THE FAT KID IN CLASS
Since childhood, I endured relentless teasing and felt defined by my weight. It affected my self esteem, causing my own focus on being overweight leading to further adoption of bad habits. But now, I focus on my future by understanding where I want to be and why.
My Journey Of Self-Discovery and Personal Transformation.
40 YEARS OF DIETING & WEIGHT-LOSS ATTEMPTS
Throughout adulthood, I found myself constantly on diets or berating myself for not being on one. It was a cycle of strict, all-in dieting followed by setbacks. The problem was my all-or-nothing mindset, which fueled yo-yo dieting. I've learned that seeking rapid weight loss, with the underlying expectation of returning to old habits is a key driver in this cycle
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MAKING MY OWN LUCK
In January 2020, weighing 343 pounds, I aimed to lose 15 pounds. By reducing sugar intake and calories, I lost 30 pounds instead. Considering surgery, the pandemic disrupted plans. Closed establishments reduced temptation, and I started riding an e-bike. After a frustrating talk with the surgeon, I decided against surgery. Months later I realized I was creating my own luck. I was back in the ring, but this time I had the right mindset to find success on my weight loss journey.
DESPERATE TIMES, DESPERATE MEASURES
Weighing over 300 pounds, every aspect of life was difficult. I struggled to walk and climb stairs and even had to use a seatbelt extender on flights. Seeing my overweight mother's struggles, I felt hopeless and decided that bariatric surgery, specifically a gastric bypass, was my only salvation.
NAVIGATING THE HOOPS OF BARIATRIC SURGERY
Bariatric surgery requires numerous tests, regular check-ups, and the guidance of a nutritionist. They emphasized the challenges post-surgery and the ongoing restrictions. The nutritionist also highlighted the need to lose 15 pounds prior to insurance approval, changing my perspective on weight loss and the hidden sugars in protein shakes.
FAT PETE IS DEAD
My weight loss journey evolved into adopting a lifelong healthy lifestyle rather than being on a temporary diet. Despite facing plateaus and relapses, I exceeded my goals, and even took nutrition coaching training. By the end of it, I achieved a weight of 185 pounds and realized that my experience could inspire and help others, including you!