My confidence is back
Katie, 26
Height: 5ft 4ins
Weight before: 11st 3lbs
Weight after: 9st 1lbs
Her mum joined up first and motivated Katie to join the programme too. By doing this they gave each other support and encouragement throughout their journeys. Since changing her job she had stopped doing as much walking and had gained about half a stone. Katie knew she needed to change her eating habits for good.
Katie tells us how she lost 2 stone 2lbs and changed her life.
What diet plan did you follow?
I followed the Gi diet plan.
Have you previously tried any other diets and were they successful?
No, I was never really bothered by my weight in the past. But this diet was non-restrictive and it helped me to make lifestyle changes too.
What weight and clothes size were you before you joined us?
I was 11st 3lbs, size 12-14 and now I’m 9st 1lb, size 8-10.
Did you lose any inches?
Yes, I lost lots of inches including 6 from my waist and thighs.
What made you decide to join us?
Due to my job role change I wasn’t getting much exercise and slowly gained weight. I was no longer fitting into my size 12 clothes and I decided it was time to do something about it.
Tell us about your diet before you joined us, and how it has changed as a result?
Beforehand I was very haphazard when it came to buying groceries. After work if there was nothing in the fridge I would head next door to the Chinese. The meal plans stopped all that. They also saved me money, because I wasn’t eating as many take-aways and there wasn’t as much wastage.
Was your weight causing you any problems?
I wasn't able to fit into a size 12 which made me feel overweight and knocked my confidence. Before losing weight I wouldn’t wear certain clothes because I didn’t like what I saw. Now, I don’t really care what people think.
What difference has losing weight made to you?
It has improved my fitness and given me a massive confidence boost. I wouldn't say I was unhappy before, but now I feel like I am the weight I should be and I am not embarrassed of my body anymore. My Mum and I have done the diet together and now we go clothes shopping together as well.
Have you enjoyed the diet plan?
I am not one for joining groups and getting support online. Once I decided I was doing the diet I stuck to it, allowing myself the odd treat. The meal plans and the shopping list were the keys to my success. Knowing what I would be eating for the week stopped me buying unhealthy foods.
How have your family and friends reacted to your weight loss?
My Mum is very proud, as I am of her. The rest of my family and my partner think it's great too. Friends, especially ones I haven't seen for a while, have noticed the change and can't believe I have lost 2 stone.
What part has exercise played in helping you to lose weight?
I'm not a massive fan of exercise but in the early days I went to the gym 2-3 times a week and it certainly helped me reach my weekly target. Now, I feel a lot healthier and my fitness has improved.
How do you feel about your weight loss?
I have stopped eating out of boredom and eating unhealthily because it's quick. I have always loved most vegetables and foods so the diet wasn't a shock to my system. It was making me do what I knew I should be doing. I am proud of getting rid of my muffin top and I feel confident enough to wear shorter skirts. Asking for a smaller size when trying on clothes is a new luxury too.
Do you feel confident about maintaining your weight loss?
I try to keep to the same mindset as I had when losing the weight - stay away from foods that have no nutritional value. But you have to have the odd treat.
Any other information, tips or comments you would like to give?
It hasn't been a diet as such, but more of a lifestyle change and if you can accept that then you will lose weight and achieve your goals.