My journey with Ideal Protein at Woman’s Center for Wellness started a little over 4 years ago. It came after the cringe-worthy moment when I realized that my weight at the time matched my weight at the end of my pregnancies. Except I wasn’t pregnant and I hadn’t just had a baby; in fact, my youngest was 3 years old! I had noticed that I was always feeling tired and very low energy, having a hard time keeping up with my little ones. I also struggled with my self-confidence and feeling good about myself as a result of my weight gain. I knew that a change had to made, but wasn’t sure what to do or where to go.

For the large majority of my life, I had been relatively healthy. I exercised and ate well, which helped me to maintain a more ideal weight. I first noticed that I started gaining weight after I started having children. I didn’t think much of it because I figured it was all part of the process of becoming a mom. I had tried to eat healthy and exercise several times over the years, but had very little success. Often times, I felt discouraged because I wasn’t seeing results and would quickly lose motivation. Having never attempted dieting before, I was a little skeptical of Ideal Protein, but researched it and read some really good things about the program. I figured I didn’t have much to lose, so I decided to enroll at Woman’s Center for Wellness.

When signing up, my main goal was to feel better and be healthier; losing weight would be an added bonus. I wasn’t sure what to expect and wasn’t sure if I’d get the results I wanted, but I knew I was ready for a change and I was ready to commit to it. Looking back, I think that was the biggest part of it. When we make up our minds to do something and decide to give it 100%, choices seem to be a lot easier. My choice was to stick with the program and see it through, regardless of what it took. I was going to do this! I followed the program carefully and never deviated, which wasn’t easy, but I had a wonderful and supportive health coach that helped keep me accountable. I loved seeing her each week and celebrating my success with her. I really enjoyed having her be a part of my journey; she was always encouraging me and providing me with tips to be more successful. Pretty soon, we were swapping recipes and joking about who got all of the okra at our local grocery store that week- her or I.

At the end of the program, I’m happy to report that I lost a total of 65 pounds in about 6 months, along with dropping 5 sizes in most clothing! While the weight loss was significant, what I actually gained proved to be so much more. I learned a healthier way of living and have been able to maintain my weight and keep it off for four years. I was able to make true lifestyle changes. I’ve learned how to use food to fuel my body and make choices that provide me with the nutrients I need. I learned how to read food labels and make better choices when shopping for items for myself and my family. Now, don’t get me wrong, I still enjoy all of my favorite foods, even some of the “not so good” things; but, I’ve learned how to do so in a healthy way that won’t jeopardize what I’ve accomplished.

The Ideal Protein program at Woman’s is the perfect jump start to a healthier lifestyle. Even though I’m done with the program, I like to think my journey is still on-going. Healthy living is a day-to-day thing made up of making many smart choices. I also love that I have been able to take what I learned and apply it to my family, helping them to be healthier and happier. Healthy is contagious and I love nothing more than sharing this with my children and others.

To other women who are thinking of making a change or looking for a new program, I would encourage them explore the what if’s, but in a positive way. What if you commit today? What if you give it your all this week? What if you complete the program? What if you keep it going? What if this is the program that can change everything? If you take the time to think of all of these what if’s and put it into action, you’ll find that it can open the door to a new beginning. I made the choice, I took action, and I’ve found a new way of life!