How I Lost 17 Pounds Naturally and Boosted My Energy

Hello to all weight loss enthusiasts! I’m thrilled to share how I lost 17 unwanted pounds and transformed my health through simple, consistent changes.

 

My Wake-Up Call

A year ago, I noticed I was gaining weight and decided to step on the scale. The number shocked me—210 pounds! I realized my constant snacking on chips, cookies, and ice cream while relaxing on the couch had taken its toll. 

I knew it was time to take responsibility for my choices and focus on better habits before health issues developed.

The Holiday Turning Point

Saying No to Temptation

It all began around Christmas when I was surrounded by irresistible holiday cookies from coworkers, neighbors, and family. Normally, I would indulge without hesitation, but this time, 

I made a conscious decision to pass. Instead of giving in, I told myself it was time to focus on nourishing my body, not feeding my cravings. That single decision marked the start of my weight loss journey.

Replacing Cravings with Healthier Options

When the craving for sweets struck, I grabbed celery instead. It wasn’t exciting, but it was a small victory that helped me stay focused. I began packing celery in my lunch every day and soon noticed I was making more thoughtful choices. For lunch, 

I had soup three times a week, added fruit for balance, and made sure each meal supported my goal.

Building a Sustainable Eating Plan

A Nutritious Breakfast Routine

Breakfast was easy to manage. I ate a bowl of oatmeal to support heart health, drank a cup of juice, and took my daily vitamins. To prevent hunger between meals, I prepared a morning snack with a hard-boiled egg, yogurt, and a handful of nuts. 

These small, high-protein snacks kept me energized and satisfied.

Lunch and Dinner Strategy

For lunch, I kept my calorie intake around 900, which left room for a balanced dinner. I focused on portion control, enjoying salads topped with chicken, beef, or salmon on different days. On other evenings, 

I made healthy homemade meals or used leftovers, always mindful of calories and nutrition.

Incorporating Exercise for Faster Results

Adding Cardio Workouts

After adjusting my diet, I decided to add cardio exercises three times a week. At first, the results were slow, but after a few weeks, I noticed I had lost 2 pounds. 

That progress motivated me to stay consistent. Each 50-minute workout helped me burn between 847 and 890 calories—almost as much as I consumed for breakfast, snack, and lunch combined.

Staying Consistent and Motivated

I kept up the workouts, stuck to my meal plan, and paid attention to portion sizes. Three months later, I had lost 12 pounds, and after five months, a total of 17 pounds. 

The best part? I’ve maintained my weight ever since by continuing my healthy eating and exercising three times a week using cardio DVDs.

The Results and Takeaways

Health, Energy, and Confidence

Losing 17 pounds not only improved my appearance but also boosted my energy and relieved my back pain. I feel lighter, healthier, and more confident than ever. 

My journey taught me that success comes from patience, portion control, and consistent effort—not quick fixes.

 

My Advice for You

If you’re ready to shed extra pounds, set realistic goals and stick with them. Don’t rush the process. Progress takes time, but every step forward counts. Stay motivated, stay patient, and watch your transformation unfold.