Transforming My Life: How I Lost 100 Pounds After Pregnancy

In 2013, after the birth of my first child, I weighed 245 pounds. Despite being a yo-yo dieter for years, losing and regaining the same 20-40 pounds since I was 12, this time was different. I found myself facing the challenge of needing to shed over 100 pounds. After experiencing gestational diabetes, I realized the urgency of reaching a healthy weight to prevent the development of type two diabetes post-pregnancy.

It took me 25 years, but I finally discovered the secret to losing weight and keeping it off for good. I learned to ditch the fad diets that had previously failed me and instead focused on nourishing my body with real food. My journey culminated in April 2017 when I achieved my goal of losing 100 pounds just a year after my second pregnancy. Here, I will share the five daily habits that helped me achieve this incredible transformation.

It's essential to understand that my journey was not just about losing weight; it was about adopting a healthier lifestyle that I could maintain for the long haul. Each habit contributed significantly to my success and can help anyone looking to make a change in their life as well. Let’s dive into the key practices that made a difference in my weight loss journey!

Embracing a Healthy Morning Routine

One of the first habits I adopted was to begin every day with a healthy activity. Initially, my mornings were spent on the elliptical, but as my life evolved, I transitioned to walking or resistance training. This commitment to morning workouts set a positive tone for my entire day.

According to Dr. Andrew Huberman, establishing healthy habits within the first eight hours of waking is crucial. By prioritizing exercise in the morning, I avoided excuses later in the day when fatigue or busyness might derail my intentions. Finding a morning routine that works for you is essential to kickstart your day on a positive note!

Centering Meals Around Protein

Another significant shift I made was to center my meals around protein. This change was vital for my weight loss journey. Protein is the most filling macronutrient, which means including it in every meal not only keeps you satisfied but also helps regulate overall calorie intake.

Skipping carb-heavy breakfasts like donuts and cereals in favor of protein-rich options made a huge difference. When I started my day with high-protein meals, I noticed fewer cravings and better blood sugar control throughout the day. This approach allowed me to maintain a calorie deficit without feeling deprived.

Ditching Processed Foods

Swapping out heavily processed junk foods for whole foods was a game changer. While processed foods are convenient, they often contain empty calories that can sabotage weight loss efforts. I focused on consuming about 80 to 90 percent of my diet from wholesome sources like fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and dairy.

This shift not only improved my nutrition but also curbed cravings for unhealthy snacks. If I craved something processed, I would save it for the end of the day, ensuring I had already nourished my body with healthy options first. This method made it easier to enjoy treats without overindulging.

Tracking Every Meal

I also found success by diligently tracking every meal I consumed. While I had previously tracked sporadically, committing to this practice helped me stay accountable. Tracking ensured that I was not only aware of what I was eating but also how it aligned with my weight loss goals.

Even on challenging days, such as weekends or holidays, I made it a point to estimate my calorie intake. This strategy prevented small indulgences from accumulating into significant setbacks. By keeping a record of my meals, I was able to identify patterns and make necessary adjustments to stay on track.

Overcoming the 'All or Nothing' Mentality

The last habit that transformed my relationship with food was quitting the 'all or nothing' mindset. I used to fall into the trap of thinking that if I made one mistake in my diet, I might as well give up for the day. This mentality kept me stuck in a cycle of yo-yo dieting.

By learning to forgive myself for slip-ups and getting back on track immediately, I could maintain progress without feeling guilty. It’s important to recognize that one misstep doesn’t ruin all your hard work. Instead, it’s about making consistent, healthy choices over time.

Final Thoughts on My Weight Loss Journey

My journey to losing 100 pounds has been a life-changing experience. It's about more than the number on the scale; it’s about creating sustainable habits that support a healthier lifestyle. By focusing on nutritious foods, tracking my meals, and maintaining a positive mindset, I’ve been able to transform my life.

For anyone on a similar journey, remember that progress takes time, and it’s okay to have setbacks. What matters is your commitment to getting back on track and making choices that align with your goals. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small, and keep pushing forward!