My name is Lynn S. Mizell (lynns.b_), and I’m 46 years old. I’m from Atlanta, Georgia, and I work as a startup program administrator. After gaining weight after baby and then jojo diet, I decided to connect my health and lose weight with the keto diet and to lose weight.
I first gained weight after the birth of my daughter in 2001. I was not committed to losing baby weight, and I also love delicious food. So I would lose 10 to 12 pounds and then gain it back by eating too much too much. It was a vicious cycle in which I was trapped for years.
In 2003, a colleague introduced me to the Atkins diet. I lost 40 pounds by following it and walking every day. But two years later I had surgery on my foot and was out of work for two months. Unfortunately, I returned to my old eating habits and could not walk for months. I regained the £ 40, plus more.
In June 2018, I reached my highest weight of 241 pounds, and it was clear.
I saw photos of myself and realized that I do not look like me. I decided to actually lose weight (and keep it off). I purchased a scale, running shoes and a large Yeti cup. I started the next morning and just stuck with it.
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I was interested in trying the keto diet.
I decided it would be a great option based on all the people I saw and who had consistent results, and the fact that it made so many options for food choices possible. But it took me three tries to really hold on.
Keto initially made me feel sluggish and creepy. But in July 2018, I started it again, but was equipped with more knowledge and a better understanding of the science of diet. I also read that the previous lethargy could have been the result of low electrolytes and dehydration.
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To counteract this, I started drinking a shot of pickle juice with my MCT oil once a day. I also implemented the use of ketone test strips. Once I had ketosis, I tested every morning. For me, it was very motivating to see that I had ketosis, and it was the fuel I needed to commit to another wonderful day. In general, the best thing about keto for me is that I never feel restricted or trapped in a routine when I go out to eat.
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This is what I usually eat one day now.
- Breakfast: Boiled eggs, cheese and water
- Lunch: Baked chicken, salad and yogurt
- Snacks: Pepperoni, cheese and olives
- Dinner: Taco salad with southwestern salad dressing, sliced cucumbers and tomatoes
I immediately started walking. The first two weeks I walked two miles, six days a week.
I then increased the distance and six days a week averaged between three and five miles a day. I chose to walk because it was a way to give myself faster and longer distances. If I walk, my husband will also join me regularly. Being able to enjoy that time with him while also burning calories is a win-win!
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These two changes made the biggest difference in my weight loss results.
- I gave myself grace. The key for me was to allow myself a little grace and space – grace to make mistakes and room for the number to go up a little without being compulsive. And space to like the food and drink I like without feeling guilty. The first three months I was very strict with my approach. However, I knew that if I wanted to maintain this way of eating, I could not stay so strict.
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- I created a cardio workout. I have always loved hiking and knew it was an activity I could keep up with. My husband also bought me an elliptical brand, so if we could not walk outside, I would be able to use the machine.
Overall, I lost 78 pounds in two years and months. I got a little back for a period with the pandemic.
I continued my weight loss until COVID-19. Because I was in the house with my husband and daughter while working remotely, I cut and baked all too often and I took back eight pounds. But when I reconnected my goals, I lost 15 pounds again. It is not about perfection, but about progress.
Losing weight enabled me to resume a more active lifestyle, and gave me the freedom to worry about my health. The best advice I would give to other women is to make their health and happiness a priority. Plan time to exercise and be aware of what you are eating, what makes you feel good and energetic. If you are reading this and ready to get started, remember that you are worth the investment.
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