I’ve always known that carbs were bad, especially white carbs, but truth be told, they had a hold on me. Nothing was as good as two slices of white hard dough bread and butter or pear, and dinner just wasn’t the same without white jasmine rice. So I battled the bulge for a long time, because even though I knew they were bad for me, I just couldn’t quit.

My cousin’s death was what changed my perspective on food. She was here one day and literally gone the next, and I realised how fickle life was, and how important it was to be well. So I decided to lose the weight, just initially as something to do to take my mind off things.

Grieving started the process somewhat, as I had no appetite after her death. In a matter of days I was already down a few pounds, so I thought why not make the best out of the situation?

I started by just not buying these white carbs at all, and just using what was in my fridge and cupboard. I had huge bags of vegetable mixes, and so many nights these are what I would sauté for dinner, and add in some protein like chicken breasts or hamburger meat.

Start weight: 154 lbs

Height: 5’5″

Age: 30

Breakfast

Most mornings I just had coffee, and even though I knew having breakfast was super important, I just had no interest. But by 10:00 am or so I’d eat a fruit like a banana, or dried fruit like trail mix or raisins. Occasionally I’d have a slice of wholewheat bread with jam.

Lunch

This was mostly raw or cooked vegetables with a protein, or soup. Soups became my best friend as they were filling, and didn’t take a lot of preparation. Truthfully, sometimes when I was at home this ‘soup’ was Ramen with a boiled or fried egg on top.

Dinner

This was often my biggest meal of the day. Again, I’d sauté the vegetables I had with protein, or have wholewheat pasta with sauce, and maybe add in some franks. I’d have dinner before 7:00 pm, and have nothing afterwards.

In just three weeks I’d lost 10 pounds, and I continue to lose. I’m toning up by walking in the mornings and evenings. My goal weight is 130 pounds so I still have a ways to go, but I’m very pleased with what I’ve achieved so far.

Sashauna is a civil servant and master’s student.

HOW’S YOUR FITNESS JOURNEY GOING?

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