Read on to discover my weight loss story of how I lost 100 pounds with healthy eating and simple lifestyle changes.
For most of my life, I struggled with my weight. I tried every fad diet and exercise program out there, but nothing seemed to stick. After my child was born, my weight gain only accelerated. My unhealthy eating habits, stressful job, and sedentary lifestyle left me feeling physically sick and unhappy.
By the summer of 2014, I was at my breaking point. Weighing in at 264 pounds, I started to experience serious health issues, including back pain, knee pain, shortness of breath, and high blood pressure. I felt depressed and unhappy. I knew I needed to make a change but I didn't know where to start.
The change
I didn't want to go on another temporary diet or weight loss program. I wanted a permanent change in my lifestyle. I wanted to live a healthy and happy life, so I started learning about healthy food and experimenting with healing spices. I cut out all processed meat, unhealthy refined sugars, and store-bought food.
Instead, I focused on eating real food – fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods. It was a drastic change, but I knew it was the only way to regain control of my life.
In addition to changing my diet, I also started walking, doing yoga, and leading a more active lifestyle. It wasn't easy at first, but I pushed through the pain and fatigue. After six months, I started to feel amazing. I had more energy, and I began losing weight.
The result
Over the course of a year and a half, I lost over 110 pounds. But for me, the biggest accomplishment was my complete lifestyle change. I am a healthier and happier person today. Healthy eating is not just a short-term diet; it's a lifestyle. I eat natural, fresh food that nourishes my body and gives me energy. I eat in moderation and mindfully, enjoying every bite.
The "side effect" of my healthy lifestyle was weight loss and feeling better overall. People started to take notice and asked me how I managed to improve my life so drastically. I decided to start a blog to share my story and everything I learned along the way. It wasn't just another food blog with recipes; I shared my experience, tips, and guidelines on how to eat healthy and feel awesome.
Today, I feel like a different person. I have more confidence and energy, and I am grateful for the healthy body I have. It wasn't easy to get here, but it was worth it.
Eating healthily involves consuming fresh, natural foods that are nutritionally dense and nourish your body, providing the energy it needs. It also entails eating foods that cleanse and protect the body. Healthy eating is also about eating mindfully and with intention, in moderation.
If you're struggling with your weight and overall health, know that it is possible to make a change. Start small, make gradual changes, and focus on progress, not perfection. With healthy eating and a more active lifestyle, you can transform your life and become the best version of yourself.
Read more
5 Simple Diet Tweaks That Will Improve Your Health
How To Stop Sugar Cravings For Good
5 Weight Loss Tips That Really Works
Walking For Weight Loss And Better Health
Ways To Live Healthy With A Busy Schedule
Jorie says
Hello!!
I read through each of your comments and your long one about different things you do as far as eating. I have lost some weight, but I'd like to lose some more. About how long did it take you to lose at least 30-40 pounds?
Also, your story is absolutely amazing!!
Alexis says
Im currently 254 pounds after having my second child. I am not used to being this big and I really want to lose this weight and eat better. Can you give me an example of some healthy meals because im not sure where to start.. Also did you work out at all?
Natalie says
Hi Alexis,
I'll tell you few things I've changed that helped me with my weight loss. Today:
I eat minimally processed foods - I don't eat store bought stuff like dips, dressings, microwave dinners, cake mixes, etc. I make everything I can HOMEMADE. That way I control ingredients I use.
I eat lots of fruits (1-2 portions daily) and vegetables (minimum 2 portions daily), I eat seasonally and I shop locally grown food as much as I can.
I consume only healthy fats - extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, flaxseed oil, etc.
I don’t eat processed meats (salami, store bought sausages, pâté, etc.).
I don’t consume refined sugars and white flour produce (EVER).
I eat high-quality lean protein (chicken, turkey meat, tuna, etc.) and watch the intake of unnecessary fats (for example, I drink low-fat cow's milk, I eat cottage cheese, I remove chicken skin etc.).
I eat whole wheat produce that is full of fibers and enriched with other nutrients (whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta...)
I prepare my own meals. That way I control what I put in my body.
I use a lot of spices that contribute to my health – ginger, turmeric, ceylon cinnamon, etc.
I don’t drink store bought soda drinks and juices (EVER).
I eat healthy homemade snacks (energy balls, trail mixes..).
I prepare my own desserts made from healthy ingredients (whole wheat flour, healthy coconut oil instead of margarine or butter, honey or syrup instead of white refined sugar). You can check DESSERTS section on my blog HERE >> http://www.natalieshealth.com/category/recipes/desserts/
I eat several smaller but well-balanced meals a day.
I eat mindfully.
I’m more active. I do a lot of walking. I practice yoga and I run.
Just remember, it's a process. It takes time. Following this healthy lifestyle is pretty easy you just need to make all this a HABIT.
It's VERY important that you incorporate ONE healthy change at the time, not trying to do all at once. Start with replacing refined all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour in everyday cooking. Try drinking water, unsweetened teas and coffee instead sodas. Try using honey and healthier sugar alternatives instead refined white sugar. Try with 5-6 smaller meals during the day and fill your plate with veggies in every meal.
And most important DON'T give up when time gets hard. Be persistent. Set a goal - to be HEALTHIER, to FEEL BETTER!
If you have any health problems or condition, PLEASE consider talking to your doctor first :)
Hope this helps.
Tanya says
Amazing! I am trying to lose weight myself and I have been struggling a lot lately. Eating healthy is not the problem for me, I do eat healthy meals and I love them. The problem is not eating the bad foods as well... How did you manage to stay away from those? I mean, as much as I love a good healthy meal, I still have my chocolate cravings!
Natalie says
Thank you Tanya :)
Well, the first three months were the hardest. I was like an addict going trough cold-turkey phase. In that time, when I had cravings for certain food, like chocolate, I just prepared myself some healthy replacement - - a healthy food swap - like the chocolate avocado mousse with unsweetened defatted cocoa with a bit of honey. I satisfied my craving for chocolate, and I give my body a healthy stuff too - like healthy fats from avo, honey for immunity... ;) That worked for me.
After 3 months, addiction has passed. Now I don't even notice chocolate in the store anymore :D If I eat some unhealthy stuff, I get physically sick (I spend like a half day in the bathroom :/ ) so I say "thank you but no thanks" to unhealthy processed full of refined sugar food.
Just stick to healthy food, be persistent and do healthy replacement - healthy food swap. And yes, try to be moderate ;) I'll write more about that in my future posts :)
Tanya says
Thanks so much for your reply. So you actually ate chocolate, but in a healthier form? Hmm.. I could try that. Thanks! I hope I'll be where you are someday. ?
Natalie says
Yes, I use unsweetened defatted cocoa. You can make all sorts of healthy desserts with it ;)