Shantrell lost 45 pounds. She’s a 31-year-old entrepreneur and graduate student from New Orleans. After being diagnosed with digestive issues, she decided to change her eating habits. She also likes to mix up her workouts with dance fitness, cardio, strength training, barre, yoga, cycling, etc.
I’m a 31-year-old entrepreneur and graduate student from New Orleans, LA. My weight loss journey has been up and down for the past five years. I recently discovered I suffer from digestive issues, which causes me to bloat immediately after I eat. My daily unhealthy eating habits also didn’t help. I decided to start making healthier lifestyle changes. I have lost a total of 45 pounds!
What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My son definitely inspires me. He has always been my number-one supporter. He encourages me daily.
How did you change your eating habits?
I struggled for years with weight loss, bloating, and digestive issues. Little did I know that my body no longer needed fatty carbs, sugar, or fried foods on a regular. Eating more fruits and vegetables helped the process. I started using the My Fitness Pal app to help me track my calorie intake. This held me accountable for my intake of fiber, protein, carbs, etc. Living in New Orleans is challenging because of the fantastic food options. However, for me to obtain results, I must keep discipline in my choices.
How often do you work out?
I work out Monday-Saturday for an hour. I recently started teaching a cardio Poms Poms class.
What did your workout routine consist of?
OMG! Everything! I’ve literally done it all: Dance fitness, high-intensity cardio, strength training, barre, yoga, and cycling.
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
I started at 235 pounds, and now I weigh 190 pounds.
Shantrell lost 45 pounds.
What is your height?
5’7″
When did you start your journey?
I started four years ago.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
I learned never to give up! Hold yourself accountable.
What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
- Set an achievable goal with a timeline.
- It’s ok to say no when you’re out with friends. Stay focused.
- Take before and after pictures as often as you can to track progress.
- Download the My Fitness Pal app.
Shantrell lost 45 pounds Transformation.
Sherita Lost 30 Pounds
Transformation of the Day:
lost 30 pounds. Her motivation came in the form of her 42nd birthday and her brother’s engagement party. Determined to look and feel like a million bucks for these events, this Zeta Phi Beta soror sought out the help of a weight loss coach for encouragement and nutrition guidance.
What was your motivation?
What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My 42nd birthday was my inspiration. I also had to go to an engagement party for my baby brother. These two events were within a month of each other, and I wanted to wear a short pink shimmer dress. I was determined to look and feel like a million bucks.
When I wanted to give up, Terry Starks (my diet doctor) gave me weekly encouragement and helped keep me focused with his calls.
How did you change your eating habits?
I decided to meal prep and start being more aware of the food I was eating. So, I decided to give up cheese (dairy) and cut back on carbs. I used Terry Starks’ plan and decided to eat more protein and veggies with fruit. Terry made it easy by helping my meal prep and pick the foods that would be best for my diet.
What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
My workout consisted of Zumba, using a spin bike, walking, and lifting weights. Terry recommended 30 minutes of cardio once a day and then kicking it up to twice a day.
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 205 pounds, and I am down to 175 pounds (30 pounds down).
What is your height?
My height is 5ft.
When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started at the beginning of January, and I saw changes with Terry Starks‘ program in 35 days. I kept going to week 8 (which is the picture on the right).
Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, I have decided to do it the old fashion way and to keep at it. I know it will take time, and I want this to be a lifestyle change.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
I have learned that “abs are made in the kitchen.” I was determined to make a change. After working out for over a year and struggling, I was determined to take a leap and try his program.
What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
The best advice I can give is to keep trying, Ladies. No matter your age or shape, you can DO IT! As women, we are always putting everyone else first. Now it is time to put yourself first and to love the skin you are in. I want women to learn that all it takes is a leap, and you can succeed. Try Terry for yourself and get your own transformation!
Instagram: @sheritas.hilton
Disclaimer: Reference or link to any specific product, diet plan, exercise plan, or service mentioned in the weight loss stories we share is for the information of our readers, and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Black Women Losing Weight.
