Saturday October 22, 2011 | 7:57 PM
7 years ago, I lost 117 pounds with a well-known weight loss program. Unfortunately, I didn't develop habits that would keep the weight off.
During that time, I finished college to become a nurse practitioner. Very stressful! With kids and their homework, homework of my own, it was easy to drive through various fast food drive thru's and not have to clean up much afterward. I was drinking coffee in the morning and 32 oz. diet sodas ALL DAY. I suffered daily headaches, irritability, depression, and anxiety, and irritable bowel-type symptoms.
I gained 100 pounds back. I found my blood pressure elevated and my lipid panel out of sorts. I'm only 37! I refused to let those habits lead me to the inevitable diabetes! And what am I teaching my children? Not to mention, how could I possibly counsel my own patients on diet and exercise when I am obese and unhealthy too? I have to walk the walk!
I have lost 62 pounds and 42 inches. I have so much energy, I exercise daily, I am running and lifting weights. I sleep better, my skin looks amazing and my hair and nails grow like weeds. Yes, everyone notices the weight loss, but my skin, hair and nails get complimented just as much. ...YUCK! They don't even taste the same.
So...it's Clean Eating for me...habits I can continue for the rest of my life...a much healthier, happer life!