Transformation of the Day Update: In 2018, Melissa shared how she lost 30 pounds. This proud mom of two recently reached out to share that she’s brought that total to 45 pounds by staying active and finding budget-friendly ways to eat healthier food, and realizing that food is not the enemy.
Social Media:
Facebook: melissa.slone.7
What has motivated you to continue your transformation journey?
My two children have definitely been part of my motivation this time. The first time around, I wanted it for myself. This time, it’s been mostly for them. I don’t want to be the mom sitting on the side because I’m tired. I want to be the “get up and go” mom. I love being active with my children.
My husband is also my number one cheerleader. He’s been very supportive and has been on the wagon with me to be healthier for our children. Currently, I’m back down to my pre-baby weight. I would love to get another 35 lbs off and tone up, but I’m truly happy to have gotten this far.
How did you change your eating habits? Currently, I eat a high-protein, low-carb, low-fat diet. I stay away from red meat as much as possible. No soda. No coffee. No processed foods. No junk. If I absolutely want something, I have it in moderation.
A lot of times, I eat my meals using my kids’ divided toddler plates. They are great for portion control. All my food is weighed and measured, and I track my calories. I stick to clean eating as best I can, eating fresh fruits and vegetables. My meals consist of mostly lean meats, chicken, and turkey. I love to grill up salmon or shrimp and toss it into a nice salad.
I always remove the skin from salmon. I also have to be really careful about fat intake. In 2024, I had to have my gallbladder removed, and there are so many things that my body does not tolerate. Eating the wrong food will make me miserably sick for hours.
What is your workout routine? I mostly walk with my dog at least once daily, but sometimes, I walk 2-3 times. So I typically get at least a mile walk in 4-5 days a week. In between, I enjoy lifting weights, my stationary bike, and pilates. I’m always moving!
I’m a stay-at-home mom. My day starts at 5:00 am. I’m up before everyone else. It ends shortly after ten, last to go to bed. During that time, it’s rare for me to sit. I’m always cleaning, doing laundry, walking the dog, doing something in the yard, running errands, etc. There’s always something to be done. Honestly, some days, I’m too busy to work out. Running after a four-year-old and a six-year-old keeps me pretty busy.
What was your starting weight? 234 pounds
What is your current weight? 189 pounds
What is your height? 5’2″
When did you start this segment of your journey? October 2024
How long did your transformation take? Three months
Is weight loss surgery part of your journey? Absolutely not! If it’s up to me, I hope I never have to have another surgery in my life!
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far? Food isn’t the enemy. Food is our friend. While I do love food, I eat to live, not live to eat. If you change your mindset, you won’t even crave the junk. You won’t look for it when you grocery shop.
Grocery shopping is a whole new ballgame for me these days. I’m focused on fresh vegetables, fruit, and lean protein. You do not have to spend hundreds of dollars weekly on groceries to eat healthy and lose weight. Typically, I can keep my grocery bill under $120 a week for my family of 4, and 95% of my shopping is done at Aldi! Aldi is my jam! Aside from the farmers market and what I grow in my yard, it’s the best produce in town.
What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight? Don’t wait for people to do it with you. Don’t wait until after the holidays. Just do it!
Meal plan! I understand there are days when you are tired. I know there are days that you don’t want to cook or worry about eating healthy, and it’s quicker to grab takeout. But have a plan for that too! My favorite treat is when the kids want Chick-fil-A! The 8-piece grilled nugget with the kale crunch salad is hands down how I treat myself!
