Success Stories - Part II

Gina Westbrook-

            I have struggled with my weight for years. At the age of 33, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and it just exacerbated the problem. For the past two years, I had been exercising 3-4 times per week but had no weight loss at all. I have since realized that my exercising was just allowing me to maintain my unhealthy eating habits and I was using my hypothyroidism as a crutch. At the end of 2009, I decided that I was going to change my eating habits and commit to losing weight in a healthy way. I spoke to my good friend, and now personal trainer, Stephanie Sherwood, and we developed a plan of action. I wanted to make a true lifestyle change, not just diet. I started my journey on January 3, 2010, and have lost 27 pounds to date. I found an application for my iPhone that has assisted me in logging every piece of food that I put into my mouth and every minute of exercise I perform. My eyes have been opened to the true nutritional value of our food and I have become much more knowledgeable as to what food is best for me. I’ve been asked on numerous occasions “what have you given up?” I can honestly say that I have not restricted anything from my diet. I exercise portion control and count calories. It honestly has been one of the easiest things I have done in my life. I have made exercise and eating healthy a part of my life.

            The second part of my story involves my husband. I believe he started his weight loss journey one week after I began mine. He mirrored what I was doing with making wise food choices, and exercising. He has lost a total of 35 pounds and is more energetic than I can ever remember. In addition to lifting weights and toning his body, he has also focused and increased his cardio workouts. He looks and feels better than he has in a very long time. We have shared our journey to a new healthier lifestyle and have both embraced it. We exercise together at the gym 2-3 times per week and have started riding bicycles together every night. We hold each other accountable in the food choices we make, and also in getting daily exercise.