“I feel like a new person!”
Editor's note: Does every diet you try leave you feeling hungry and tired? Do you want to eat healthily without giving up satisfying foods? You need our new Gi Plan! VHI Diets is happy to launch a Gi plan that will help you feel fuller for longer, curb cravings and lose weight. Click here for more information.
Nutrition Team
Celia joined the diet plans hoping to shed a few pounds for her son's wedding; she achieved that goal and much more besides. Celia is healthier, fitter and happier than she has been in years. Her BMI has dropped from 32 to 25, significantly reducing her risks of developing medical conditions like Heart Disease and Diabetes.
Determination and a good support system helped Celia to lose weight; she tells us her story…
Why did you join?
I was at the doctors checking my cholesterol when I saw a weighing machine. I gave it a go and was horrified to see how heavy I was. My son is getting married in July and I knew I wanted to lose some weight for the wedding.
How much weight did you lose?
I lost 3 stone and my clothes size dropped from size 18 to 20 to a much more flattering size 12 to 14.
What problems had you with your weight?
I feel like a new person now. I struggled to find nice fitting clothes which weren’t too drab. Now the sky is the limit! I couldn’t run for a bus before, but I can run effortlessly now which is a good thing as I am always late! I used to be quite shy but these days I will happily start conversations with strangers and I am also the first one to hit the dance floor.
How has your diet changed since joining us?
I have never thought of the Gi eating plan as a diet-it’s a new way of eating which has totally changed how I feel about food. I am rarely hungry as the Gi plan is designed to slowly release the energy from food. I find that I scrutinise the calorie and fat content of foods in the supermarket these days, whereas before I would never look at all.
Have you enjoyed using the online programme?
I loved the Gi plan. The fact that you can choose the plan to suit you is helpful. I like the recipes because they tell you exactly what to do, the shopping list is great, much easier than sitting and making out a list and missing out on something.
Has your family been supportive of your weight loss efforts?
They have all been behind me 100% and my husband, bless him has been eating the same meals as me-not to lose weight, but to make shopping and preparation easier for me. They are so proud of what I have achieved.
How do you feel about your weight loss?
I feel that I have knocked 15 years off my age, I do have much more confidence and just knowing that you look better gives you such a boost. When I went swimming before I used to quickly cover up with a towel but now I don’t bother. I am so proud of myself and what I have achieved. My son’s wedding is imminent and I have the outfit of my dreams, size 12-who would have thought it!
Have you any advice for other members?
Use the support groups, when you think it’s bad not to have lost any weight the group helps to motivate you, and there is always encouragement there to help you carry on. But most importantly “Be patient and smile”.