Brittani was like many of us when she went off to college: gaining a little weight here and there, and before you know it, you've gained at least 15 pounds. But in Brittani's case, she kept gaining until she ballooned up to 275 pounds at the young age of 25. It wasn't until she noticed her denial that she started to change and get back healthy. In her own words, Brittani describes her journey to health below:
BDO: What made you decide to lose weight and get healthy?
Bri: Since I was 25 years old and fresh out of college I was working nonstop or traveling and of course eating and socially indulging in cocktails. I would notice a change in weight, but then found myself buying and wearing leggings because they tend to "grow with you". So, I was in vast denial about my hazardous health. My initial wake up call was one day realizing that I was literally getting dressed in my kitchen because my home was full of Full length mirrors and that was my only escape because I hated what I saw in the mirror.
I decided the moment I became aware that I was getting dressed in my kitchen that I had to start somewhere, somehow on rebuilding my entire life. I began by creating a music playlist and forcing myself to walk 4 miles every day alone, then from that, I lost 10 pounds. Shortly after, I joined Weight Watchers to teach myself how to choose foods, how to plan meals and to be prepared whenever, wherever I am. My first weigh in was 275 pounds at the age of 25. I would attend boot camp classes in the area and I stuck with it. But I've switched my routine and physical trainers several times to continue to keep my body in shock in order to see the results.
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My journey is holistic, I don't consume any fat burners. Just sticking to a multivitamin & my Omega 3's. I have never trained with any abdominal binding devices either. I want my journey to be one of hardcore mental strength and that's literally the biggest battle with anything in life.
BDO: Did your relationships change when you began to live healthy?
Bri: The most difficult part of my healthy transition was that I, in fact, did lose quite a few friendships because I pulled back from much of the social partying and celebratory eating not to offend people, but to really zero in on myself and the goal I have in mind for me. While that hurt me, I've made new friends, learned many new things about myself and my confidence is far superior than it's ever been.
BDO: How Do You Currently View Your Body?
Bri: My current views on my physical appearance are phenomenal. I'm still in shock 90 pounds later that I can fit into a size medium and a 10/12 jeans. I haven't worn jeans since high school, so I'm very proud of the faith I've sustained in myself along this path. I now eat tons and tons of green veggies, spinach, zucchini, & broccoli being a staple in my house. Previously, I've never been much into veggies. I opt for the foods that are organic and I'm an avid label reader. I believe in knowing what you're ingesting. If you can't pronounce the ingredients, don't eat it. I have a cheat meal on Sunday usually, and I meal prep for the week that same night so that I'm completely back on track.
BDO: If someone wanted to lose weight like you, what would you tell them to do?
Bri: My recommendations for someone just beginning...
... their healthy journey would be if you drink alcohol, to cut down the alcoholic beverage intake. It makes a huge difference in your energy and decreases the sugar in your body that metabolizes as stored fat. Secondly, increase the amount of water and green leafy veggies in your diet & to aim for foods higher in protein as well in order to keep you fuller for longer periods of time. Lastly, incorporate a cardiovascular exercise routine in addition to lifting weights. Don't be afraid to lift. No matter how light you start, the body will adjust and you'll keep learning and keep making improvements. Jump into those fitness classes that challenge you, work at your pace and give it all you got!
BDO: What's next for you?
Bri: What's next for me is becoming a nutritionist in addition to my career in order to assist ppl who aren't sure as to where to begin in their health/ wellness journey start a new life that isn't restrictive and prevents debilitating diseases. Additionally, my dream is to compete in a Women's Figure Competition that may be fall of 2016 or Spring 2017. I'm pushing for this goal and I'm pretty confident I'll get there. Mind over Matter.
