Interviews With People Not Following Any Particular Weight Loss Program

Here you will read our interviews with people who are not following any commercialized program in their efforts to lose weight. Some of them follow the specific recommendations of their nutritionist or dietitian; others adapt the principles of some popular weight loss programs, but modify them in ways that suit their circumstances best. What they have in common, though, with followers of commercial diet programs is a determination to lose their "extra baggage" and become healthier in the process, and for the rest of their lives.

• Saying no to certain sweets and refined food products brings Melodee closer to her weight goal
  Because of her vulnerability to insulin resistance, Melodee is on a lifestyle program similar to "Sugarbusters!" Eating smaller amounts of foods that are rich in sugar and choosing those that belong to the "good carbs" category are not only helping her lose weight. They're good for her insulin problems as well.
  
  
• Combining FlexPoints and the 3-Hour Diet is part of Hilly's weight loss strategy
  A medical problem was the deciding factor in Hilly's decision to start losing weight back in 2002. She started with the Weight Watchers FlexPoints program, which she now combines with the 3-Hour Diet. Hilly's weight loss journey hasn't been easy, but she's determined to stick it out to achieve her goal of becoming healthy.
  
  
• For Shaunta, the best way to lose weight effectively has been to give up dieting
  Eating only when she's hungry and becoming physically active are the main ingredients of Shaunta's weight loss strategy. After years of 'dieting' failed to bring the results she wanted and needed, Shaunta decided to stop focusing on counting calories and to go with something called natural or attuned eating.
  
  
• For Helena, losing weight was possible through a simple yet highly effective method for her
  Helena chose to lose weight her own way, by not following any of the well-known weight loss programs that are out there today. Going with her logic meant simply to eat less and move more. In her case, this was most effective. Today, she is at her target weight, and she follows her proven lifestyle habits to make sure she stays that way.
  
  
• Leigh is losing weight and eating better through a personal plan that works for her
  To lose weight and improve her health, Leigh found that a method she devised especially for herself works the best. Deriving inspiration from some websites, she has been setting mini-goals, learning to say no to junk food, and trying out healthy foods. These are only some of the "baby steps" that Leigh has started to take on her weight loss journey.
  
  
• For David, an awareness of the calories he's ingesting is what's helping him to lose weight
  Blogging is more than just a support system tool for David: it's probably the major factor in his weight loss journey. Being aware of the calories he's taking in--and knowing that the whole world can read about it--allows him to adjust his eating habits for the better. Personal and public accountability via blogging keeps him on the road that will lead to feeling good…once again.
  
  
• A lifestyle change for Alyice means not only losing weight, but doing it in a healthy way
  There are several influencing factors in Alyice's ongoing weight loss journey, which is part of her lifestyle change. She uses online and offline resources to guide her eating habits and to become more physically active. For Alyice, losing weight isn't a matter of vanity; it's about wanting to be healthy and to be there for the people she loves
  
  
• Learn how physical activity has been an integral part of Steven's weight loss success
  Steven lost more than 100 pounds thanks largely to a change in eating habits and habitual exercise. See the ways he engages in physical activity -- in things that make exercise a fun thing to do instead of a chore. Weight loss for him is not a temporary goal to be achieved; it involves major lifestyle changes that he's sticking with.
  
  
• Family, podcasting, geekiness, and exercise are helping Jason move closer to his weight loss goal
  Jason isn't following any particular weight loss plan. Instead, he's achieving his goal to lose weight through a combination of motivating factors. Here, he talks about how family, friends, and his love for the Internet are helping him get rid of his extra weight.
  
  
• Exercise and a low-carb diet are the steps that Matt is taking on his weight loss journey
  Inspired by the Atkins Diet, Matt is following a modified version of it in his efforts to lose weight. The decision to go low-carb has shown significant results, as has a greater involvement in physical activity. Having a sense of humor about it all sure doesn't hurt either!
  
  
• Learn how Jonathan achieved his target weight and how he's focusing on remaining healthy
  Many weight loss strategies didn't do much at all for Jonathan and the results he wanted were realized when he took matters into his own hands. A quick fix isn't always the best way, that losing weight involves so much more than just shedding excess pounds. Jonathan shares with us the difficulties he experienced at first, and some words of wisdom on having a health-oriented attitude.
  
  
• Paul is a triathlete who's losing weight by combining exercise and calorie management
  Paul has tried several weight loss programs and found that combining a little part of each one to create his own method works the best for him. Managing calories, practicing portion control, and his passion for the triathlon all play a necessary part in his success in losing weight.
  
  
• See how a combination of eating right and exercise is bringing out a healthier Jessica
  For a woman who was so reluctant to lose weight in the first place, Jessica has been succeeding admirably. Counting calories, regular exercise, and some mental/emotional tools seem to be working for her. Taking it slowly and easy has certainly paid off.
  
  
• Kimberly's weight loss and lifestyle change for lifelong health
  For Kimberly, losing weight is more than just dieting. She made a commitment to change her lifestyle to include healthier eating habits, exercise, and the right mindset. See how she successfully deals with the problems that she encountered--and continues to encounter--along her weight loss journey.
  
  
• Eating smart and exercise brought Jeff the weight loss he was determined to achieve
  Jeff wanted to lose weight quickly and this he did successfully. Now his goal is to add weight--in the form of lean muscle. He shares his weight loss experience as well as some tips on the necessity of making a lifestyle change, not merely going on a diet.
  
  
• Koz learned to incorporate a balanced diet in her lifestyle by following a modified low-carbohydrate weight loss program
  Changing her eating habits was only one part of Koz’s road to losing weight. In addition to following a modified low-carbohydrate diet, she stays in motion regularly each day as part of her lifestyle change. For her, eating healthy is not only for weight loss, but more for one’s well-being.
  
  
• Louis followed his own simple rules to lose weight and to maintain a fitness-oriented lifestyle
  Louis created his own path to weight loss and well-being by following principles that worked for him. Years after reaching his target weight, the knowledge and practices he learned along his lifestyle change journey still hold true. Exercising religiously and being consistently health-oriented are important components of his daily fitness routine.
  
  
• By restricting her calorie intake and exercising regularly, Tracey's weight loss goal is just a few pounds away
  Boosting her self-image was what prompted Tracey to lose weight. Along the way, she learned many other things about the importance of mental and physical discipline. Now she not only looks better, she feels better as well! Read on for how Tracy eats, exercises, and thinks her way to better health.
  
  
• Sanni’s weight loss success through calorie-counting, exercise, and blogging
  Sanni gained a lot of weight during her pregnancy but most of it is just a memory now, thanks to a combination of low-calorie food and exercise. Read on to learn how Sanni crafted a weight loss method that fits into her lifestyle and how she uses her blog as a motivation for exercise.
  
  
• By using her common sense, Sandra achieved the weight loss she wanted...and became healthier, too!
  For Sandra, popular weight loss programs didn't bring the results she wanted. With the help of weight management experts, in addition to embarking on a healthy diet and a fitness regimen, she brought her weight down to its current level--and she's thrilled with it! Having the right mindset and doing even small things the right way has given her the physical and mental psychological benefits that come with following a healthy lifestyle.
  
  
• Cory has started her journey to a slimmer body and better health with the help of Weight Watchers and a few other weight loss and fitness tools
  Cory has been following several weight loss methods for a couple of months now, Weight Watchers among them, to help her lose weight. Included in her daily regimen are exercise and other fitness activities. But her support community and her positive mindset also play major roles in her journey to better health and improved self-esteem
  
  
• By cutting down on portions and exercising, Nicole is well on her way to reaching her weight goal
  Nicole’s weight-related health problems are now a thing of the past as she works to achieve her target weight. Being more nutrition-conscious, watching food portions, exercising, and keeping herself motivated have produced positive results for her.
  
  
• Kris is reaching her weight loss goal through exercise and sensible eating habits
  Common sense when it comes to eating and exercise are keeping Kris on the path to losing weight, and she's certainly succeeding. That's not to say temptation to stray from her healthier eating habits don't come her way, but keeping her goal in sight is helping her stay motivated. Her goal, by the way, isn't just weight loss and better looks. More than those, her goal is to maintain a lifestyle that keeps her in the peak of health.
  
  
• Eric is more fit and living healthier thanks to the New Black Cultural Diet Program
  Culture and health are important to Eric, and the New Black Cultural Diet Program bridges both issues for him. Losing weight, having a better quality of life through nutrition and exercise, and keeping himself motivated are important parts of his life. Becoming different for the better is a decision that he does not regret, and it's a lifestyle plan to which he has pledged commitment.
  
  
• Changing his diet and exercise have brought Dave very close to his weight loss goal
  Changing his diet and being physically active are the major components of Dave's weight loss program, one that's been successful for him. He's hovering at a level near his target weight, and he doesn't plan on stopping what he's doing anytime soon. His method is accessible to almost anyone, since it's inexpensive and practical. Dave also shares some of his insights and tips on losing weight.
  
  
• The importance of adaptability and emotional understanding in Bathsheba's weight loss journey
  Being in the right emotional and psychological condition is a vital part of losing weight, as Bathsheba has discovered. She takes care of her body by eating right and engaging in more rigorous physical training; she motivates herself by making her weight loss program a fun experience. Here, she talks about the importance of self-honesty and gives some tips on dealing with internal and external changes.
  
  
• Dea's losing weight and bringing out her healthier, happier self in the process
  The determination to stop missing out on things in life was one of the reasons for Dea's decision to lose weight once and for all. Like many other individuals, she is following her own weight loss regimen, one that she believes suits her best. It isn't just her diet that she's changing, as you'll read below. Mental changes are just as important as physical changes in a person's weight loss journey and lifestyle transformation.
  
  
• Overcoming setbacks is part of Metamorphose's weight loss journey
• Jacquelyn's losing weight through portion control and exercise
  Diet and exercise are only two parts of Jacquelyn's weight loss program. Successfully dealing with the stress that leads to overeating is another. Read on for more of Jacquelyn's story and some of her weight loss tips.
  
  
• Simone's weight loss: Getting there with diet and exercise
  Simone isn't going through her weight loss journey alone. She's doing it with her husband, and they're both going about it with the help of a nutritionist. Diane shares the early part of her experience, the importance of certain reading material, and gives advice on the mental challenges that come with losing weight
  
  
• Weight loss for Lady Rose is straightforward: Just DO IT!
  Ready-made commercial diets didn't work for Lady Rose, so she devised one that works for her: responsible eating and physical activity. This isn't to say she hasn't faced hurdles. But her commitment to better health helps her to overcome them. Focusing not on numbers but on becoming healthier is what she advises others to do.
  
  
• Podcasting and calorie reduction in Anna's weight loss regimen
  "Slimming is simple – eat less calories than you are using on a daily basis." These are the words that are the cornerstone of Anna's journey to lose weight. Here, she shares how watching her calorie intake and keeping herself accountable online through podcasting and blogging have helped her lose much of those extra pounds in less than a year.
  
  
• Low-carb programs and the Power90X diet: the past and present of Carol's weight loss journey
  Carol's health problems do not get in the way of her determination to reduce her body fat and gain muscle mass. Through persistence, discipline, a low-carb diet and the Power 90X diet and exercise program, she's been doing just that. Read on for more of how she improved her functional fitness as well as some of her weight loss tips.
  
  
• Better blood pressure levels and better health for Joel through weight loss
  Losing weight was important for Joel, but it wasn't the only factor he needed to become healthier. Just as important were the need to reduce body fat and to adjust his way of thinking about his body image. Here he describes the nutritional aspects of his own weight loss program, his exercise habits, and what motivates him to stay on track.
  
  
• Inner change and wellness: Spirituality's central role in FatBlokeThin's weight loss journey
  Important as they are, physical fitness and improved eating habits aren't the only components of Nigel's healthier lifestyle. This man, who's more popularly known as FatBlokeThin in the blogging world, makes spirituality the cornerstone of his own weight loss regimen. Read on for more about how inner change leads to external change for Nigel, the exercises he does, and his tips on losing weight.
  
  
• For Robin, low-carb isn't just a weight loss diet but a change to a new lifestyle
  Robin's decision to switch to a low-carbohydrate food plan has certainly brought about a solution to her weight loss problems, and it's a solution that fits easily into her lifestyle. Her adherence to the Atkins plan -- and more recently, Kimkins -- plus her devotion to Taebo exercises have brought the results she wanted. Robin shares the elements of her success, elements that may motivate others in their own efforts to lose weight and become healthier.
  
  
• Portion control, exercise and motivation: The keys to Sara's weight loss success to date
  Removing unhealthy food from her diet is a constant challenge for Sara in her weight loss journey. But exercising, changing her food habits, and keeping herself accountable through blogging are all getting her to where she wants to go -- towards a healthier lifestyle.
  
  
• Beth is well on her way to her target weight with exercise and the basics of the Slimming World weight loss program
  Beth loves her carbs and not totally eliminating carbohydrates from her diet hasn't hindered her weight loss progress. By following the basic principles of Slimming World and staying physically active, she is now a stone's throw away from her goal. Beth describes some of the challenges she faces as she loses weight and a number of her motivations that help keep her on track.
  
  
• Going on a low-carb lifestyle and working out are major factors in Deb's weight loss success
  Deb made the decision a few years back of taking control of her weight and health, and she hasn't looked back since. Controlling her carbohydrate intake and doing Firm workouts have made her look and feel better. Read Deb's story to learn more about her low-carb lifestyle and exercise habits, and gather some weight loss tips as well.
  
  
• Jan's successful weight loss through common sense, eating for health, exercise, and determination
  Looking good and feeling better is what Jan is achieving with the weight loss method she's following. To stop looking like "an egg with legs" takes some discipline, and here she shows us what she does to lose weight: from the types of food she eats to her exercise routine. Jan also shares some weight loss tips that have worked for her and which others may find helpful.
  
  
• All or nothing: Tim's weight loss philosophy
  Tim doesn't follow any of the commercial weight loss plans, but monitoring his calorie intake and exercising are working for him. So does keeping himself accountable to his Internet readers. Read on for some of Tim's story, tips, and how he tries to help others with their diet and exercise lifestyle change.
  
  
• Vilma's weight loss through balanced food habits and exercise
  Losing weight isn't a picnic for many people, and Vilma's no exception. But with her unwavering determination to change to a healthier lifestyle, she's losing the pounds she can do without. Vilma discusses her favorite physical fitness activities, the mental and emotional issues she encounters on her journey, and the things that keep her motivated.
  
  
• Calorie-counting and self-discipline in April’s weight loss journey
  April has nearly reached her goal of losing 20 lbs and this she did through a combination of weight loss techniques such as Slim Fast, Smart Ones, and physical activity. See how April monitors her calorie intake and makes sure she eats healthy without depriving herself.
  
  
• Doing her own thing: Shauna's weight loss adventures
  It isn't surprising that someone who writes a blog called "The Amazing Adventures of Dietgirl" would have quite a few weight loss tips to share, and Shauna does just that here. Along with exercise and good eating habits, she found that a mindset change and a bit of patience have led her to not only her target weight but to a healthier lifestyle that she plans to maintain for life.
  
  
• HalfMan's giving 100% to weight loss and healthy living
  Deciding to follow his common sense, not fad diets, works best for HalfMan. Here he shares some of the techniques he's been using for the past seven months that helped him lose almost 100 pounds, his motivations, and his tips for adapting to a healthy and fit lifestyle.
  
  
• Christin's eye-opening journey to weight loss and better health
  Losing a large amount of weight within a short amount of time isn't necessarily a good thing, as Christin discovered. Here, this low-carber talks about her weight loss journey, including her Kimkins diet experiences, and shares the lessons she's learned about the relationship between health and good eating habits.
  
  
• Muata's low-carb way to weight loss, health, and fitness
  The amount of weight Muata lost since embarking on a low-carb lifestyle in 2003 is significant, but what's even more important is that he's losing bodyfat, not muscle. He shares with us many practical tips he's learned on his journey to better health, including the importance of exercise, calorie control, and the necessity of educating ourselves about how safe weight loss occurs.
  
  
• Kate's low-carb weight loss method: Her journey to better health
  A low-carbohydrate diet, exercise, and motivation are the key components of Kate's weight loss method and lifestyle change. Low-carb is her way of eating and she plans to stick with it for life. She shares some of the difficulties of leading this kind of lifestyle, as well as the personal joys and rewards she has experienced because of it.
  
  
• Sarah's weight loss through healthier eating habits and exercise
  The insights in the book "The Ultimate Weight Solutions," by Dr. Phil resonated with Sarah, and adapting its principles helped her on her way to losing weight successfully. It isn't an instant fix and it isn't effortless, but it's something that has helped her improve her eating habits, and thus, her health. Add strength training to the equation and the journey becomes more enjoyable for Sarah. Read on for a lot of Sarah's weight loss tips, all taken from her own experience.
  
  
• Self-discipline and self-esteem in Kendall's weight loss journey
  Kendall's successful weight loss involves the following: common sense, self-discipline, self-accountability. Shedding the kilos her way has brought results that are fun (the ability to fit into the clothes she loves) and more profound (better health). A lifelong commitment to healthy eating and exercise is what she's made, with no regrets.
  
  
• Carb cycling: Big Daddy D's weight loss method
  "Be flexible and experiment to find what works best for you" is advice that Big Daddy D followed and which he now gives to others who are trying to find a good weight loss method. Carb cycling helped him lose a large amount of weight and it's a plan he will continue to follow until he reaches his goal. Read on for more information on Big Daddy D's low carb program, his weight loss motivations, and his maintenance plans.
  
  
• Briana's calorie-counting and positive mindset for healthy weight loss
  After trying several weight loss programs, Briana decided to go with one that she feels best doing because it works the best for her. It isn't about being a militant dieter; she watches what she eats, monitors her calorie intake, and makes healthy food choices. Finding healthful foods to eat has become an interesting adventure to do regularly, along with engaging in physical activities and staying motivated.
  
  
• Low-carb weight loss for fab & fit mom Barbara
  A low-carb diet, exercise and the "I can DO this!" attitude are going a long way towards Barbara's achievement of her weight loss goal. She tells us about her dietary and physical fitness regimens, and advises people not to look for diets per se. It's better to go instead for a lifestyle change that can be followed wholeheartedly and successfully for life.
  
  
• Katiep’s taking the last steps to her weight loss goal with Body for Life
  Body for Life has been helping Katiep rethink her way of eating and monitor the type and amount of food she eats. This, along with strength training, is helping her achieve her goal to be slimmer and healthier for life. The journey hasn’t been trouble-free, though. Being overweight doesn’t affect just the body, it affects the mind too, and Katiep shares how it influenced her perception of herself despite her success.
  
  
• Allen's successful journey from fat to thin: His weight loss story
  Emotional and spiritual healing and development - those were the major factors that helped Allen lose weight and are still helping him keep it off. Here the author of the book "Hungry: Lessons Learned on the Journey from Fat to Thin" describes his road to self-empowerment and his passion for helping other people deal with the desire to overeat, a problem that he still experiences but which he conquers every day.