Hema used to weigh 127 kgs in 2011, she never exercised and always indulged in fast food. However, low immunity, breathlessness and the desire to have another baby forced Hema to undergo bariatric surgery. This was followed by a grueling exercise regime and a strict diet .
Name: Hema Parmar
Age: 33 yrs
Profession: Bariatric Patient Coordinator
Weight before (MAY 2011): 127 kgs
Weight now (November 2013): 73 kgs
I started gaining weight gradually after my first pregnancy. I have a family history of morbid obesity and my mother had to undergo bariatric surgery to lose weight. Being overweight I couldn’t conceive for the second time, it was because of this, that I had to lose weight.
How did you begin your weight loss journey? Tell us about the baby steps that you look, like avoiding junk, alcohol or if you started going for a walk after lunch?
I started increasing my physical activity by adding walking, jogging and aerobics (at the gym) to my daily schedule. Initially, I did lose 2-3 kgs in two months time but that wasn’t enough. Also, my diet was dominated by oily and junk food, pizza and soft drinks. The weight that I lost, was regained in no time. So, I started all over again, this time with a more focused approach and expert help.
I started by strictly following the diet designed for me by my dietician and I ruled out junk food completely.
In the gym I began to push myself harder on a daily basis. In the begining I used to get exhausted easily, but after awhile I built up good stamina.
Tell us about your exercise regime? How difficult was it in the beginning to exercise? What were your biggest concerns?
The gym routine was strenuous; the exhaustive workouts led to body aches and aerobics resulted in breathlessness. Sustaining the schedule was difficult. In a way, my bariatric surgery helped me to get back some stamina and continue with gymming and follow a strict diet.
Tell us about your diet? What kind of changes did you make? Did your family help you or join you in your efforts?
After my surgery, my portion size decreased and I began feeling full even after consuming a small meal. I was encouraged to have proteins like chicken, fish and meat, which I liked. I avoided fried foods and sweets completely. The weight loss motivated me to eat healthier. My family supported me all through the weight loss process.
Tell us about your diet in detail?
Breakfast: Two egg whites with toasted brown bread.
Pre workout (optional)
Lunch: 2 chapattis with grilled fish or chicken, a bowl of sprouts (Later I replaced all non-veg items with green veggies three times a week).
Evening snack: Bowl of mixed fruit or a protein shake
Dinner: Same as lunch
Tell us about the happiness or sense of achievement you felt after your weight loss
My self-image and confidence levels are much higher now. My life has changed from being a housewife to a working woman. My work which is interacting and helping others with similar weight issues gives me satisfaction and a sense of achievement. It feels good when your family and kids walk up to you and tell you that they are proud of you
No comments:
Post a Comment