Transformation of the Day: Beverly lost 34 pounds. After years of attempting but failing to reach her health and appearance goals, she got a wake-up call in the form of a diabetes diagnosis. In the Q&A, she shares how working with a nutritionist and a personal trainer gave her the guidance she needed. At 61 years young, she is thriving.
Age: 61
Height: 5’10”
Starting Weight: 209 pounds
Current Weight: 175 pounds
Social Media:
Facebook
What was your motivation?
Honestly, I wanted to look better for decades. I had been playing around with being prediabetic and slightly elevated cholesterol for about a decade. But when the diagnosis turned into full-blown diabetes, that was my wakeup call. I started thinking seriously about the cost of medications, extra doctor visits, how diabetes would impact my lifestyle, and the ripple effect of meds leading to more meds.
I’ve always been active and made countless attempts at reaching my desired goals, usually stopping just shy by neglecting something small but crucial like staying hydrated or not eating well-rounded meals. Deep down, I also struggled with that myth about African American women being “prone” to being overweight. People would say, “You carry it well,” but I never truly felt satisfied with my appearance.
When I saw the Fitness On Fire Online Training ad on Facebook, especially the incredible transformations of African American women, I was intrigued. Then came the real shift: my conversation with Nia, the NutritionistGuru. The program had every component I needed. The intake questions made me face myself honestly. I started comparing my current habits with what I knew I should be doing. Also, I realized that I had choices: Pay for meds and doctors or pay for a program that could change my life.
What inspired you to start your weight loss journey?
It was my health, plain and simple. But Fitness On Fire Online Training and NutritionistGuru‘s structure gave me the confidence to finally change my lifestyle. I was on a travel assignment and happened to pack a uniform and a pair of size 10 skinny jeans that were way too small. That “accident” turned out to be divine alignment. I needed them as part of the program requirements. Self-reflection questions, having a goal outfit and jeans, the starting picture, guidance, support, and the variety of tasty, healthy food options enhanced my motivation.
How did you change your eating habits?
I’ve got a wide palate, so trying new things wasn’t a problem. My biggest challenge was cutting back on sweets and snacks, but I was pleasantly surprised at how many healthy alternatives I actually enjoyed. If I didn’t like something, it found a new home in the breakroom.
I leaned on pre-made salads and cooked lean proteins during busy weeks. I learned how to prep meals that froze well and stayed delicious.
I started eating more fruits and veggies and even learned what seasons they taste best in. If life happened and I went off plan, I didn’t beat myself up. I just got back on track asap. I even planned for special occasions and picked the healthiest food choices at the event.
What did you stop and start eating?
Started eating:
- Multigrain crackers
- Rye & pumpernickel bread
- More fruits and vegetables
- Cottage cheese with fruit
- Healthier popcorn
- Lamb, scallops, seafood
- Lite dressings (like Ken’s Raspberry Walnut Vinaigrette)
- LOTS more water
Stopped eating:
- Sugary overpriced coffee
- Candy bars & chocolate
- Butter, egg yolks, ranch dressing
- Pork, beef, bacon
- Pancakes, high-fat popcorn
- Sweet tea, sodas
- Unhealthy breads, Town House crackers
- Pizza, chips
- High-fat dressings
I basically followed the structure the NutritionistGuru gave me!
How often did you go to the gym?
I went 4–5 times a week. Even with that, I still saw the scale drop and my clothes fit better. I know I would’ve hit my goals even faster had I stuck to the full plan, but working the night shift threw me for a loop.
How long did your transformation take?
I lost about 22 lbs in the first 2 months. After that, the weight came off slower, but the change in how my clothes fit kept me going. In total, I’ve lost 34 lbs. While the night shift slowed my progress at times, I stayed consistent and the results speak for themselves.
10. What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
Believe in yourself and get real about what you want. Weigh the pros and cons, pray, keep the faith, and work for it. I’m no longer diabetic. I feel amazing, and strangers literally stop me in stores to compliment me.
Go into your closet, pull out all those tag-on clothes you’ve been holding on to, and get ready for the ultimate shopping spree—right at home.
Why did the “Fitness On Fire” program work for you versus others?
It’s all about the structure. The before, during, and after reflection, the realistic lifestyle adjustments, the accountability, the flexibility to work out at my own pace—and most importantly, the care and compassion. It’s not just a program—it’s a total transformation from the inside out.
On the real: Trust the process. Follow Nia and Fire’s guidance. The Fitness on Fire Online Training Program truly works.
Disclaimer: Reference or link to any specific product, diet plan, exercise plan or service mentioned in the weight loss stories we share is for the information of our readers, and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Black Women Losing Weight.
