My confidence level has improved 100 percent. I feel healthy and good about myself.
I first went to the Duke Diet & Fitness Center (DFC) in 2001. My sister was the first to go, and she kept telling me how great it was and urging me to try it…so I did.
In the five years that I've been following the DFC program, I've lost a total of 90 pounds so far. I've gone from a size 20 down to a 10! Plus I have lower blood pressure; it's at a very healthy level now.
The great thing about the DFC is how much you learn. They tell you everything you need to know, from how your metabolism works to what your goal weight should be to how many calories you should be eating. The knowledge DFC gave me — especially about nutrition — has really helped me continue to lose weight and keep it off. I didn't know anything about what I was putting into my body before the program. Now I'm aware of what I'm eating. I ask for dressings and sauces on the side, and I've eliminated fried and creamy foods.
Exercise has really helped, too. I started working out with cardio a couple months before starting the program and just kept it going afterwards. I try to get to the gym at least four or five days a week, doing cardio on the elliptical. I love taking the classes at the gym — it's easier just to let someone else tell you what to do, for how long, and how to do it!
My confidence level has improved 100 percent. I feel healthy and good about myself. I can go into "regular-size" clothing stores and know that something will fit. Plus, I can climb a flight of stairs without getting winded. I feel lighter, like there is less strain on my back and legs. And I'm just happier in general!
Best compliment: People tell me I'm so beautiful, I look so great. I love the reactions from people who haven't seen me in a couple of years the best — it's a face of surprise mixed with confusion and disbelief!
Favorite snack: Low-fat cottage cheese with jam.
Advice to others following the Duke Diet program: Don't let setbacks bring you down — it happens! Plus, always remember that you can eat anything in moderation and not feel guilty about it.
*Results not typical.