Name: Annie
Age: 52
Family Status: Married mother of four
Occupation: Nurse
Hometown: New Iberia, Louisiana
Height: 5’1″
Starting Weight: 300 pounds
Current Weight: 110 pounds
Current Waist Size: 26″
Annie’s Weight Loss Interview!
How much did you lose (pounds, inches, dress/pants size)?
I lost 190 pounds and went from a size 5x to a size 2/4!
When did you become unhappy with your weight (were you overweight as a child or did you gain weight as an adult)?
My weight was always up and down but in 2009 I climbed to over 300 pounds.
What made you decide to lose weight?
I developed cardiac problems and had to use a motorized wheelchair in public because my legs could not hold my weight and would frequently buckle. I lived in fear of dying and leaving my husband alone to raise our four children. I was ashamed of myself and would try to stay at home where no one could see me.
What were the most important changes you made to lose weight?
I started eating 1,200 calories daily and as soon as my body was able, I started exercising.
What was the most challenging thing you had to deal with during your weight loss journey?
The hardest part was actually getting started.
How long did it take you to start to see results?
Within a month! Not only did I see results but others started telling me also.
How long did it take for you to reach your current weight?
In less than two years I lost 190 pounds and have maintained my weight loss for over five years.
How long have you maintained your weight loss and what are the most important factors for keeping it off?
I have maintained my weight loss for over five years. The most important things are clean eating and exercising six days a week.
What keeps you motivated to continue your weight loss success?
I’m really alive now! I’m healthy, fit and happy. I will continue this for the rest of my life because I never want to be that sick, depressed, obese person again.
How has your life changed now that you have lost weight?
How hasn’t it changed? I’m very active, agile, healthy, happy and free!
Do you have any advice for others who are trying to lose weight?
I have tons of advice to give others on their weight loss journey but my main message is to never ever give up on yourself.
How did ShapeFit help you reach your weight loss goals?
ShapeFit’s motivational weight loss stories. If they could do it, why not me?
Annie’s Weight Loss Tips!
Weight Loss Tip #1:
Eat a clean diet that’s low in carbs and high in protein.
Weight Loss Tip #2:
Move! Find an exercise program that you enjoy and stick with it while always challenging yourself to increase the endurance and intensity.
Weight Loss Tip #3:
Proper hydration. Forget the sodas and drink plenty of water.
Weight Loss Tip #4:
Make sleep a priority.
Weight Loss Tip #5:
Remain focused. Keep your eyes on the prize and focus on achieving a healthy and fit life.
Annie’s Weight Loss Eating Plan!
What do you normally eat for breakfast?
Egg whites and turkey bacon.
What do you normally eat for lunch?
I love grilled chicken salads but I skip the dressing.
What do you normally eat for dinner?
I love fish, chicken breast and turkey breast. I’m a huge fan of sweet potatoes, spaghetti squash, broccoli and green beans.
What do you normally eat for snacks?
Fruits and almonds are great snacks.
What type of nutritional supplements do you take?
Multivitamins.
Annie’s Weight Loss Workouts!
What do you do for weight training (exercises, workouts)?
I lift weights 3-4 times a week.
What do you do for cardio training (exercises, workouts)?
I power walk or run a 5K about five times a week.
7 Comments
Congrats! You did a great job. Keep it up!
Hi Annie, thank you so much for sharing your story. I will be 51 in November and I find that the majority of weight loss stories on ShapeFit – although invaluable no matter what age the subject is – are by people under the age of 50. It’s encouraging to read about the success of someone in my age group. I really appreciate you taking the time to inspire people like me!
Great job Annie! I have a question, what did you do about all the loose skin? Did it tighten back up with exercise? I need to lose weight and I’m worried about having any loose skin.
I am wondering about any loose skin issues you may have had after the weight loss.
Your story is so inspirational, especially in reminding myself to never give up!
Red pepper may seem like an unlikely tool for weight loss but it’s actually a good idea to keep a shaker of red pepper on hand. Red pepper is known to curb appetite for hours after consumption. It also is known to create a thermic effect on the body that causes it to metabolize fat faster.
Hi Annie – I just read your story. Thanks so much for being real about it all. My problem is that I want to lose weight, but have no git up and go to do it. Can you suggest any help?