-66 lb
Before
After
Why did you want to lose weight?
It started with the fact that I didn't feel comfortable in my own skin and was really unhappy with myself in general. Not just the way I looked, but my health was also causing me problems. I had knee problems, high blood pressure and was well on my way to developing diabetes.
"One day or day one?"
Psychologically, I was also struggling with depression and a binge eating disorder. It was a vicious cycle of desperately trying to lose weight by starving myself followed by the resulting binge eating.
What did you want to accomplish on your journey?
First and foremost, I wanted to feel good and be healthy. I wanted to go swimming or hiking with others without being in pain. Plus, I had seen from my mom's diabetes and my father's weight-related joint problems that, usually, most problems first start occurring at an older age and are often irreparable. I also wanted to be in shape and feel good as I aged.
How did you reach your goals?
These days, I regularly count my calories and do strength and conditioning training multiple times a week (4–6 times). I didn't have to cut out any foods, but I rarely have cheat day.
Larissa’s Tips
Never lose sight of your goal and why you started.
Pay attention to your mental health.
You are your only competition.
One bad day isn't a defeat.
Healthy alternatives also taste better to me now, and my body no longer tolerates a lot of fast food.
How did YAZIO help you?
YAZIO has been my daily companion for several years. Being able to plan my meals and the inspiration from new recipes has helped me tremendously. Since I also forget to drink enough, the water tracker is really helpful.
Did you have setbacks?
Yes, especially at the beginning when I would fall for crash diets or overpriced shakes. It never took long for the yo-yo effect to set in and the frustration was torture. But setbacks are part of the learning process. Progress is never linear.
Now, I've completely changed my lifestyle and have, at most, the occasional bad day. I've established a new routine and it's all easy for me these days.
What advice do you have for other users?
The most important aspect is to be honest with yourself. Do yourself a favor and stop looking for excuses! Don't let setbacks drag you down and keep pushing through. At some point, it will all become second nature!
What are your future goals?
Working out and health have become a huge part of my daily life. I work as a fitness instructor and will continue my education as a personal trainer and nutrition counselor. I'm actually also toying with the idea of taking the stage as a body builder to prove to myself that I can accomplish anything.
Why do you want to tell your story?
I want my story to motivate others to know anyone can achieve their goal.
I want to teach others that they don't need diet programs, pills or miracle shakes to lose weight and live healthily.
I want to help those that are struggling at the beginning and show them how much their quality of life can improve with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. If I could pull myself out of that hole, anyone can.
