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Success Story: Melanie O.

"First couple weeks were hard but the weight was dropping off! After a few weeks, the cravings for carbs were gone. My energy levels were up and I was feeling fantastic! This was such a change and it has kept me motivated. "

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Melanie O.
Age: 48
Start Weight: 279 lbs.
Current Weight: 188 lbs.
​Goal Weight: 160 lbs.

What made you decide to lose weight? Was there a moment or experience that "lit the fire" for you?

I had a friend that had the gastric sleeve and was doing really well. I didn't want to go that route but I had to do something. I was tired of everything being a struggle.  
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Have you tried any other weight loss plans (low fat, low calorie, or other) in the past? How did they work out?

I have tried Weight Watchers at least 30 different times but always ended up with the weight back on plus more. I did fen-phen briefly and lost weight but gained it back after quitting the medication.  

Tell us about your weight loss experience. How did you change your diet and lifestyle? How did this affect your life (health, well-being, attitude, energy)?

I went to a weight loss doctor and he suggested the low carb lifestyle. I didn't think I could do it but I agreed to try it as I was desperate. I quit eating carb laden foods, especially sugar. First couple weeks were hard but the weight was dropping off! After a few weeks, the cravings for carbs were gone. My energy levels were up and I was feeling fantastic! This was such a change and it has kept me motivated.  

How did Carb Manager help you stay on track? Which features did you find the most useful?

Carb Manager was a very important tool to help me stay on track. Not knowing the carb content of many foods, tracking with Carb Manager helped me stay within my ratios where I was losing weight. I liked being able to have a "favorites" food list for quick tracking.  

What was the most difficult part of losing weight? What techniques did you use to overcome these challenges? What kept you motivated?

For me, the greatest challenge was the workplace. There were always temptations like donuts, cookies etc. After being on low carb for awhile, they just didn't appeal to me anymore. My motivation was being able to buy new jeans every couple of months because the weight was coming off.  

What do you see as the greatest benefits of going low carb?

The greatest benefit of going low carb was not just losing weight, but feeling good. The sluggishness is gone and I feel clearheaded. 

What's the best thing about being at your new weight?

The best thing about being my new weight is my confidence level has increased. I'm not the fattest girl in the room anymore! Also, I buy clothes in the regular section now.  

What are your health & fitness goals going forward?

I am continuing to lose weight until I reach goal. I have also incorporated weight lifting into my fitness routine.  
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We'd love it if you could provide a few tips for others just beginning their low carb lifestyle.

1. Track your carbs with Carb Manager, it's a great learning tool
2. All restaurants will honor your request to make your meal low carb, just ask
3. Give your body time to get used to this new way of eating, it works!  
  • Low Carb Blog