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.