Since having to stop playing soccer 3-4 times weekly, I became very inactive. I began feeling depressed and very self-conscious. Collectively over the last 3 years, I hit 170 pounds, the heaviest I've ever been. I avoided going to public places unless I absolutely had to. I stopped going shopping because nothing fit me in the stores and every time I looked in the mirror I was disgusted with who I saw looking back at me. I didn't feel good in my own skin. I didn't live like myself anymore. My eating habits went downhill. I thought, "Why eat healthy when I look like this?!" Eating fast food on an almost daily basis, I had really let myself go.
Then one day I hit rock bottom and that was my wake-up call. If I don't change my life now, I will never do it. I was sick of feeling down and sorry for myself. I wanted to be able to look in the mirror and see that beautiful person I knew was locked inside of me finally shine through. Something had to change.
I remember hearing the U Weight Loss™ commercial on the radio. I would hear it five or six times a day. I thought to myself, "How could this be any different from all the other weight loss programs I have tried?" But I said to myself, "Hey, I'll give it a shot. I'll go check this out". That day after work, I phoned to book a healthy weight analysis. I was scared and excited at the same time but when I got to the clinic, I found myself in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.
Although I was skeptical due to other programs not working for me, I went in with an open mind. Much to my surprise, it seemed like the perfect program for me. The benefits of the supplements were explained on how they play a big part in helping your body function more effectively. The coaches educated me on how the program's multivitamins work to replenish your proteins, fats and carbs and taught me sensible eating. This knowledge made me realize how much I was missing out on!
Everything was falling into place and I was overjoyed to join the U Weight Loss™ family. The first week was the hardest and that is exactly what I was told to expect at the beginning. With a lot of support from the U Weight Loss™ coaches, my boyfriend and family, along with my will to succeed, I got through it. The food and meal plans were fantastic. Who knew you could make so many smoothie combos! I constantly felt full, comfortable and satisfied after each meal instead of bloated and tired. I was taught to listen to my body (to stop eating when I'm full). How to better portion meals when going out to eat (you can always take leftovers home).
Before I had joined the program, I suffered with acid reflux and I was taking medication daily. After the second week of the program, I was no longer experiencing any discomfort and, for the first time in two years, I did not need to take my medication. I FELT FREE. And to think it was simply from changing my eating habits.
Over the next few weeks, a clinic opened in my area of the city so I transferred to it. With the amazing support and knowledge from my new coaches, I continued getting closer to my goal weight. I loved the feeling I got every time I went in for coaching. It didn't feel like a chore, or something I had to get over and done with. Coach sessions were a motivational "pick me up" when I needed it and praise when I accomplished a goal. There was never a dull moment. The clinic was lively and filled with positive, fun and outgoing ladies who were always there for you. They truly cared about my success and were there through "high five" and "good cry" times.
I asked one day what I needed to do to be part of the U-Weight Loss clinic and, before I knew it, I had an interview and became part of the U Weight Loss™ team. I wanted to be able to give back and help others to reach their goals and succeed. I wanted to show people how I felt and help them through the ups and downs of their weight loss journey. I wanted them to feel as amazing as I did on the program; to truly feel successful in all they were doing, and especially what they were doing to better themselves.
One month after I began working at U Weight Loss™, I reached my goal weight of 140 pounds! Even though I was now an employee, the positive support and praise ware constantly shown by the clinic staff. I was able to share many of my clients' successes and achievements; see them reach their goals and help them on their journey to Maintenance. It is bittersweet to see one's clients go because you have gone through so much together, but, at the same time, you are so proud of them and their accomplishments. Knowing that they can do it on their own is the best reward of all.
This has been an amazing journey for me. I have maintained my goal weight for the past 8 months without stress or difficulty. With the knowledge I've gained, I've learned to eat balanced meals and have portion control. I no longer feel tired, bloated and sluggish. I feel energized, sexy and full of confidence and ready to take on life's challenges and enjoy every day to the fullest. Food should not control your life. Break through and become a healthier, happier U!