Name: Gillian Haughton

Family status: Married with one son

Occupation: Communications and public affairs director

Starting weight: 260

Current weight: 210

Goal weight: About 180

1. What was your turning point?

It was just the realisation that I might die early. I have diabetes and heart problems in my family and I said I really need to do something about this.

2. What are the lifestyle changes you made?

I had done Atkins, which you know is high protein, low carbs and that worked very well. But then I kind of got bored and I started back regular eating, which, of course, put on back the weight. Then I started going to nutritionist Donovan Grant. I was also going to the gym as well, before that. But things weren't happening and it was actually when I started the programme with Donovan that I started losing a whole lot of weight. The changes were basically reducing my intake drastically, at some point, and a lot of juices and some fruits and vegetables, but carbs were out the door and sweets.

3. How long did it take you to start seeing results?

Within a week or two, I started to lose weight and then it just continued.

4. What were the challenges you had to face?

The challenges were the fact that people tried to tempt me. They would be like, 'Oh you don't want to taste this?' or 'Oh, this taste good!' Those were mainly the challenges.

5. How has your life changed since losing the weight?

I am now able to go into a store and find something that actually fits, instead of trying to find the plus-size section and not being able to find anything decent. I don't know why it is they make these frumpy-looking clothes for people who, according to Miss Kitty, are fluffy? It's nice to just be able to walk into a store and pick up a shirt or a blouse and say hey, you know maybe this can fit me. And, of course, there is a general feeling of well-being.

6. What was your motivation?

Losing the weight!

7. Provide us with four weight loss tips.

* Weight loss is not a short-term thing, it's not something you are just going to take up today. Starting January, I know the gym is going to be full of people and then by the middle of January or the end of January, you don't see them again. Weight loss is a lifetime commitment; it's not going to happen by waving a magic wand. There is no magic potion, there is no magic pill, there is nothing that is going to let you lose weight more than exercise and reducing your intake.

* You have to exercise, even if it is just consistent walking. I am not talking about walking at a leisurely pace that you are not burning anything; you need to walk at a brisk pace and for an extended period — like about half an hour of walking; (for example) before I developed back problem, I used to walk the stairs from the basement at work everyday.

* Have a positive outlook. Tell yourself you can do it and look for inspiration in what others have done. Sometimes you need a little nudge, a little motivation and it's hard for you to get it from within, but look at what others have done and tell yourself that yes, I can do it too.

* Don't tell yourself 'I am going to lose weight for my husband or my boyfriend'. You need to tell yourself that you are doing it for you, not for anybody else.

8. What is your weight loss eating plan?

Breakfast: Fruits such as papaya, June plum, banana, pineapple, mangoes, etc.

Lunch: Soup with meat and yams or fruits.

Dinner: Depends on what is prepared.

Snacks: Cashew, pecans and mixed nuts.

9. What is your workout regime?

Weight training (although) I am restricted now because I have a herniated disk. Treadmill for about 20 minutes to 30 minutes and jogging slowly.

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