which was a week after I started I had already lost 10 pounds. After that it was about 3-4 weeks until I really noticed my pants were fitting much looser.
How long did it take for you to reach your current weight?
It took me 1 year, from September 2013 to September 2014 to lose the weight.
How long have you maintained your weight loss and how do you do it?
I have been consistently maintaining my weight since September 2014. The most important factor that helps me is staying true to a clean eating lifestyle.
What keeps you motivated to continue your weight loss success?
Being healthy for my children is my biggest motivator. Secondly, the fact that I have multiple sclerosis and I have had great improvement since changing my lifestyle.
How has your life changed now that you’ve lost weight?
I am much more comfortable in my own skin. I now take pride in myself and my appearance. I have been told by many people that I am an inspiration to them and have helped others lose weight. I have also been a guest on the Dr. Oz Show talking about my weight loss journey.
Do you have any advice for others who are trying to lose weight?
Understand that it may not be easy but it is possible. Weight loss takes hard work, determination, sweat and sometimes tears but just don’t give up.
How did ShapeFit help you reach your weight loss goals?
I have read many articles on ShapeFit.com for exercise tips and recipes.
Amanda’s Weight Loss Tips!
Weight loss tip #1:
Never give up.
Weight loss tip #2:
It is okay to cheat every once in a while but just get right back on track.
Weight loss tip #3:
Find a low glycemic index protein shake without any artificial sweeteners.
Weight loss tip #4:
Detox from sugar! It is the #1 substance in the United States that Americans are addicted to.
Weight loss tip #5:
Stay away from artificial sweeteners, they actually can lead to weight gain instead of weight loss.
Amanda’s Weight Loss Eating Plan!
Breakfast:
A protein shake with unsweetened almond milk, all natural peanut butter and a banana or an egg white omelette with peppers, onions, turkey, and Swiss cheese.
Lunch:
A salad with lots of vegetables and grilled chicken.
Dinner:
A lean protein such as baked chicken with a fresh vegetable and whole grain rice or bulgur wheat.
Snacks or Mini Meals:
Fruit with a protein such as apple with peanut butter. A Kind bar which is an all natural nut and granola bar.
Nutritional Supplements:
Daily multivitamin, vitamin D, daily protein shake called Shakeology.
Amanda’s Weight Loss Workouts!
Weight Training:
I do at-home workout videos such as T25, and PiYo.
Cardiovascular:
I run 2-3 times per week for usually about 2 to 3 miles.
