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Name: Ana Guerrero
Age: 35
Height: 5'10"
Before Weight: 265 pounds
How I Gained It: Years and years of struggling with weight but not committing to a healthier lifestyle. During my teenage years I could keep my weight in control (sort of), but after getting married my work schedule was loaded with stress and I dealt with it by using food as a source of comfort and indulgence. It was not healthy at all.
Breaking Point: I realized I was nearing 300 pounds, and I really got scared. I did not like the way I looked. I wanted to have a long and happy life with my family. My kids were growing, and when you have children you want to be part of their life and spend time with them. My weight was not allowing me to fully enjoy parenting. I realized that maybe it was not going to be easy, but I was pretty sure if I worked hard I could achieve it.
How I Lost It: It was more than going on a diet. Losing weight meant making a decision for a healthier lifestyle. I started seeing a nutritionist and followed his indications to modify my diet. I cut out all sugary drinks, sweets, pizza and fast food, and switched to things like chicken, salad, fish, lean meat, brown rice and whole grains. My food plan was tough, even more since temptations were all around, but I set my mind on my desired goal. I made sure to eat small meals throughout the day.
I also exercised regularly. My work schedule was not adaptable entirely, so instead of joining a gym I have been exercising at home with Zumba DVDs. It was very hard to start exercising because I was so out of shape. I reckon the fitness DVDs work better when you set your mind to actually doing the exercises and holding yourself accountable for the results.
I am really proud of myself and what I have accomplished. I do know this is something I have to keep working on, but I am more active, healthier and much happier. I know I feel and look better, but I need to keep on going in order not to fall into the trap of old habits. It is really surprising to compare myself to me "before." It tells you how powerful it is to work hard for what you want to accomplish. Losing so much weight is not easy at all, it requires a lot of patience and encouragement, but it is not impossible.
After Weight: 183 pounds 
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