Archives | Weight Loss Stories

Real Weight Loss Stories | Amanda Allan

Posted on March 23, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

I had a baby five years ago and realized that I wasn’t going to be able to get the weight off without help. I had a back problem that was headed towards surgery, and my doctor had said that I needed to lose weight. None of my clothes fit and I was just miserable. I also suffer from Ulcerative Colitis. Both the back problem and the UC meant occasional doses of steroids, which led to my weight gain. It became a vicious cycle of meds, weight gain, depression and inactivity that led to more weight gain, more back pain, and resumed medication use.

I started the Greenlite Medicine program on Friday, August 13, 2010 (lucky for me); and I weighed even more than I thought—192.7 pounds; my BMI was 29.3; and my body fat was 41.7 percent! I couldn’t have done it without the support of my health educator Elaine. She has been amazing, straightforward; and has lots of tips for helping me (like lemon in my water bottle, as lemon and water both have clarifying actions in the body; and acts as a natural detox). Being held accountable every week has made all the difference in the world. Also, having a list of foods I could get easily from Trader Joe’s has really been helpful.

Before I had a family of my own, I had successfully completed Jenny Craig—but that didn’t help me in the real world. You can’t eat packaged meals when you have a child; it was finally time for me to learn how to eat properly.

Honestly! I had tried everything else! The idea of initial help with medication appealed to me; but, the fact that this program isn’t over once you lose the weight was also a big factor. My real journey is beginning now—re-introducing regular eating into my diet and helping to plan my life after my diet.

Now that my back is better because I weigh less, I work out about 4 times a week with cardio interval training, and lift weights twice a week. I can go to the park, play ball, and chase after my daughter on her scooter. Going to the gym has made a huge impact not just on me physically, but emotionally. I walk my child to and from school whenever I can and take the stairs rather than the elevator whenever possible. A new Ipod shuffle was one of the non-food rewards I bought myself and I loaded it with my favorite upbeat tunes that helps keep me motivated during my workouts.

My back doesn’t hurt all the time; I can be up and about with my daughter. I’m not laid up for weeks on end. Even more significantly, since I started with Greenlite, I have realized that my UC outbreaks weren’t due to dairy products (which I can now eat in moderation); but rather due to processed carbohydrates (cookies, crackers, white bread, pasta, rice). Since I cut down the consumption of processed carbs from my diet, the UC flare ups have totally gone away. This in turns means no steroids to control the outbreak, and no weight gain! Greenlite has empowered me to break the vicious cycle of meds, weight gain, depression and inactivity, through mindful eating.

The two day protein only has been a fantastic help when I get off track (and I still do!).

The biggest impact for me was seeing my before picture, yes I looked significantly heavier but it’s the expression on my face that struck me, I looked miserable. And I was—from going to the closet every day and having to struggle into clothes, to not being comfortable standing for long periods of time. Also, being laid up for weeks at a time because my back had gone out, and having to take more medication. Everything is better now. My UC is not flaring – I can eat dairy in moderation and I’m happier. This is by no means the end of my struggle; I will have a lifelong battle with food and emotional eating but I’m on the right path. Greenlite doesn’t just take my after picture and send me on my way; they continue to support and guide long after the “goal” weight has been achieved. That was super important to me; I need this to not be a diet, but a lifestyle change.

Real Weightloss Story | Surai Jones

Posted on February 24, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

I have Type II diabetes and weighed 204 pounds after giving birth to my second child. My primary care physician was adamant that I lose weight and do so quickly given my family history of heart disease and early heart failure.

I started the Greenlite Medicine program on December 6, 2009, and from the moment I arrived, the Greenlite staff members were completely focused on and dedicated to ensuring my weight-loss success; and by February 16, 2011, I had lost a total of 25 pounds. My favorite staff members are Maria, Elaine and Dr. Rugh. Unlike my previous experience with nutritionists (18 months of weekly appointments prior to Greenlite), I looked forward to my weekly appointments.

I met with Dr. Rugh during my first visit. She really took the time to understand and asked questions specific to my concerns and my history. There were of course the standard forms and questions to fill out but Dr. Rugh seemed to genuinely want to know what made me tick and made recommendations specific to my preferences. Other places talk the talk about how they “customize” their treatment plans, but after my first visit with Dr. Rugh, I felt confident that Greenlite would treat me as an individual and not just a number.

Within a month or so on the Greenlite treatment plan, I experienced a major change, one that I’ve never experienced before. I had a new sensation every time I sat down to eat. That sensation was a feeling of not wanting to clear my plate. Since childhood, I’ve always cleared my plate and eating seconds or thirds was almost a daily habit. My appetite had shrunk to the point where I didn’t have to force myself to stop eating. I would, without feeling deprived, just voluntarily push my plate away. I am so grateful to have reached this milestone in my life.

Another major change is that I am more aware about my level of energy and stress. I now rest rather than push through my exhaustion. I’ve come to realize that resting plays a major role in restoring my mood and keeps me from overeating. I used to overeat when I felt fatigued and used this feeling to rationalize my indulging in food.

My workout regimen consists of working out four to five times a week, where I enjoy taking group exercise classes, running and swimming. I also discovered the value of strength training; and in just one month, I gained five pounds of lean body mass and lost five pounds of body fat by taking classes at the Bar Method studio. I also enjoy Zumba and other forms of fitness dance and will be getting certified as an instructor in March. And after the weight loss and feeling more confident about my fitness, I am eager to resume scuba diving, another activity that I gave up when I gained weight. My favorite places to travel are: Paris, NYC, Fiji, Half Moon Bay, and Santa Cruz (my local sanctuary).

Real Weight Loss Story | Anne Rhein

Posted on February 10, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

It all began in February 2005, when I had my second mammogram at the age of 41. I received a call the next day to get a second look. “No need to worry”, I was told. So I went back for a follow-up. I was called again and asked to come in for a needle biopsy and once again told “no need to worry”. I got a call later that evening from my doctor; her first words were “it’s not great news”. After hearing those words, I felt I was listening to the teacher from Charlie Brown…all I heard was “wa wa wa wa”, my face got hot and I remember telling the doctor to repeat everything to my husband because I didn’t hear a word she said other than “cancer”.

I was fortunate because it was caught somewhat early. I received four rounds of chemotherapy and a mastectomy. I decided at that time, I was going to live my life to the fullest and did not want to deny myself of anything. I have always been a very social person with many wonderful friends who also wanted to deny me of nothing. If I wanted to drink wine to temporarily escape the fear of having cancer, we did. I could polish off a bottle myself if need be. I also ate out often; it was something to look forward to and friends often brought meals throughout the week. There wasn’t anything I said no to.

Before I was diagnosed, I weighed about 145 pounds and was rather muscular. I have always thought of myself as a healthy person, and was a swimmer in high school and college. During the last five years of denying myself nothing, I managed to creep up to 170 pounds on my 5’5” frame. The final scare came this past summer when I had a test that came back inconclusive. I was told while on vacation in Tahoe with family and friends, that through various tests, they had found a mass on my liver. Breast cancer was bad enough, but I really believed this was it for me. I had a PET scan and then a follow-up biopsy of my liver. It turned out to be a hematoma (a non-cancerous spot). I realized at that time, I needed to stop living as if I were dying, because if I continued my habits I really would. I wanted my old life back, the one before cancer and that’s what I have done!

I joined a weight loss class with my son and I lost 15 pounds in six months. It worked well, but very slowly, and then I managed to gain back 5 pounds. I had two friends who were on the Greenlite Medicine program at the same time I was doing the class with my son. They were losing and I could really see the amazing results; and it was quicker for them. I found it funny that one of my friends didn’t want to share how she was doing it. It was like her little success secret that she didn’t want to share with her friends. We had our ways of finding out!!!

I started the Greenlite program in August 2010, but was a little concerned about starting while my kids were still on summer vacation since we enjoy eating out as a family. I met with a couple different health educators at Greenlite and was unclear that I could pick one person to work with; I thought it was whoever was there when I was there. I felt like I was telling my story over and over. This happened for about three sessions until I realized I wanted to work with Elaine. Not only does Elaine have my mother’s name, who passed away many years ago; but it’s also my best friend’s name. She was like a supportive “very young mother” to me. I liked her warmth and true compassion right away. Elaine never rushed me on the days I needed a little extra attention or motivation, and never kept me longer than needed if I just wanted a quick consult. Elaine follows through with emails when I need information and lets me know she is always there for me. We all need an Elaine in our lives…

At the time I started Greenlite, I decided to get serious about exercise, I have always been rather competitive, so I decided I would be much more committed if I shelled out the big bucks for a personal trainer. He was just the perfect match for me; he pushed just enough and because I was paying him money, I felt even more accountable to not miss one session (whatever it takes right). I am now in a group class (less expensive, competitive and fun; but still needing and wanting someone to stand over me and push me).

I have enjoyed how I look; my face is much slimmer and skin healthier. My body looks and feels strong and healthy. I carry myself with more confidence and I am noticed. Don’t get me wrong, I am very happily married, but it is still fun to be noticed. I enjoy buying clothes and like my extra energy. I am happy to be drinking more water (in the past wasn’t always easy) and little alcohol. Now I’m saving drinks for special occasions not as an escape.

My family has been amazing. I have a son graduating from high school this year and heading off to college and another son entering high school. My husband and I want to take them on a memorable trip this summer, we are thinking of Costa Rica.

I have a sweet tooth and found some amazing handmade sugar free/low carb candies at a market by my house. They don’t make me feel deprived. I take them when I go out with my friends and they order dessert.

I started in August at 160 pounds, and am now in transition at 136 pounds, a number I thought would be unobtainable at 47 years old. Truly such a nice group of ladies at the Greenlite office ….thank you!

Real Weight Loss Stories | Spotlight on Dawn Haney

Posted on January 12, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

I decided to seek help with weight loss for the overall goal of feeling better about my health and having more energy. I realized I was limiting myself to social invites from friends because I had low self-esteem due to my weight gain over the past few years.
My acupuncturist, Ted Ray, referred me to Greenlite Medicine and I started the program on June 28, 2010. Holly, my health educator, and I clicked immediately and I knew she was the right person to meet with me weekly. Holly encourages me even when I may hit those small plateaus and offers alternative options to try.

I had grown skeptical of weight loss plans and if they would actually work for “me”. Over the years, I had tried everything from Weight Watchers to physician monitored liquid diets and each time gained all of the weight back within a year. I picked Greenlite because the plan uses real food, is physician and nutritionist monitored and is simple to follow. I researched reviews on Yelp as well. I am impressed with the personable staff, from the nutritionists to the front desk, everyone is always available to answer any questions or offer tips on recipes. As an added bonus my medical Flex spend plan is also covering the cost.

Before Greenlite, I had been working out 4-6 days a week for years, but the scale never budged. After signing up with Greenlite, I also consulted with a personal trainer at my gym. I schedule my workouts daily, otherwise it would be too easy to skip the gym. I love the circuit and spin classes because there are other people in the group, and that makes me feel more accountable. Three years ago I never would have thought I would be doing a spin class, but now I really look forward to it.

Weekly workout routine:

Monday – Circuit 45 minute class

Tuesday – 1 hour spinning class

Wednesday – either 45 minute circuit or 1 hour session for TRX with a trainer

Thursday – 1 hour spin class

Friday – 1 hour personal training session

I tend to walk on the weekends

Working out has become a lifestyle change and I really do look forward to it, at least most days…grin.

My eating habits have changed drastically as well. I tend to grill all of my meats and veggies; it’s quick, easy and no added fat. I mix a little Greek yogurt with a tablespoon of hummus for a vegi dip. The recipes I have tried and use regularly from Greenlite are the pumpkin pie (I make it in individual ramekin cups), the green beans with citrus and almonds, the egg muffins and the meatloaf (put into muffin tins for easy individual servings). I also always weigh ALL of my proteins.

I cook cedar plank salmon once a week and mix fresh dill with Greek yogurt and lemon for a yummy garnish.

My nightly treat is either sugar free Jell-O, the Greenlite hot cocoa with a little whip cream or an apple with Better than Peanut Butter (a tasty spread with lower fat/sugar than PB), you can only get it at Trader Joe’s.

As a reward treat when I hit 40 lbs. I treated myself to a “mini” Kara’s Cupcake on Santana Row. It allowed a splurge, but I didn’t feel guilty on over indulging with a full serving of a dessert.

It may sound vain, but for the first time in my life I actually fit into brands of designer jeans! I have gone from a size 16 to an 8 so far and my personal goal is to lose one more size. I bought my first pair of True Religion jeans; when I tried them on in the past I couldn’t even get them past my knees. I have also been looking forward to more social activities with old friends, where in the past I would have declined because I felt down and had nothing to wear. I took all of my “fat” clothes to the Goodwill and consignment stores, a total of 20 bags to date. I don’t want the big clothes to fall back on. It’s been fun buying new styles of form fitting clothes. I set a reminder to clean out any too big clothes every 6 weeks and donate them.

I work remotely and recently attended my company holiday party in San Diego. Everyone was shocked at the change in my body/appearance. It was nice to hear people asking how they could do it as well. It’s also refreshing that for the first time in many years, my New Year’s resolution will not be to lose weight and go to the gym, I am ahead of the game this time.

I have never been a fan of the scale, but now weigh myself every day. It keeps me accountable and I think I will continue to do that even after maintenance. I have worked too hard to let the weight come back again, I am 100% motivated to keep it off for the long term.

Real Weight Loss Stories | Spotlight on Frances Walker

Posted on January 12, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

On July 3, 2010, my family and I were celebrating my grandson Jordan’s second birthday. I’m usually the one taking pictures at family functions; but, I wanted to help the birthday boy open his gifts, so I handed the video recorder to my sister so she could tape it. Later that night, we were watching the video and I was shocked…no I was horrified at what I saw. The clip of me helping Jordan open gifts was my eye opener. I was huge. No, I was gigantic. I was the Titanic in white Capri’s and sandals. I knew I had gained weight but I had no idea it was that much or how bad I really looked!!! I thought to myself…IS THIS HOW PEOPLE SEE ME?

Hi, my name is Frances and I’m 46 years old, divorced after 23 years of marriage, a mother of three grown children and four beautiful grandchildren. In 2004, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, a common condition characterized by long-term, body-wide pain and tender points in joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues.

I made a lifestyle decision to join Greenlite Medicine on July 20, 2010, a week after the “birthday video eye opener”. I first heard about Greenlite on KRTY’s biggest loser competition. My initial phone call was with Meredith and my experience talking with her can be compared to chatting over coffee with an old friend and not a pushy sales person. She gave me the information I needed and let me make the decision to join. Everything about Greenlite excited me, so I knew in my heart that I was doing the right thing. My budget also liked that I didn’t have to sign a long term contract. The program made sense to me and I could easily see the benefits of losing weight through the Greenlite program.

I kicked off my weight loss journey with Nancy, my Health Educator in the San Jose office, and by my fourth week I had lost more than 16 pounds! Nancy’s support was a crucial part of my success. She cheered me on during the good weeks and kept me accountable and motivated to stay on program when I was stressed. We discussed life challenges, food options and ways to keep on track. As my health educator, Nancy has not only become my support system, she’s also become a friend. It’s so obvious how much she and the Greenlite team care about my weight loss by how supportive they all have been throughout the entire process…they have really guided me on my voyage to becoming a NEW THINNER HAPPIER me.

After losing 40 pounds with Greenlite, my Fibromyalgia no longer ails me and I can do things without pain that I couldn’t do at a heavier weight. And, I have tons more energy now. Power Walking is by far my favorite way to exercise! I have a treadmill with Jillian Michaels iFit program. It’s low impact, fast and usually fits into my busy schedule.

Another aspect of the Greenlite program that I liked is that I didn’t have to buy prepackaged food. Greenlite offered me the best recipes. The low carb chili is awesome! I make it with ground turkey and enjoyed every bite of it. Growing up in a middle class southern home every meal had potatoes, beans or pasta. It was a low cost way to feed a large family on a small budget. I’ve learned that I don’t need to buy pasta or potatoes to eat on a minimal budget. I just need to buy smart. I look for cheaper alternatives like buying lettuce by the head and not prepackaged. I no longer buy prepackaged one-pan-frozen-meals. I learned to save time by making two salads at dinner time, one for dinner tonight and one for my lunch tomorrow. Little steps that make a big difference…

Before my journey with Greenlite I was tired all the time. On my days off I didn’t even have the energy to do laundry or cook meals for my family. Forty pounds lighter and I’m the first one out of bed in the morning. My children are as excited about my weight loss, and note the changes in me every time I see them. Thank you to Greenlite for being there during every step of my journey.

Real Weight Loss Stories – Spotlight on Ian and Zoe Bagger

Posted on December 12, 2010 by GreenLite Medicine

Bagger Before After

Greenlite: Tell us why you decided to seek out help with weight loss.

Zoë: I actually did not come to Greenlite for the purpose of weight loss. I came because I was looking for a job. It was really my husband who had been complaining about his own weight. I figured I would be able to lose weight as a “perk” of the job.

Ian: I had spent the preceding several years lamenting my weight gain, but with no clear plan about what to do about it. When my wife got the job at Greenlite, we both decided to work the program. So, for me, the opportunity to pursue weight loss in a structured environment really fell in my lap.

Greenlite: How would you describe your experience with Greenlite Medicine?

Zoë: I started working for Greenlite Medicine on May 21^st, and I officially started the program on May 25^th…well, more like May 26^th. I have to admit that I left work on the 25^th and headed straight for McDonalds! But the morning of the 26^th, I came to work resolved to work the program. It really helped that my husband was working the program with me, even though he did not officially start until later in June. My regular educator is Nancy. What I particularly enjoy about working with Nancy is her sense of humor. I always feel optimistic after meeting with her, and she is always quick with praise for my weight loss.

Ian: I started following the program at home with my wife. I did not come in for my official new patient visit until June 24^th. Something that STILL drives my wife crazy is that we didn’t think to put me on a scale in May, because by June, it is certain I had lost weight, but we have no idea how much. My favorite staff member at Greenlite is my wife, Zoë – I am not just saying that to avoid the couch! I genuinely feel that I would not have been able to lose the weight as quickly as I did without the support of Zoë. Apart from Zoë, I have interacted most frequently with Maria. As an educator I have found Maria to be kind, supportive, and knowledgeable. On those occasions when I have hit a plateau, or even gained weight, her approach has been pragmatic and non-judgmental.

Greenlite: Tell us about your exercise regime.

Zoë & Ian: We both do yoga very regularly, and when the weather gets nicer, we hike and ride our bikes. The only tip I have if you are struggling to exercise is this – Do it with someone. You are losing weight for yourself, but if someone is relying on you to do it with them, it will help you to succeed as well. Ian has incorporated much more walking into his daily commute to work in San Francisco, skipping the bus from Caltrain to the Financial District.

Greenlite: What physical or lifestyle change do you especially appreciate since starting the program?

Zoë: I think the physical change that is the most exciting is that I am so much smaller. I can see my chin…and there is only ONE! My husband tells me that my eyes look bigger, and more than one person has told me I look younger, which is okay by me. As far as a lifestyle change, I am eating well and exercising regularly which are obviously the most important changes. On a lighter note, I find myself wanting to go clothes shopping A LOT MORE!

Ian: I was quite surprised when, upon beginning the regular water intake that Greenlite prescribes, my chronic lower back pain subsided considerably. I also find that my energy level is consistent through the day since I have eliminated sugary snacks from my diet.

Greenlite: Tell us about any hobby’s you have, sports you play, special talents, places you like to travel to, etc. and how have these changed since beginning the Greenlite program?

Zoë & Ian: To be frank, for the two of us as a couple, our habits were largely sedentary prior to commencing the Greenlite program. Our weight gain could be largely attributed to that fact. Our activities were predominantly low-energy – reading, enjoying movies, and so on. So since beginning our weight loss, cycling and hiking have become significant hobbies for us, and we find ourselves getting cranky when we don’t get our exercise in for whatever reason. As a result of the increased role of exercise in our lives, our flexibility and endurance have improved markedly, and our moods have actually become more generally positive.

Greenlite: What is your favorite recipe or food tip or trick you’ve learned since working with Greenlite?

Ian’s tip: Mild salsa makes a great salad dressing with no fat. I make a salad out of baby spinach leaves, grilled shrimp and salsa.

Zoë’s tip: Get your husband to make shrimp and spinach salad for you.

Greenlite: Is there anything else you would like to share that would be beneficial to others?

Zoë & Ian: Nobody ever talks about it, and it may be more than you hoped to know, but we think we speak for a broad sample of couples when we say: couples who share in weight loss also enjoy improved sexual intimacy.

Real Weight Loss Stories | Spotlight on Lea McIntosh

Posted on November 23, 2010 by GreenLite Medicine

I spent my entire twenties trying to figure out how I could lose weight and keep it off. I tried everything from obsessively exercising, calorie restrictive diets such as Jenny Craig and even participated in a weight loss study with Stanford Hospital. While some of it provided results, because I wasn’t really given the tools and guided how to permanently make a change in both my eating and lifestyle habits, the weight loss was never for very long. Along came my thirties and I had the good fortune of hearing a friend’s testimonial of Greenlite Medicine.

In August 2008, I was meeting a close friend regularly for business and within three weeks she had lost 17 pounds. Huh? It sounded too good to be true! I asked her a lot of questions about both her diet and the program. In the back of my mind, as she was telling me all of the details, I was thinking, it must just be HER luck. Then, I saw her again two weeks later, and her total weight loss was already 25 pounds! So, I thought to myself, this can’t just be luck, there has got to be something to this program. Hmmmmm… At that point, all I could think about was how happy I would be if I could lose that same amount of weight in only 5 weeks. She had seriously caught my attention and got me thinking. After much debate with “myself,” I decided to give it a try. A week later, I made the phone call to Greenlite Medicine. I am so grateful I did, because I have lost 85 pounds and have been able to maintain the weight loss for over two years!

I started the Greenlite Medicine program in October 2008. While everyone has been amazing and supportive, I have truly enjoyed working with Maria Sayare and Dr. Sooji Rugh. They have been there for me through my most frustrating moments to my most celebratory “scale” moments. I am not sure if I would have had it in me to succeed without their support. In their own quiet way…they didn’t let me get away with anything, which is really what you need to succeed outside of the program. At the end of each day, only one person is accountable, YOU. This is what I have had to learn to make this a lifestyle change.

The most challenging part for me has been finding an exercise regime and figuring this part out is the last leg of the journey. I am still trying to find what works best for my body and my schedule. I am a goal-oriented person, so it is easy to feel like I have failed when I don’t keep on track. Recently, Maria said to me, “just showing up is the WIN.” She was right. Whether it is 10 minutes, 20 minutes, or an hour, it is really about just getting out there and moving. When I do get out there and move I like to combine cardio and weight lifting. I use Oxygen Women’s Fitness magazine, The Women’s Health Big Book of Exercises, and Fitness Builder iPhone app for inspiration.

http://www.oxygenmag.com/

http://www.amazon.com/Womens-Health-Big-Book-Exercises/dp/1605295493

http://www.pumpone.com/

The change I have most appreciated is the change in my body size. I went from a size 24W to a regular size 10/12. My choice for clothes has expanded greatly. I am learning to love wearing cute clothes more than loving to eat tasty treats. And have learned how to turn those tasty treats into healthy snacks.

I went from hating yogurt to LOVING Fage greek yogurt! This is a nearly everyday staple in my diet now. There are a few things I like to do:

Add a tablespoon of Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Butter to a Fage yogurt cup. It’s like eating pumpkin cheesecake!
Add three tablespoons of PB2 to a Fage yogurt cup. Sometimes I have a peanut butter craving.
I have created Greek Yogurt Dip Recipes. My favorite is Herbed Buttermilk, but some may like to spice it up and make the Smoky Chipotle. Read the full article and learn from Dr. Sooji Rugh why Greek Yogurt is so good for you! http://nestingnewbies.com/2010/09/smoky-chipotle-greek-yogurt-dip/

Since I lost weight I have been on the most incredible journey!! With my new found confidence and renewed self, I launched a website and online magazine called www.NestingNewbies.com

offering a fresh take on cooking, entertaining, and decorating for those who are new to nesting. I am getting a chance to meet new people, share cooking ideas and inspire others and so far we can’t keep up, since our fans are asking for more! More than anything, I am now getting a chance to do all the things I love!

Real Weight Loss Stories – Spotlight on Tim Sweeney

Posted on November 9, 2010 by GreenLite Medicine

My friends were concerned that I was eating myself into an early grave. I was at risk for just about every negative condition under the sun, and a stressful year of unemployment led to serious binge eating as a coping mechanism. When I saw them at Christmas time, my friends didn’t have to say anything, but I could tell the sadness in their eyes.

One of my friends is a doctor herself, and I asked her on that visit if there was any way out. I’ve felt as though I had zero willpower my entire life when it came to food, and I was hungry all the time except when stuffed. She had researched programs in my area, and told me about Greenlite Medicine in glowing tones.

I began Greenlite on 2/16/2010 and the dramatic change in diet suggested that this was a very different program. The aggressive and no-fudging plan gave me a clarity and focus I had never had before. I was losing from the first week on, and I realized that as long as I kept on that course I did not need to worry about making the right decisions.

My weight-loss educator, Nancy, has always been behind me with encouragement and steady support. Even after the week-by-week progress began to feel routine to me, she and any of the other staff who saw me would take the time to be complimentary, and to remind me that I didn’t always perceive the rather dramatic shifts that were ta king place.

I have a very simple exercise routine. I walk lots. I started out getting tired just walking over to pick up lunch, and it felt like taking the time to walk up and down all the aisles of every store I entered was enough exercise for the first few weeks. I kept increasing the amount of time I walked, the frequency, and then, lastly, the pac e. Now I do a 4 mph walk with arm weights for an hour every weekday at lunchtime, and I do much longer walks (10-12 miles) on the weekends going to all the interesting places around town. It’s free and I got to know a lot more about the area as I did it!

Before Greenlite I would require at least 9 hours of sleep to feel even remotely rested. I was terrible during the mornings, and on the weekends I could easily sleep half the day away. Since Greenlite I not only have more energy during the day and have no need for caffeine, but I don’t need anywhere near as much sleep to feel rested and at peak condition.

Those are precious hours I’ve gotten back in my day.

Real Weight Loss Stories | Merissa Candelaria’s Evolution

Posted on October 20, 2010 by GreenLite Medicine

There were many reasons why I decided to seek help with weight loss. First, it obviously was not working trying to do it by myself. I needed the support and guidance from someone else. When I heard about KRTY’s Biggest Loser competition, I knew that this was what I needed. After doing the research on Greenlite, I was optimistic that the program could and would work for me.

We started the Biggest Loser competition on March 9th, and from the second we walked into Greenlite Medicine, it was clear that everyone was there to help. The support you get is what really helps get through the program. Nancy was one of the educators that I saw regularly. I remember on the first week, I lost 11 lbs, and just started crying. She started crying with me, she knew exactly what I was feeling, and it was an amazing!!! To date, in 6 months I’ve lost 69.5 pounds!

Getting out jogging with my kids is one of my favorite things these days. They love being outside, so anytime I take them to the park I bring my 5 lb weights and just do a few reps. Just getting little workouts in whenever I can, it actually gives me more energy throughout the day and just helps me feel really good. I love to dance, even going out at night to dance, I feel like I have so much more energy, and just have more fun in general.

Everyone at Greenlite was just as excited as I was about my nearly 70 pound weight loss. All the educators are there to give you any support and guidance that you need. From recipes, to food options, and making sure that you are eating enough. It’s hard to believe that sometimes you need to be eating MORE!!

It is a totally unbelievable feeling, to know that I have actually achieved this goal. Especially something that is such a struggle for me and so many people. It is so awesome to be able to go into a store and fit into normal sizes and feel good about yourself. Shopping has become so much more fun. Having the energy to keep up with my kids is something that I appreciate so much. Wanting to get out, and take them out, brings joy to me on a daily basis. When people I haven’t seen in a while notice my weight loss, it really makes all the hard work worth it.

Everyone at Greentlite reminds me of how awesome I am for getting to where I am today, and that is a great feeling. I know that this life change is something that I needed, and I cannot express my gratitude to Greenlite for their assistance in this journey. Their program, is something that really works, and has given me a new look on life.

Real Weight Loss Stories – Spotlight on Greg Melton’s Journey

Posted on October 12, 2010 by GreenLite Medicine

Greg Melton - Before and After

Before working with Greenlite Medicine, Greg had been under a doctor’s treatment for high-blood pressure and diabetes. He had tried different weight loss plans over the years, but was discouraged with his progress and gave up. He felt completely apathetic and unmotivated.

In August of 2008, under threat of becoming an insulin-dependent diabetic, he turned his life around. He started eating a balanced diet, exercised regularly, and enlisted the support of his friends and health care providers.

His journey included the realization that in order to be successful he had to take responsibility for his actions. He also made a choice to have a healthy relationship with what he ate. An important part of his life was his relationship with his grandmother. They spent much of their time together baking cakes and treats. He learned he didn’t have to give up the memories by giving up the baked goods.

Greg surrounded himself with supportive people and adopted a no excuses attitude. He committed himself and never wavered.

As of this August Greg has lost 110 pounds, has been taken off his blood-pressure and diabetes medication, and has completely reversed his previous medical risks. His new life includes real food diet, exercise, and most importantly a positive outlook!