Honestly I really got tired of being the big one, the fat friend, or the she's pretty for a big girl. When I finally made up my mind I remember talking to my ex, and telling him I was going on a diet.. He just looked and said " you always say that, just let it go"... While I don't really think he knew how those words affected me! The journey started off trying to prove everyone wrong who had ever written me off especially him, but a month into things it became more about me, and how I was feeling and treating my body like a temple! Start weight 280lbs and I've lost exactly 80lbs!
What did you do to lose weight? (ie. weight watchers, low carb, portion control, fitness apps, exercise, juicing, etc.)
I started off eating really clean, only proteins, veggies, fruits & a minimum of 3 starches a week mainly brown rice and sweet potatoes. Once I incorporated the gym, I would walk for 60 minutes on the treadmill and once I built up endurance I started interval training once I started running the weight really started to melt off. And once the lbs started flying I started strength training with weights toning my areas to keep a toned physique.
What are some of your favorite meals, food items or snacks when dieting?
My favorite foods are spinach, and almonds.. Almonds are great for snacking and curbing your appetite! I also love love cliff's white chocolate macadamia nut granola bars. And fresh cut pineapples, I eat them every day!
Did you follow any weight loss “rules”? (ie. no eating after 5, no carbs, etc)
The only weight loss rule I really followed was no fried foods, I couldn't follow a time schedule for eating because of my work schedule, so when I did eat late I made sure it was a lite meal.
In your opinion, what is the hardest thing about weight loss?
The hardest thing about losing weight has got to be consistency and having your mind made up. It's easy to eat right for that 1st week but what happens when you're bored by the 2nd week. I always say it's mind over matter!
What are some of the joys of being at a healthier weight?
Although I'm not quite at my ideal weight, the best feeling has got to be, being able to go into any store and knowing they will have my size! My wardrobe has drastically changed lol I've bought clothes just because and also when you haven't seen an old friend in a while and they see you for the first time after your weight loss.
If you could leave readers with a word of advice or any tips, what would it be?
My advice is to have your mind made up and set! Once you change your mind, you then can change your body. Weight loss starts with the mind!!!
Stay in Contact with Monique!
IG: @thatssomoe
FB: Monique Woods
Twitter: @destruktiondoll