10 Kg Gone! Here’S Exactly What I Did

Okay, friends, I’m so excited to finally share this with you! For months, I’ve been working towards a healthier me, and I’ve officially shed 10 kilograms (that’s about 22 pounds!) I know a lot of you have been asking about my journey, so I’m laying it all out: the good, the not-so-good, and everything in between. I’m not a doctor or a nutritionist, just a regular person sharing what worked for me. Always check with your own doctor before making big changes to your diet or exercise routine!
First things first: this wasn’t a quick fix. I didn’t starve myself, and I definitely didn’t cut out entire food groups. It was a gradual process of making smarter choices and building healthy habits. It took time, effort, and a whole lot of patience, but trust me, it’s been worth it!
My Winning Strategy: It’s All About Balance
My approach wasn’t about deprivation; it was about finding balance and making sustainable changes that I could stick with long-term. Here’s the breakdown:
1. Mindful Eating: Paying Attention to My Body
This was probably the biggest game-changer for me. I used to eat so quickly, often distracted by my phone or the TV. I realized I wasn’t even tasting my food or noticing when I was full. Now, I make a conscious effort to slow down, put away distractions, and really savor each bite. This helped me recognize my hunger cues and stop eating when I was satisfied, not stuffed.
I started asking myself before each meal, “Am I really hungry, or am I just bored/stressed/tired?” Sometimes, I realized I just needed a glass of water or a quick walk to clear my head.
2. Portion Control: Smaller Plates, Bigger Awareness
Another simple but effective trick was using smaller plates. It sounds silly, but it really works! It helps trick your brain into thinking you’re eating a full plate, even if the portions are smaller. I also started measuring out things like cereal and pasta to get a better handle on how much I was actually consuming.
Instead of going back for seconds (or thirds!), I waited 20 minutes after finishing my first plate. Often, the feeling of fullness would kick in, and I wouldn’t need more food.
3. Revamped My Diet: Goodbye Processed Foods, Hello Whole Foods!
I didn’t completely eliminate processed foods, but I drastically reduced them. I focused on incorporating more whole, unprocessed foods into my diet, like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. I started cooking more meals at home, which allowed me to control the ingredients and portion sizes.
Instead of sugary cereals, I switched to oatmeal with berries and nuts. Instead of processed snacks, I opted for fruits, vegetables with hummus, or a handful of almonds. Small swaps can make a huge difference!
4. Increased My Water Intake: Hydration is Key!
I knew I wasn’t drinking enough water, so I made a conscious effort to increase my intake. I started carrying a water bottle with me everywhere and refilling it throughout the day. I also set reminders on my phone to drink water regularly. Sometimes hunger is actually thirst in disguise, so staying hydrated helped me avoid unnecessary snacking.
I also tried adding sliced cucumber, lemon, or berries to my water to make it more interesting. It’s a great way to stay hydrated and add a little flavor without any extra calories.
5. Regular Exercise: Finding What I Enjoyed
I’m not a huge fan of traditional gyms, so I knew I needed to find activities that I genuinely enjoyed. I started taking dance classes, going for hikes with friends, and walking my dog more often. The key is to find something you love so that exercise doesn’t feel like a chore.
I aimed for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Even small amounts of activity can add up over time. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking during my lunch break, or doing some quick stretching exercises at home all helped.
6. Prioritized Sleep: Rest and Recovery
Sleep is so important for overall health and well-being, and it plays a crucial role in weight management. When you’re sleep-deprived, your body produces more of the stress hormone cortisol, which can lead to increased appetite and cravings. I made a conscious effort to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
I created a relaxing bedtime routine to help me wind down before sleep. This included taking a warm bath, reading a book, and avoiding screen time for at least an hour before bed.
7. Tracked My Progress: Seeing the Results
I used a fitness tracker and a food journal to monitor my progress. Seeing the numbers go down and the positive changes in my body was incredibly motivating. It also helped me identify any areas where I could improve.
I wasn’t obsessed with the numbers, but tracking my progress helped me stay accountable and see the results of my efforts. There are many free apps available that make tracking easy and convenient.
8. Allowed Myself Treats: No Deprivation Here!
Completely restricting myself from my favorite foods would have been a recipe for disaster. Instead, I allowed myself occasional treats in moderation. If I was craving pizza, I’d have a slice or two, but I wouldn’t eat the entire pie. It’s all about balance and enjoying treats without going overboard.
Trying to completely deprive yourself can lead to cravings and binge eating. Allowing yourself occasional treats can help you stay on track in the long run.
9. Stayed Consistent: The Key to Long-Term Success
Consistency is key. There were days when I didn’t feel like exercising or eating healthy, but I pushed myself to stick to my plan as much as possible. It’s okay to have occasional slip-ups, but it’s important to get back on track as soon as possible.
Building healthy habits takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep showing up and doing your best, and you’ll eventually reach your goals.
10. Celebrated Small Wins: Keeping Motivated
I celebrated every small victory along the way. Whether it was losing a pound, fitting into an old pair of jeans, or completing a tough workout, I took the time to acknowledge and appreciate my progress. This helped me stay motivated and keep moving forward.
Reward yourself for your hard work! It could be anything from buying yourself a new workout outfit to taking a relaxing bath. Just make sure your rewards are healthy and aligned with your goals.
Safety First!
It’s important to remember that everyone’s body is different. What worked for me might not work for you. Always consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine. They can help you create a plan that is safe and effective for your individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have a bad day and overeat?
It happens! Don’t beat yourself up about it. Just acknowledge it, learn from it, and get back on track with your next meal or workout. One bad day won’t derail your progress.
How long did it take you to lose 10 kg?
It took me about six months of consistent effort. Remember, slow and steady wins the race. Focus on building healthy habits that you can maintain long-term, rather than trying to lose weight quickly.
What’s the hardest part of your weight loss journey?
For me, the hardest part was staying consistent, especially on days when I didn’t feel motivated. It was tempting to skip a workout or indulge in unhealthy foods, but I knew that consistency was key to reaching my goals.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their weight loss journey?
Start small, be patient with yourself, and focus on making sustainable changes that you can stick with long-term. Don’t try to do too much too soon, and don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone’s journey is unique. Most importantly, celebrate your progress and remember that you are worth the effort!
So, there you have it! That’s exactly what I did to lose 10 kg. It wasn’t always easy, but it was definitely worth it. I feel healthier, more energetic, and more confident than ever before. I hope my experience inspires you to start your own journey towards a healthier you! Remember, it’s not about being perfect, it’s about progress. You got this!