Self-described “couch potato” trades fast food for fast feet

Who hasn't flopped on the couch with the remote in one hand, and a pint of ice cream in the other? But what happens when that becomes the norm?

Jennifer Guyton of Cape Coral, Fla., would say that's the definition of a couch potato. She should know. After a lifetime of struggling with her weight, she rarely had the energy or motivation for activities. Instead, she'd hang around the house and eat junk food. She eventually tipped the scales at 230 pounds.

The worst part: This routine wasn't fair to her two children, ages 15 and 5, because she didn't want to leave the house. Her kids never went to the pool or park. She didn't even have the energy to play with them at home.

Jennifer knew she had to change, and set a healthy example for her children. She tried several diet programs, without much success. Undaunted, when she heard about L A Weight Loss, she signed up at her local Fort Myers center.

There Jennifer learned how to incorporate vegetables, fruits, and lean protein into her diet, while cutting back on junk food, breads, and pastas.

With help from her personal L A Weight Loss counselors, Jennifer stuck to this healthy regimen. The pounds started dropping, and before long, Jennifer hit her goal weight of 162 pounds!

Jennifer felt so good with her new physique, she took it on the road -- literally -- and started to run. Gradually, she worked up to running three miles ... then six ... then nine, three days a week. She combined that with a bike ride four days a week.

It gets better. Jennifer ran her first 15K in April. Final time: 1 hour, 44 minutes. Now she's preparing for her first half-marathon in January. Once that's behind her, Jennifer will tackle a triathlon!

Chasing the runner's high has put Jennifer in excellent shape, and given her a special gift: the energy and strength to play with her children. No more couch potatoes here! Great job, Jennifer.

Here's Jennifer at a spuddish 230 pounds:



And here she is at a zippy 162! You've reached the finish line, Jennifer! Congrats!



FAST FACTS

Name: Jennifer Guyton
Hometown: Cape Coral, Fla.
Age: 34
Height: 5'5"

Starting weight: 230 pounds
Goal weight: 162 pounds
Current weight: 162 pounds
Program start date: February 2006

Favorite food: Sweets, though she rarely eats them now.

Biggest temptation: Junk food such as cake and donuts.

Biggest motivator: Getting encouragement from her kids.

Biggest obstacle: Finding time to exercise while working full time and caring for two children.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever she wanted, and buying whatever looked good at the grocery store.

New eating philosophy: Steering clear of chips, junk food, and greasy food, and enjoying vegetables instead.

Best thing about losing weight: Increasing her activity and energy levels, and playing with her kids.

Best weight loss secret learned: Don’t get frustrated. Slip-ups are not permanent!

Marathon man races toward new start

I've always wondered why someone would want to run a marathon. A lot of people I know don’t even drive 26 miles in a day.

Ben Shanahan can tell you why he runs marathons: to stay fit. But two years ago, he was far away from being able to leg out the distance.

With a diet that focused on candy and beer, he weighed 338 pounds. His blood pressure was high, and his doctor diagnosed him with borderline hypertension.

Ben was concerned about his and his family's future. He tried dieting, but couldn't figure out how to stick with a plan or limit his intake of his favorite calorie-laden foods.

Then he found L A Weight Loss in September 2005. At first, he was concerned about the number of women perceived to be on the program. But once he joined his local center in St. Cloud, Minn. and started working with his personal counselor, Ben was hooked.

He learned portion control and how to structure his eating plan so that he could still enjoy a beer every now and then. That was the winning combination that enabled him to drop nine pounds in the first week -- and 65 in six months.

Then, inspired by his wife's running of Grandma's Marathon in Minnesota, Ben started running too. He ran several 5Ks, and then a half marathon in April. In that race, he far exceeded his goal of 2 hours and 10 minutes with a time of 2 hours, 3 minutes, and 25 seconds.

Ben's weight continued to drop, and now he's down to 216 pounds -- nine pounds less than his goal weight.

Hot stuff, Ben! Now he’s eyeing his first marathon on Sept. 9. Great job, Ben, and good luck in the race.

This is Ben in summer of 2005:



Now, here is Ben in tip-top running shape at 210 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Ben Shanahan
Hometown: Becker, Minn.
Age: 26
Height: 5'11"

Starting weight: 338 pounds
Goal weight: 225 pounds
Current Weight 216 pounds
Program start date: September 2005

Favorite food: Bread with peanut butter and honey.

Biggest temptation: Chocolate.

Biggest motivators: Lowering his blood pressure and running a marathon.

Biggest obstacle: Learning how to stick with a weight loss plan.

Old eating philosophy: Skipping breakfast, eating a big dinner, and washing it all down with beer.

New eating philosophy: Eating five small meals a day and exercising.

Best thing about losing weight: Having the energy to run 15 to 20 miles a week.

Best weight loss secret learned: You can eat anything and still lose weight. It's all about portion control and making smart choices.

Life after abuse: Mona Valdez's inspiring story

One in four women in the United States reports being abused in a physical, sexual, or emotional way by a partner or spouse, according to the American Medical Association.

That's a sobering statistic, especially when you consider the consequences of abuse -- injury, disability, homelessness, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and even death.

Mona Valdez knows the dangers of abuse all too well. She became involved with an emotionally abusive partner when she was just 16. She had her first child with him two years later.

That pregnancy kick-started Mona's weight gain. She went from a 120 to 218 pounds in under a year. Two more pregnancies pushed her over 250 pounds.

Mona desperately wanted to shed the weight. She tried everything, from pills to fasting to exercise. Nothing worked. She spiraled into depression and anxiety.

Finally, after 14 painful years, Mona separated from her abusive partner, and began the long road back to reclaiming her life. The first step: regaining her health.

Mona heard about L A Weight Loss success stories, but was skeptical. What could this program do that others could not? But with her weight at 280 pounds, and her emotional state at an all-time low, Mona decided to give it a try.

She teamed with personal counselors Roberta, Adriane, and Jo in January, 2006. They showed her how to eat the right foods in the right portions, and offered encouragement when her determination dipped. Mona loved how they were always there for her.

The teamwork paid off. One year later, Mona lost over 100 pounds -- and is still going! She's now 180 pounds, with 50 to go before she hits her goal weight of 130. And Mona is confident she'll do it.

Even better, her new positive outlook spread throughout her life. Mona's now happily married to a wonderful man who "loves her no matter what [her] size is."

We're proud of you, Mona! Keep up the great work!!

Here's Mona at a dizzying 280 pounds:



And here she is 100 pounds lighter! Way to go, Mona!



FAST FACTS

Name: Mona Valdez
Hometown: Greeley, Colo.
Age: 34
Height: 5'5"

Starting weight: 283 pounds
Goal weight: 130 pounds
Current weight: 180 pounds
Program start date: January 2006

Biggest motivator: Wanting to live for her children.

Biggest obstacle: Overcoming an abusive relationship.

Old eating philosophy: Eating sweet cereals like Coco Puffs and Lucky Charms, and having four slices of pizza instead of one.

New eating philosophy: Achieving the right balance of vegetables, fruit, fiber, and lean protein.

Best thing about losing weight: Having the energy to spend time with loved ones.

Best weight loss secret learned: If she can do this, anybody can. Losing weight will give you back your life!

Divorce starts a new chapter for eager dieter

We all know life has its highs and lows. One serious downer: going through a divorce. But people who view life with the glass half-full can see divorce as an opportunity for a fresh start.

For Beth Eager, her divorce was an eye-opening experience. She realized she was ending one chapter of her life, and beginning a new one.

But in February 2006, visiting the doctor in the midst of her divorce, this neo-natal nurse was surprised to learn she weighed 199 pounds. She was also diagnosed as pre-diabetic, and her blood pressure was borderline high.

Scared into action, Beth walked into the Sioux Falls, S.D., L A Weight Loss center, eager to get started. She'd been dieting on and off since she was 10, and had tried several options that just weren’t for her.

But L A Weight Loss’s one-on-one counseling was the missing touch -- she lost nine pounds in just the first week! Since then, Beth lost 44 pounds on her way to her goal weight of 132. She also stopped eating greasy fried foods, and her favorite: McDonald’s double cheeseburgers with fries.

She now dines on fish and lean meats, and snacks on fruits and vegetables. The best part: She feels great about herself, and looks smokin' on the back of her new boyfriend’s motorcycle!

Congratulations, Beth! You’ve had quite a ride!

Here’s Beth at 199 pounds:



And here she is in a stunning black ensemble at 155!



FAST FACTS

Name: Beth Eager
Hometown: Luverne, Minn.
Age: 50

Starting weight: 199 pounds
Goal weight: 132 pounds
Current weight: 155 pounds
Program start date: February 2006

Favorite food: Chicken.

Biggest temptation: Hamburgers.

Biggest motivator: Starting a new life after her divorce.

Biggest obstacle: Finding a diet program that worked for her.

Old eating philosophy: Binging on greasy foods.

New eating philosophy: Incorporating more fish and chicken into her diet.

Best thing about losing weight: Looking great on her boyfriend's motorcycle.

Best weight loss secret learned: Find a plan that works, and stick to it.

Don't fry your weight loss plan this Memorial Day weekend!

The official bell of summer is about to ring: Memorial Day! It's time to kick back, soak up the sun, and enjoy family and friends' company.

It's also time for barbecues, which means high-calorie, high-fat temptations. But I'm making it easy to serve up a healthy summer-kick-off weekend with these simple recipes and cooking tips that are sure to please everyone at the party.

While you're cooking, remember that many tasty fresh fruits and vegetables are now in season, so it's easier than ever to incorporate them into your meals.

Also, plan activities during your barbecue -- like frisbee or tag football with the kids -- to get your daily dose of exercise and burn some calories.

So light the burners -- it's time to get a healthy summer cooking!




Vegetable Pasta Salad

1 cup zucchini or yellow summer squash, sliced
1/2 medium green pepper, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/3 cup cooked pasta, such as macaroni
2 Tbsp. white wine vinegar
1/4 tsp. dried dill
1/8 tsp. salt
Freshly ground pepper
1 small tomato, chopped

Coat a large skillet with nonfat cooking spray. Sauté squash, green pepper, and garlic over medium heat until crisp-tender. Add macaroni, vinegar, dill, salt, and pepper to vegetable mixture; toss to combine. Top with chopped tomato. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Servings: 1
Serving size: 1 recipe

TIP: Vegetable salad is a great alternative to calorie-laden salads such as potato salad, macaroni salad, and coleslaw.



Beef Kabobs

Juice from 1 orange
1 Tbsp. brown sugar artificial sweetener
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
4 or 6 oz. sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch pieces (size according to plan)
1/4 medium green pepper cut into 1-inch squares
1 cup zucchini or yellow squash cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 medium red onion, cut into 1-inch squares

Mix orange juice, brown sugar, and ginger. Add beef and pepper; stir to coat meat. Cover and marinate for 1 hour in refrigerator. Drain reserve marinade. On a skewer, alternate beef, pepper, zucchini or yellow squash, and onion, leaving 1/4 inch between pieces. Place kabob on broiler pan. Brush with marinade. Broil 4 inches from heat about 8 minutes, or until desired doneness, turning and brushing kabobs with marinade while cooking.

Servings: 1
Serving size: 2-3 kabobs

TIP: Kabobs are a great way to incorporate a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables into your day.



Steak Burger

Part 1: Hamburger Patty

1 pound lean ground sirloin
3 Tbsp. dried onion
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1 Tbsp. water
1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper

Mix all ingredients together. Form into patties. Broil 3 inches from heat until desired doneness. Place any uncooked burgers in freezer bags, seal well, and freeze up to 3 months.

Part 2: Steak Burger

Hamburger patty
1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
Green peppers, sliced
Onions, sliced
2 tsp. steak sauce
Nonfat cooking spray

Coat small skillet with nonfat cooking spray. Place mushrooms, garlic powder, pepper, and onion in skillet; sauté until vegetables are fully cooked. Place vegetables on top of burger. Drizzle steak sauce over burger and veggies.

Servings: 1
Serving size: 1 burger

TIP: Choose lean cuts of meat, such as 90 percent lean ground beef.



Lemon Herb Marinated Chicken

1 Tbsp. canola oil
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1/2 tsp. rosemary
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper
6 or 8 oz. boneless-skinless chicken (size according to plan)

Mix oil, lemon juice, rosemary, pepper, and salt. Pour over chicken. Allow to sit 30 minutes. Remove from marinade. Grill or broil. Serve hot, garnish with fresh lemon slices.

Servings: 1
Serving size: 1 piece of chicken

TIP: Grilling and broiling are healthy alternatives to frying because they reduce the amount of cooking oil you use.



Grilled Corn on the Cob

6 ears of corn
6 tsp. lite margarine
Salt to taste
Freshly ground pepper

Peel corn, remove silk, wash well, and pat dry. Preheat grill to medium. Place each piece of corn on an individual piece of aluminum foil. Spread 1 tsp. of softened lite margarine over each piece of corn. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Wrap each piece of corn tightly in aluminum foil. Place on grill; cook approximately 25 minutes, turning occasionally until corn is tender.

Servings: 6
Serving size: 1 ear

TIP: Corn on the cob is nutritious, but watch how you top it. Season with spices instead of butter.



Lemon Glazed Cheesecake

Part 1: Cheesecake

2 (8 oz.) packages fat-free cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup artificial sweetener
1 Tbsp. flour
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. fresh lemon peel, finely grated
1/2 cup fat-free sour cream
3 egg whites
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 cups berries of choice

Blend first 5 ingredients with electric mixer. Blend in sour cream and egg whites. Spray 9-inch pie pan with nonfat cooking spray; sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs. Pour in cheese mixture and bake 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 3 hours.

Part 2: Lemon glaze

1/3 cup artificial sweetener
1 1/2 Tbsp. arrowroot or cornstarch
1 1/2 Tbsp. fresh squeezed lemon juice
1/2 tsp. fresh lemon peel, finely grated
1/3 cup water

Stir in sugar substitute and arrowroot or cornstarch together in a small saucepan. Then add the lemon juice, lemon peel, and water. Whisk until smooth. Heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is clear and thick. Spread evenly over cheesecake; allow to set at room temperature, briefly. Top with berries. Cut pie into 8 slices.

Servings: 8
Serving size: 1 slice

TIP: Using low and nonfat ingredients is a great way to enjoy your favorite desserts without breaking your weight loss plan.

Bride-to-be commits to weight loss

There's not a woman on the planet who doesn’t want to look her very best the day she says "I do." But for overweight women, it’s often the occasion that makes them say "I don't" to their extra pounds.

This was the case for Julia Stoy. She was 23 years old -- and 230 pounds heavy -- when she said "yes" to fiance Nathan.

Losing weight had always been on Julia's mind. But it was never a priority until she was diagnosed with high blood pressure and dangerously high cholesterol -- conditions she believed a young person shouldn't have to face.

Julia also watched her mother struggle with diabetes for years, and feared she was headed down the same path.

This fear, coupled with her engagement to Nathan, motivated her to join L A Weight Loss and get healthy. Julia joined the program in September 2005, a month after her engagement, and lost five pounds in the first week!

She incorporated healthier foods into her diet, such as eating yogurt for breakfast instead of sugary cereals or frozen breakfast foods. And for dinner, she substituted extra portions of vegetables for the dinner rolls she usually ate.

Sticking to the plan, Julia lost more weight, and soon discovered she could cross her legs. She also felt more comfortable wearing professional clothes to work. And she had enough energy to exercise by walking and lifting weights three to four times a week.

Best of all, Julia looked fabulous on her wedding day in October 2006, when she strutted down the aisle over 50 pounds lighter!

Now, at 173 pounds, she's well on her way to her 160-pound goal weight. Her husband is proud of her accomplishment, and notices his blushing bride is much happier, more confident, and more energetic, too.

Keep up the awesome work, Julia!

Here is Julia at 230 pounds with Nathan:



And here she is last summer. You look great, Julia!



And here are Mr. and Mrs. Stoy on their wedding day. Good luck, you lovebirds!



FAST FACTS

Name: Julia Stoy
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
Age: 25
Height: 5’7"

Starting weight: 230 pounds
Goal weight: 160 pounds
Current weight: 173 pounds
Program start date: September 2005

Favorite food: Apples dipped in peanut butter.

Biggest temptation: Chocolate.

Biggest motivators: Fearing health problems, and wanting to fit into a smaller bridal gown.

Biggest obstacle: Working long hours, which kept her from exercising.

Old eating philosophy: Eating healthily during the day, then binging at night.

New eating philosophy: Spreading out meals during the day, and eating starches earlier in the day.

Best thing about losing weight: Shopping for new, smaller clothes.

Best weight loss secret learned: Weight loss is easy when you eat the right portions from each food group.

New mom delivers on second chance

No woman wants to look at old pictures and hear this from her husband: "Gee honey, you used to be hot." Used to be hot? Ouch.

But that's just what Holly Nissen's husband, Aaron, said to her while looking through old photos from their high school days.

Holly was 23 years old, and weighed 200 pounds. She was an RN, working 12-hour shifts that strained her back, put pressure on her knees, and hurt her feet. But the physical pain was nothing compared to the emotional pain of living in a sluggish body that didn't match her bubbly personality.

Holly hated the way she looked, and buried her depression in food. And when she gained more weight, she just ate more to deal with the unhappiness.

When Holly became pregnant with her first child, it was an excuse to eat whatever she wanted. However, the fast food binges and pasta cravings quickly caught up with her.

One week before her due date, Holly felt very dizzy and achy. Not sure what was wrong, Aaron took her to the hospital. Her weight registered at 255 pounds, and her cholesterol at 236 -- much too high for herself and her baby.

Holly stayed in the hospital overnight for observation, and was released in the morning. But that was the scare Holly needed.

She realized how unhealthy she was, and how much she was risking her baby's life as well as her own. She didn't want her son to pick up her bad eating habits. Also, Holly and Aaron wanted more children, but didn't want to go through another unhealthy pregnancy.

So Holly vowed to start losing weight as soon as her doctors said it was OK.

Holly delivered her baby on Dec. 31, 2005. Five months later, she joined the Fargo, N.D., L A Weight Loss center weighing 216 pounds. She was at first skeptical of "another diet," but knew L A Weight Loss was right for her when her counselor Haley said she'd be eating real foods in the proper portions.

Holly began eating fish, vegetables, salads, and chicken. She lost 48 pounds, and reduced her cholesterol to 206 before becoming pregnant again at the end of last year. At 168 pounds, Holly started her pregnancy on a much healthier note.

The upshot: Holly is relieved of her aches and pains -- both physical and emotional. Aaron is very proud of her, and tells her every day how beautiful she is.

She feels she has so much more to live for now, and with another baby on the way, she does! Holly is the happiest she's ever been! Congratulations, Holly!

Interested in learning more about Holly's story? Read the personal letter she sent 16 weeks into her weight loss program, when she lost 32 pounds. It's an inspiration for new moms and moms-to-be everywhere!

This is the unhealthy Holly before, weighing in at 216 pounds:



And here she is at 168 pounds. Way to go, Holly, and best of luck with the bundles of joy!



FAST FACTS

Name: Holly Nissen
Hometown: Fargo, N.D.
Age: 27

Starting weight: 216 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 168 pounds
Program start date: May 30, 2006

Favorite food: Salmon.

Biggest temptation: Fast food.

Biggest motivators: Her husband and her new baby.

Biggest obstacle: Having to tell her family about the program in order to have a support group.

Old eating philosophy: Piling on the McDonald's, pasta, casseroles, and canned vegetables.

New eating philosophy: Eating fresh vegetables, fish such as salmon and tilapia, proteins, and salads.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling like an entirely new person, and having energy after 12-hour workdays to spend time with her family.

Best weight loss secret learned: Don't hesitate to talk to your L A Weight Loss counselor and ask for help if you have questions. That's what they're there for!

High blood pressure: a force to be reckoned with

It's National High Blood Pressure Education Month, so there's no better time to raise awareness about preventing and controlling high blood pressure (also called "hypertension").

And with one-third of American adults living with the condition -- most of whom don't even know it -- the pressure is on to get their numbers down (no pun intended).

The reason is simple. Blood pressure is the force of blood against artery walls, and it's what moves blood through the body.

But when that force gets too high, the heart has to work harder to overcome resistance, which hardens artery walls. And that can lead to kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke.

Many people know one way to lower blood pressure is by limiting their intake of salty and high-fat foods. But more can be done.

My colleague Janelle and I buzzed Dr. Boyd Lyles earlier this week, and learned more techniques to lower blood pressure, and prevent it from building in the first place.

Dr. Lyles tells all in the podcast, so listen, learn, and lower your numbers!

Gym teacher gets schooled in weight loss

It's common for physically active people to think they can eat whatever they want. Yet many of them tire easily, and aren't as lively as they could -- or should -- be.

Melanie Edmonds found herself in this condition. She had been teaching physical education for 34 years, which required constant activity during class periods.

However, Melanie's energy was low, and she began to suffer from high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Still, she never thought it could have anything to do with her high-carb diet of pizza, sandwiches, and pasta.

It was only when Melanie returned from summer vacation one year that the lightbulb went off. Two teachers, who had been heavier than she was, came back to school looking thinner and healthier.

Their secret: eating the right combination of foods and the right portions on the L A Weight Loss plan.

Melanie never believed that diets would work for her, but seeing was believing. Inspired by her colleagues' results, she joined the Fort Myers, Fla., L A Weight Loss center in October 2005, weighing in at 157 pounds.

Working one-on-one with her L A Weight Loss counselor, Melanie soon replaced her high-carb diet with fish, vegetables, salads, and chicken. And for breakfast, she ate yogurt and fruit.

The hard work paid off. A year and a half later, Melanie surpassed her goal weight of 136 pounds!! She now weighs 133 pounds, and feels younger than her 59 years.

Plus, her blood pressure and her cholesterol are down. That means her health is back on the fast track, making her feel better than ever!

Terrific work, Melanie!

Here is Melanie before at a sluggish 157 pounds:



And here she is after, fighting trim at 133 pounds!



FAST FACTS

Name: Melanie Edmonds
Hometown: Fort Myers, Fla.
Age: 59
Height: 5'7"

Starting weight: 157 pounds
Goal weight: 136 pounds
Current weight: 133 pounds
Program start date: October 2005

Favorite food: Trout.

Biggest temptation: Donuts.

Biggest motivator: Wanting to look good in the shorts she wore every day.

Biggest obstacle: Believing that diets wouldn't work for her.

Old eating philosophy: Consuming a lot of pasta and other high-carb foods.

New eating philosophy: Making fish, vegetables, salads, and fruit a part of her meals.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better about her health.

Best weight loss secret learned: It's important to drink water.

"Queen of Sweets" gives her health the royal treatment

Sweets are a common temptation for many people struggling to lose weight. But they were more than that for Margaret Mondragon, as she gorged on cookies and ice cream daily.

She called herself the "Queen of Sweets," but it was really the cakes and cookies that were in control -- until she found the way to defeat the enemy.

Margaret had a petite, 5'2", 97-pound frame as a teenager growing up in Corpus Christi, Texas. Then she had her first daughter, Monica, at age 17. Her weight crept up a little. She went from a size 16 girls before pregnancy, to a size 13 juniors afterward.

Margaret had her second daughter Amanda five years later. Then, four months after she gave birth, her doctor discovered her colon was lined with millions of polyps. If Margaret didn't have surgery right away, she wouldn't live to see 30.

She was rushed into surgery, and had her colon removed. But it was such a shock for her body that her thyroid became inactive. Her metabolism dropped, and over the years, the pounds came on.

Her intense cravings for sweets didn't help matters. She considered her daily intake of cookies, cakes, donuts, and ice cream one of her food groups. Margaret also developed arthritis in her knees, and just wanted to sleep all the time.

Then one day last year, Margaret stepped on her scale. She was shocked when it read 250 pounds. She was bigger than her husband!

She had heard about L A Weight Loss's one-on-one counseling and real-food eating, and thought she'd give it a try.

Margaret joined the San Antonio center, and worked with her personal weight loss counselor, Michelle, to transform her eating habits. She still has a "sweet" food group, but now it includes fresh fruits and no cookies or cakes. She also drinks at least 64 oz. of water daily.

All told, Margaret lost 111 pounds, and is now down to 139 pounds. She weighs less than her husband again, and she's showing it off!

You can find her running 5k's (her fastest time is 37 minutes and 51 seconds for "Race for the Cure"), and playing basketball and soccer with her 11-year-old grandson Andrew.

Plus, her arthritis is gone, and her metabolism has increased. Margaret also motivated three friends to join L A Weight Loss, and get their health back on track. This queen really has conquered it all! Congrats, Margaret!

UPDATES: Margaret's husband recently bought a motorcycle and the couple enjoys riding it together. He refers to her as his "teenage-college wife" -- which Margaret loves!

Margaret also just ran in the Beach-to-Bay Relay Marathon in Corpus Christi, and finished her 4-mile leg in 51 minutes and 47 seconds without skipping a breath. She says she owes her accomplishment all to L A Weight Loss. She's already created a team for next year’s race!

This is Margaret before, at 250 pounds:



And this is the new Margaret, regal at 139 pounds. WOW! Great job, Margaret!



FAST FACTS

Name: Margaret Mondragon
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
Age: 49
Height: 5'2"

Starting weight: 250 pounds
Goal weight: 130 pounds
Current weight: 139 pounds
Program start date: Jan. 18, 2006

Favorite food: Seafood.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Watching the pounds come off each week when she weighed in.

Biggest obstacle: Overcoming cravings for sweets, and fighting hypothyroidism.

Old eating philosophy: Consuming lots of cookies, cakes, ice cream, and soda.

New eating philosophy: Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and water into her diet.

Best thing about losing weight: Weighing less than her husband.

Best weight loss secret learned: You can lose weight by replacing cookies and cakes with fruits. They're sweet like candy without the calories.

The Bosses give their extra weight the pink slip

Ask parents what they fear most about raising kids, and they are sure to say outliving them. Burying a child, no matter how old, is the most heart-wrenching experience anyone can go through.

Suzanne and King Boss of London, Ontario, can certainly relate to those feelings. Two years ago, the couple lost their 43-year-old son, Bill, in a tow truck accident -- and with it, their appetite for watching their health and weight.

Soon, Suzanne reached 206 pounds, and King reached 258 pounds. But it wasn’t until King suffered a heart attack during Christmas in 2005 that the couple decided to commit to losing weight. After all, they wanted to be there for their five other children and eight grandchildren.

The couple joined L A Weight Loss in March 2006, and completely turned their eating habits around. They went from heavy helpings of bacon and eggs for breakfast, and hamburgers and French fries for dinner, to cereal for breakfast, and chicken, fish, and salads for dinner.

The result: Suzanne dropped to 147 pounds, while King’s crowning achievement was dropping to 197 pounds -- all in just a year!

Even better, Suzanne reached her goal weight last September, right in time for their son’s wedding. She also went from size 16 to size 8, while King lost 8 inches off his waist, and now sports size L pants instead of XXLs.

The couple is ready to spend their retirement years swimming, taking long walks together, and enjoying their grandchildren. Congrats, Suzanne and King!

Here are the Bosses at the beginning of their weight loss journey. Suzanne is at 206 pounds, and King is at 258 pounds.



And here they are quite a few pounds lighter! Suzanne is at 147 pounds, and King is at 197 pounds. You look great!



FAST FACTS

Name: Suzanne Boss
Hometown: London, Ontario
Age: 64
Height: 5'3"

Starting weight: 206 pounds
Goal weight: 156 pounds
Current weight: 147 pounds
Program start date: March 1, 2006

Favorite food: Vegetables.

Biggest temptation: Hamburgers.

Biggest motivator: Attending their son's wedding in September 2006.

Biggest obstacle: Staying away from restaurants that were once old favorites.

Old eating philosophy: Eating any food in sight.

New eating philosophy: Reading every label carefully before buying it.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better about herself and shopping for new clothes.

Best weight loss secret learned: A good way to sustain yourself until dinner is to have a bottled water and apple.



Name: King Boss
Hometown: London, Ontario
Age: 70
Height: 5'9"

Starting weight: 258 pounds
Goal weight: 185 pounds
Current weight: 197 pounds
Program start date: March 1, 2006

Favorite food: Chicken.

Biggest temptation: Chicken wings.

Biggest motivator: Attending their son's wedding in September of 2006.

Biggest obstacle: Avoiding eating out.

Old eating philosophy: Eating large portions.

New eating philosophy: Asking what is in food he orders at restaurants.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling and looking better.

Best weight loss secret learned: Small healthy snacks throughout the day stave off hunger.

Tanya Jones recaptures her schoolgirl charm

Struggling with weight issues isn't easy for anyone. But it's especially tough for twenty-somethings who should be enjoying the best years of their lives.

No one knows that better than Tanya Jones. The 20-year-old university student was a sad, skeptical young woman who buried her emotions in food, quickly hitting 357 pounds. She stayed home a lot, afraid that people would talk about her behind her back.

Tanya had struggled with weight her entire life, and none of the diets she tried were right for her. She found it difficult to walk through school, especially the library, carrying all that weight. She felt the bookshelves closing in on her.

And as if that feeling weren't enough to motivate Tanya to find a program that worked for her, she also feared she would someday suffer a heart attack -- just like her grandfather.

Tanya decided to take the plunge. Supported by her mother -- a cancer survivor and Tanya's biggest inspiration -- she walked into the L A Weight Loss center in Oakville, Ontario.

Through one-on-one meetings with her counselor Barb Reidy, Tanya learned portion control, and lost nine pounds in just the first week! Since then, she's lost a total of 140 pounds. She's at 217 pounds, and is well on her way to her goal weight of 200 pounds.

Now, words like delightful, bubbly, and amazing more aptly describe Tanya. She is more outgoing, and has a better time being out with friends.

The fear of people talking behind her back is gone -- along with the excess weight! Great job, Tanya!!

This is Tanya at her heaviest -- 357 pounds:



And here she is now, after just one year on the program. Way to go, Tanya!



FAST FACTS

Name: Tanya Jones
Hometown: Burlington, Ontario
Age: 20
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 357 pounds
Goal weight: 200 pounds
Current weight: 217 pounds
Program start date: April 28, 2006

Favorite food: Zucchini.

Biggest temptation: Ice cream or pizza.

Biggest motivator: Her family, who gave her support, and her weight loss counselors.

Biggest obstacle: Finding a weight loss program that worked for her.

Old eating philosophy: Indulging in sugary and high-carb foods.

New eating philosophy: Eating nutritional foods in smaller portions.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better about herself, and feeling healthier.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eating every two to three hours keeps you from feeling hungry.

Meaning of motherhood a weighty issue for Monica King

The most popular Mother's Day gifts last year were flowers, cards, and food, according to the National Retail Federation. But these tangible gifts can't really capture the true meaning of motherhood.

Instead, it takes something larger to really show what being a mom is all about. For Monica King of Copperas Cover, Texas, the meaning of motherhood reached 240 pounds.

Monica weighed 185 pounds when she got married in 2001. She half-heartedly followed fad diets, but her cravings for potato chips, pizza, and ice cream always won out.

Then Monica became pregnant with her baby girl Emily. That's when the pounds really added up, and she hit 240 pounds. After having Emily in 2003, Monica lost some baby weight, but reduced her size to only 192 pounds.

Because of the weight, Monica suffered severe sleep apnea and heartburn. Frustrated and fatigued, she wanted more than anything to go down the park slide, and swim with her daughter. But her weight held her back.

Monica's health took a turn for the worse when the excess weight caused a blood clot to form in the back of her left knee. She underwent vein-stripping surgery in early 2005 to relieve the clot.

When Monica came home, things weren't much better. That's when she decided the perfect way to get healthy and become a better mother would be to lose weight.

Monica put her plan into action with a trip to the Killeen, Texas, L A Weight Loss center. She immediately found the support and guidance she needed to get her eating habits on track. She could eat all her favorite foods -- including the pizza and ice cream -- just in moderation.

All along, Monica's biggest motivator was her mother. Monica told her what she should be eating, and cooked healthy meals with her. That helped Monica stick with the L A Weight Loss plan.

She reached her goal weight of 130 pounds on March 1, 2006, just five months after beginning her weight loss plan. That's 110 pounds gone from when she was at her heaviest!

And through it all, she had the one shining star that mattered to her most: her daughter Emily. Now four years old, Emily is full of life. Monica loves taking her to the park and going down the slide. They also rollerskate every Saturday afternoon, and bowl on Friday nights.

Monica always thinks positively, and knows she's a better mother now that her health is back on track. She couldn't have done it without her mother's support and her daughter's motivation. Sounds like this trio knows the true meaning of Mother's Day!

(Also, check out Monica's profile in this week's People Magazine!)

This is the 240-pound Monica before:



And here's Monica with a fabulous 130-pound figure and size 6 bikini to boot! Great job, Monica!



FAST FACTS

Name: Monica King
Hometown: Copperas Cover, Texas
Age: 26
Height: 5'7"

Starting weight: 240 pounds
Goal weight: 130 pounds
Current weight: 130 pounds
Program start date: Oct. 1, 2005

Biggest temptation: Ice cream.

Biggest motivator: Her daughter and mother.

Biggest obstacle: Getting over cravings for junk food.

Old eating philosophy: Indulging in pizza, rice, and other high-calorie foods.

New eating philosophy: Eating in moderation.

Best thing about losing weight: Being able to play with her daughter.

Best weight loss secret learned: Family support is the best way to stick with a weight loss plan.

Whoopi sports a winning smile -- and size -- in this week's People

Your eyes don't deceive you: That's L A Weight Loss’s spokeswoman Whoopi Goldberg sporting ‘skinny’ size 8 black pants in the May 14th issue of People!

Whoopi took on the spokeswoman role in November, and has already dropped 43 pounds and four (!) clothing sizes.

The secret to her success: a customized meal plan that includes smaller portions of her favorite foods, and exercise on the StairMaster 15 minutes a day.

This is a big change for a woman who used to tear through an entire bag of potato chips, or eat large portions of steak and pizza -- which is the reason, she jokes, you could have used her backside to serve drinks.

It's a different story now, as Whoopi celebrates her weight loss progress. She says the results are thrilling and surprising.

"I had a different face [when I was heavy]. It’s very odd," she tells People.

Don't worry, Whoopi, we're sure you'll get used to it ;-) Keep up the great work!!

Here's Whoopi before joining the program ...



And here is Whoopi after dropping 43 pounds. You look maaahhhvelous, Whoopi!

Susan Campbell makes weight loss her lifelong passion

Many people who struggle to lose weight go through the same emotional roller coaster of self-pity and self-doubt.

And often, the most effective motivator for them to drop the weight is to talk to someone who's also carried around extra pounds, and suffered the embarrassment, health complications, and lifestyle restrictions firsthand.

One person filling that exact role is Susan Campbell of Lebanon, Va. The inspiration that she can impart today is the result of all the lessons she learned along her tough weight loss journey -- a journey that started with marriage.

Once Susan wed her husband, Matthew, she fell into a comfort zone about her weight and appearance. She indulged in fried foods, donuts, and coffee cakes for breakfast; cheeseburgers and pizza for lunch; and fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and other Southern comfort foods for dinner.

Soon, Susan reached 235 pounds, and realized she needed to get back on track. She had heard a lot about L A Weight Loss, but didn't join because there were no centers near her home.

Instead, she bounced around between fad diets -- from the Zone diet to the low-carb diet -- to lose weight. A few pounds came off, but she missed her favorite foods. So she binged on birthday cake and barbequed ribs, and the pounds came right back.

That's when Susan gave up hope. She convinced herself that God meant for her to be fat. But that wasn't the only part of her struggle.

With all the extra weight on her joints, Susan had severe elbow, knee, and ankle pain. One day, she was walking down the stairs in her home when her ankle gave out. She painfully hobbled down the steps, unsure if she could even make it.

That was the moment Susan realized how "ridiculous," as she says, her life became. She was 39 years young, had a 12-year-old son, and faced the possibility that she might not be able to play with her grandchildren someday.

But the stars were on Susan's side. A few days after her trouble on the stairs, an L A Weight Loss center opened in Bristol.

Susan joined right away. And the first thing she did was work with the nutritionists to develop a customized eating plan that fit her tastes and lifestyle. Susan's always disliked vegetables -- except green beans -- and didn't want to be forced to eat them.

The L A Weight Loss nutritionists said that's fine, and adjusted her plan to include more fresh fruit and lots of green beans to compensate for the lack of other vegetables. Susan also divided her meals into five a day, so she could still enjoy her favorite snacks, such as Skinny Cow ice cream bars.

With her new eating plan in place, Susan quickly saw the pounds melt away. Her husband was her best cheerleader, and supported her throughout her weight loss journey. With her beautiful new figure emerging, some of Susan's overweight coworkers became jealous. A few even told her that she looked good enough, and needed to stop losing weight!

But Susan kept on going. She lost 90 pounds in eight months, reaching her goal weight of 145 pounds. Susan was so thrilled with her success, that she kept at her weight loss plan, and dropped an additional 10 pounds. By June 2003, Susan was a stunning 135 pounds and size 6.

And that's where she is today. Four years into maintenance, Susan has no more pain in her joints, and enjoys playing tennis, riding her bike, and walking outside. She doesn't feel embarrassed about her size. Instead, she feels in control of her life.

She knows she's a healthy person now, and has a true lust for life. Now she would love to be a motivational speaker for other women and men struggling to lose weight.

Susan is already reaching out with her personal blog, called Susie's blog. Make sure you check this one out -- it's awesome! Susan offers great support and guidance to people who want to lose weight, but just don't think they can. I'd say she's got motivation in the bag!

Susan is a real inspiration for everyone who wants to lose weight. She's been there, done that, and is happier and healthier than she's ever been in her life! Way to go, Susan!

This is Susan before, at an unhealthy 235 pounds:



And check out Susan now, strutting in a bikini at 135 pounds! She's one hot mama! Great job, Susan!



FAST FACTS

Name: Susan Campbell
Hometown: Lebanon, Va.
Age: 44
Height: 5'6"

Starting weight: 235 pounds
Goal weight: 145 pounds
Current weight: 135 pounds
Program start date: August 2002

Favorite food: Grilled salmon.

Biggest temptation: Pizza.

Biggest motivator: Her husband, Matthew.

Biggest obstacle: Finding a flexible weight loss plan that fit her lifestyle.

Old eating philosophy: Eating a lot of fried and easy-to-prepare foods.

New eating philosophy: Having five smaller meals a day so she can still have her snacks.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling good inside and out.

Best weight loss secret learned: The first step to successful weight loss is being honest with yourself. Find what works for YOU, and you'll find success.

Mariela Nieves turns teasing into triumph

Teasing is common among children, and a widely accepted part of schoolyard life. Sometimes, though, the taunts go too far, leaving scars that last well into adulthood.

Just ask Mariela Nieves. She grew up in Puerto Rico on a steady diet of rice, beans, and other ethic dishes. Her family always told her to finish everything on her plate, or she wouldn't be healthy. She obliged -- and started to struggle with weight as a result.

Matters only got worse at school, where students called Mariela names like Miss Piggy, Shamu, and even Free Willy. She tried to shrug off the mean taunts, but to no avail. Soon, Mariela became bulimic, thinking this would resolve her weight issues.

Suffering with this terrible disease took its toll on Mariela for years, physically and emotionally. At 225 pounds, she was always tired and exhausted. She had to lay on the bed to button her pants. And she started taking antidepressants.

Then Sarah, Mariela's manager at work, told her about how she lost over 50 pounds on L A Weight Loss, and had kept it off since. Mariela didn't think twice -- she signed up that same day!

The effects were positive and immediate. Mariela stopped being bulimic, and turned to eating real food in the right portions. Plus, after losing just 10 pounds, she was able to stop taking antidepressants, too.

In only one year, Mariela lost 100 pounds!!! She's been on maintenance for two years at 124 pounds. Even better, she has plenty of energy to play with her two young children, take care of the house, and shop at new stores for clothing in smaller sizes.

The best part: Mariela says she feels like a new woman, with a healthier, happier outlook on herself, and on life. Awesome work, Mariela! You did it!

Check out Mariela at an unhappy 225 pounds:



And here she is at a happy, healthy 124 pounds! (Hands off, gents, she's married!)



FAST FACTS

Name: Mariela Nieves
Hometown: Woodstock, Ga.
Age: 27
Height: 5'3"

Starting weight: 225 pounds
Goal weight: 125 pounds
Current weight: 124 pounds

Favorite food: Rice and beans.

Biggest temptation: Cake with ice cream and milk.

Biggest motivator: Wanting to lose weight the healthy way.

Biggest obstacle: Overcoming bulimia and depression.

Old eating philosophy: Eating everything on her plate, even if it wasn't the right portion size.

New eating philosophy: Enjoying her favorite foods in healthy amounts, and drinking plenty of water.

Best thing about losing weight: Having the energy to play with her kids and take care of herself.

Best weight loss secret learned: Losing weight will change your life, so it's definitely worth the commitment to the plan.

Melinda Martin comes full circle by losing a full person

We talk to real women and men about their weight loss journeys every day. We recount their struggles and triumphs on this blog. But nobody can tell these stories better than the women and men themselves.

Case in point: Melinda Martin, of Fort Oglethorpe, Ga. I was digging around in the L A Weight Loss archives last week, and came across her file. We profiled her last December, 23 months after she joined L A Weight Loss, and dropped from 337 to 164 pounds.

Reviewing her file, I found a fascinating document she sent me at the time: her weight loss story, in her own words. Melinda relates what it was like for her when her mother died, how she turned to food for solace, and her moment of revelation to lose weight and change her life.

She describes how she lost 173 pounds (that's a whole person!!!) -- and is smaller now than when she first met her husband.

If you +really+ want to know and feel what weight gain and loss feels like, or just need someone to relate to, please, read Melinda's story. I guarantee it will strike a chord.

Reading it, I noticed she was then four pounds away from her goal weight of 160 pounds. I wanted know how she's doing today, and if she reached her goal. So my colleague Janelle and I called and interviewed her on Friday, for a podcast.

I'm happy to report she lost those last four pounds, and is now in maintenance! She also revealed some great tips for sticking with a weight loss plan.

So read her unedited story, and then listen in on our personal conversation here.

It's stories like this that make me love my job!

For Cinco de Mayo: A Mexican hat dance and these healthy recipes!

Just about everybody loves Mexican food. And why not? It's loaded with yummy food like beans, rice, and sour cream. Oh, and did I mention it also goes right to your thighs?

Well, this Cinco De Mayo, treat your family and friends to healthy, light, and delicious recipes that celebrate Mexico's freedom and liberty from the French in 1862 -- and your freedom from boring meals.

VIVA EL CINCO DE MAYO!!



5-Layer Dip

2 green onions, chopped
1 tsp. oil
1/2 cup cooked kidney beans
1/2 tomato, chopped
1 oz. reduced-fat cheddar cheese
2 Tbsp. salsa
1 Tbsp. fat-free sour cream

In a medium bowl, combine 1 chopped green onion, oil, and cooked beans. With a fork, mash beans to form a paste. Place bean paste in bottom of small bowl. Top with chopped tomato. Top tomato with cheese, and then follow with salsa. Spread sour cream over cheese layer. Sprinkle with remaining green onion.

Servings: 4
Serving size: 1/4 recipe
Counts as: 1/2 protein, 1 vegetable, 1 fat, 1/2 dairy


Guacamole

2 avocados, diced
1/2 small onion, diced
1-2 garlic cloves, minced
1 Roma tomato, seeded and diced
Juice of 1 lime
1/2 tsp. light salt
1 jalapeno, diced (optional)

In a large bowl, lightly mash avocado with a fork. Next add remaining ingredients; toss to combine. Chill 30 minutes before serving.

Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Counts as: 1 vegetable, 1 fat



Grilled Mexican Chicken Breast

6 or 8 oz. boneless-skinless, chicken breast (size according to plan)
1-2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 Tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce
3/4 cup water
1/4 cup distilled vinegar
1/8 tsp. freshly ground pepper
1 bay leaf
Nonfat cooking spray

Rinse chicken; pat dry. Set aside. In a medium pot, mix garlic, soy sauce, water, vinegar, freshly ground pepper, and bay leaf. In a skillet coated with nonfat cooking spray, sear chicken over medium high heat, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add chicken to marinade. Simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken from pot. Continue to cook sauce until slightly thick or desired consistency.

Servings: 1
Serving size: 1 recipe
Counts as: 1 protein



Chicken and Avocado Wraps

5 or 7 oz. plain, cooked chicken (size according to plan)
2 Tbsp. salsa
1/8 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and chopped
1 Tbsp. red onion, diced
1 1/2 tsp. pepper sauce (optional)
1/2 whole wheat flour tortilla

In a bowl combine, chicken, salsa, avocado, red onion, and pepper sauce. Place chicken salad on tortilla and roll.

Servings: 1
Serving size: 1 wrap
Counts as: 1 protein, 1 starch, 1 fat

Fargo native forgoes flab for fab

Quitting smoking is great for your health, right? Of course it is -- although many turn to food as a replacement. But eating the wrong foods and gaining weight comes with its own set of health issues.

That's what happened to Marla Eggen of Fargo, N.D. Though Marla struggled with weight all her life, she packed on 75 extra pounds after she quit smoking, and hit a scale-tilting 325 pounds.

In the midst of this weight gain, Marla received two very different pieces of news: Her younger son was getting married within a year, and she was diagnosed with diabetes.

That was enough to convince her to get some help, and become the healthiest, fittest mother of the groom she could be.

Marla had tried every diet under the sun -- hypnosis, pills, even a sunflower-seed diet. She knew that this time around, she needed a well-balanced approach to weight loss.

On a coworker's recommendation, Marla decided to check out L A Weight Loss. She immediately liked the emphasis on real foods and gradual weight loss, plus the one-on-one support from her counselors Sue and Deb.

Under their guidance, Marla moved away from buying salty fried foods and drinking soda, and started eating fresh vegetables and fruits, and drinking water.

She also began exercising on her treadmill at home, going from only .15 miles to a full mile daily, six days a week. (Marla has noticed that the more weight she loses, the faster she walks, so she plans to ramp up the speed!)

Now, after losing 136 pounds (!!), Marla is not only lighter, but also more flexible. She can easily get in and out of the bathtub, tie her shoes, and stay energetic throughout the day.

Even better, she was able to stop her diabetes medication after losing 100 pounds! And best of all, she walked down the aisle at her son's wedding as a healthy woman. Marvelous job, Marla!

Check out Marla at 325 pounds before she joined the program ...



And behold the transformation! Here she is at 189 pounds. Great work, Marla!



FAST FACTS

Name: Marla Eggen
Hometown: West Fargo, N.D.
Age: 48
Height: 5’6”

Starting weight: 325 pounds
Goal weight: 140 pounds
Current weight: 192 pounds
Program start date: March 2005

Favorite food: Chicken.

Biggest temptation: Fried food.

Biggest motivator: Getting in shape before her son's wedding.

Biggest obstacle: Maintaining her commitment to the plan.

Old eating philosophy: Super-sizing everything, and picking up fast food for breakfast.

New eating philosophy: Choosing vegetables, fruit, chicken, and fish over breaded foods and soda.

Best thing about losing weight: Going off her diabetes medication entirely, and shopping for fashionable clothes in her new size!

Best weight loss secret learned: Watch your portion sizes, reduce your sodium intake, and drink a lot of water.

Michelle McCoy turns a mountain into a molehill

Michelle McCoy of Gadsden, Ala., almost saw her life flash before her eyes two summers ago. She was on vacation in the Smoky Mountains, and began to hike up the daunting Clingman's Dome. Navigating the tough terrain proved treacherous for Michelle. The reason? She weighed 221 pounds.

Michelle literally felt like she was going to have a heart attack and die that day. With high blood pressure, high cholesterol, acid reflux disease, and chronic swelling in her legs, Michelle was in no shape to hike mountains. Rather, it was time to march straight into her local Rainbow City L A Weight Loss center.

Michelle's counselor helped her become more conscious of what she was putting in her body. She nixed the hamburgers, junk food, and anything else that was high-fat and high-carb from her diet. No longer swinging by the fast-food joint for breakfast and lunch, she started eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and drinking more water.

Although Michelle encountered a few trouble spots along the way, she always remembered that frightening day in the Smoky Mountains, and was determined never to reach that dark point again. She kept up with the L A Weight Loss plan, and lost 67 pounds. She's now at 154 pounds!

Even better, Michelle's blood pressure, cholesterol, acid reflux, and swelling are all down. She also loves to garden, and is less stressed about life. She's even taken on remodeling her home!

Michelle's relationship with her husband is much better now, too. She says she feels comfortable in clothes or out of clothes. ;)

And Smoky Mountain? Piece of cake, she says. She believes she can definitely conquer it now, toute suite!

This is Michelle before, at 221 pounds:



Here's Michelle after, at 154 pounds! Amazing job, Michelle!



FAST FACTS

Name: Michelle McCoy
Hometown: Gadsden, Ala.
Age: 47
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 221 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 154 pounds
Program start date: October 2005

Favorite foods: Peanut butter and celery.

Biggest temptation: French fries.

Biggest motivator: Getting healthy and avoiding heart problems.

Biggest obstacle: Having self control with the program.

Old eating philosophy: Grabbing anything that was fast and easy.

New eating philosophy: Eating a lot of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, plus drinking only water, and watching her portions.

Best thing about losing weight: Watching her blood pressure, cholesterol, acid reflux, and swelling in her legs go down.

Best weight loss secret learned: Don't give up, even if you make mistakes sometimes. You can definitely do it!

The Ontario couple that joins together ...

... loses together, of course!

When Megan McKean gave birth to daughter Catherine two years ago, she really needed support -- not just with her pride and joy, but also to deal with her post-partum weight gain.

The 27-year-old from Whitby, Ontario, had struggled with weight issues her whole life. And after pregnancy, Megan reached 283 pounds -- the largest she'd ever been.

Her friend told her about L A Weight Loss, and it wasn’t long before Megan walked into the Oshawa center with her husband Victor right beside her. Not only did he want to give Megan moral support, but, at 296 pounds, he wanted to get healthy himself.

The weight started melting away. In fact, Victor couldn’t believe how easily the pounds came off. He was hooked on the program. Since joining in October 2005, the couple lost 189 pounds together -- Victor 96 and Megan 93!

Now at 196 pounds, Megan’s energy level has risen to the point that she exercises every other day, and can do much more for her daughter.

Since reaching his goal weight of 200 pounds, Victor is eyeing next winter when he can lace up his skates and play hockey again. That’s something he’s missed while weighing nearly 300 pounds.

Victor and Megan still create meal plans together, and they find staying on course is easier with a partner. Plus, the experience has brought them closer together as a couple.

Way to go guys!!

This is Megan, with Catherine, before at 283 pounds:



This is Victor, with Catherine, before at 296 pounds:



And here is the new couple now, with Megan at 196 pounds and Victor at 200 pounds! Looking great!



FAST FACTS

Name: Megan McKean
Hometown: Whitby, Ontario
Age: 27
Height: 5’8"

Starting weight: 283 pounds
Goal weight: 180 pounds
Current weight: 196 pounds
Program start date: October 2005

Favorite food: Cheesecake.

Biggest temptation: Ice cream.

Biggest motivator: Her husband, Victor.

Biggest obstacle: Hitting a plateau.

Old eating philosophy: Eating anything she wanted to.

New eating philosophy: Remembering that eating unhealthy foods will show up on the scale.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better about herself, and having more energy to keep up with her daughter, Catherine.

Best weight loss secret learned: Stick with it, and you will hit that goal.



Name: Victor McKean
Hometown: Whitby, Ontario
Age: 29
Height: 6'1"

Starting weight: 296 pounds
Goal weight: 200 pounds
Current weight: 200 pounds
Program start date: October 2005

Favorite food: Green salad with chicken or turkey.

Biggest temptation: Ice cream, cake, and cookies.

Biggest motivator: His wife, Megan.

Biggest obstacle: Eating the right foods while traveling for work.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever he wanted without thinking about the amount or portion size.

New eating philosophy: Making healthy food choices, and staying away from salt.

Best thing about losing weight: Having a healthy new lifestyle with his wife.

Best weight loss secret learned: Cooking vegetables such as corn and peas is a really easy to get your nutrients.

Nurse Carol Nygaard prescribes the '150-percent-better' cure

Devoting 12 hours every day to a neonatal intensive care unit leaves little time for yourself. Carol Nygaard knows this all too well. She's a registered nurse in Beresford, S.D. And after putting in intense half-day shifts, Carol didn't have much time to cook healthily or exercise -- and gained the weight to prove it.

She frequently became fatigued, and took naps in the afternoon. She also had trouble bending over and standing back up.

Her weight really became a problem when her husband told her she was snoring at night. She thought she was developing sleep apnea, and needed to see a doctor. But at 273 pounds, she didn't have to make an appointment to know what the doctor's remedy would be: Lose weight.

An ad for L A Weight Loss prompted Carol to call the Sioux Falls center. After losing a few pounds on the L A Weight Loss program, Carol noticed her sleep apnea was diminishing. After losing a bit more, her snoring and sleep apnea completely disappeared.

But that was just the beginning of a changed life for Carol. She lost 126 pounds, and is now down to 147 pounds! She can easily keep up with her two granddaughters, and likes to take them for rides in the wagon. Plus, she has no problem bending over to pick things up, and likes to walk on her treadmill three times a week, sometimes more.

The best thing about losing weight for Carol? It's been a year since she reached her goal weight, and she's still maintaining! She hasn't forgotten lessons learned from her L A Weight Loss counselor to eat healthily, and includes lots of vegetables, fruits, fish, and lean meats in her diet.

Her family is very happy for her, and she tells me she feels "150 percent better about herself." It shows, Carol! Way to go!

Here's Carol before, at 273 pounds:



And check out Carol now, at 147 pounds! Looking fabulous, Carol, keep up the great work!



FAST FACTS

Name: Carol Nygaard
Hometown: Beresford, S.D.
Age: 52

Starting weight: 273 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 147 pounds
Program start date: September 2004

Biggest temptation: Red meat.

Biggest motivator: Her grandchildren.

Biggest obstacle: Getting started on a weight loss plan.

Old eating philosophy: Ignoring fruits and vegetables, and eating a lot of red meat.

New eating philosophy: Making sure she gets all her fruits and vegetables every day, and eating more lean meats and fish.

Best thing about losing weight: Regaining energy and physical flexibility.

Best weight loss secret learned: If you're mentally there, it's much easier to start dropping the pounds.