Success Story #41

Name: J. Acosta
Location: JFK Medical Center. Atlantis, FL
Improvement: 15+ lbs Weight Loss
Time: 3 Months
Program: 2010 Total Transformation Challenge

The Transformation Challenge was an incredible experience! Throughout these 12 weeks I have achieved several personal goals for myself and have interpreted those learning experiences to family and friends. The biggest challenge for myself was eating patterns and choices. I enjoy food, eating out and trying new food experiences. I have found throughout my busy days with my children and work, I did not eat breakfast, ate an unhealthy snack in the afternoon, then once my kids were in bed or I was home from a busy work day, then I could relax and eat....often eating after 9pm.
 
I was able to retrain myself to eat breakfast, snack accordingly, have a healthy yet fulfilling lunch, continue to snack and eat a proportional size dinner consisting more of fresh vegetables than carbs. I have also become self conscious of my food choices. I eat a healthy balanced diet the majority of the time, but continue to enjoy eating out with friends and family occasionally.
 
I finally noticed the weight loss about 6-7 weeks into the program, although I received compliments along the way. I stayed focus and determined and when I went through my closet and couldn’t find anything to fit me...it was finally a "good" thing!
 
Seeing the weight loss, feeling more energetic, having an increased self-esteem has continued to motivate me through this program and will continue to motivate me as I continue my journey. I have also noticed how dramatic my food choice have changed, for instance: Breakfast consists of a 60 calorie light and fit yogurt with fresh berries, a boiled egg for a snack, a fresh spinach salad with tomato/cucumber with calorie count spray dressing, a small bag of nuts for a snack and a palm size piece of fish with steamed green beans for dinner. I drink water throughout the day and a glass of iced green tea at lunch time. I continue to have coffee in the morning, however I use Splenda and fat free milk. I have learned that I must burn more calories than I take in...and it works!!
 
My advice to others that would like to lose weight and become more healthy....it can be done! I was very impatient and expected to see results over night, but as they say "It did not get put on over night and it will not come off over night", losing weight and staying healthy is hard work, but its worth it. Set a "realistic" goal and stay focused. I felt a huge portion of my success was working out with my friends, we worked out together, kept each other motivated and challenged each other. I am going to continue working out, I have learned how to incorporate beneficial workouts while being at home with my children. Being on vacation and while at work...I am going to continue to build my strength and endurance and feel great inside and out! I am encouraging my family and friends to join me n the process of living long and healthy!

​Thank you for an amazing experience!