How I Lost the Weight, Kept It Off, and Took Control of My Health

An honest two-year update on what worked, what didn’t, and what actually lasts.

There were years where I really struggled in my skin, and I wish I had read a post like this one. I know this is a very sensitive subject for many. If weight loss is triggering to you, I recommend skipping this one.

It’s been almost two years since I wrote about losing weight and getting healthier. People still reference that post. The takeaway from that post was never meant to be “this is the right way” or worse that “we should all look a certain way.”

It was a reminder to take a closer look at your health, and that if you’re uncomfortable in your body, it’s ok to seek help.

The above photo was taken a week after having my baby.

I was newly postpartum, exhausted, insulin resistant, iron deficient, had high cholesterol, and was genuinely afraid for my long-term health. I had to do something.

I’ve shared this before, but heart disease and diabetes run in my family. My grandfather had his first heart attack in his forties, and my grandmother became diabetic in hers. When I had my third (and last) baby at 40, I felt a sense of urgency to be healthy for my kids. I saw a doctor who ran extensive labs and tests, like a calcium heart screening and my first mammogram.

If you are 40+, please, please schedule your annual mammogram.

That doctor changed my life, but there are now much more accessible (and affordable) ways to get the same information and support.

I’d like to share what I would do differently, the side effect I didn’t anticipate, and where I am almost two years later.