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.