Portly Portland chef reveals secret recipe for healthy weight loss

Never trust a skinny chef. Unless, of course, he's John Paulk.

John became a chef five years ago to fulfill his lifelong passion for cooking and entertaining. Equally lifelong -- his struggles with weight. So imagine his dilemma in a new profession where being overweight was socially acceptable.

John took this as an excuse to gain more weight, and quickly hit 233 pounds. He took Prilosec for gastric reflux, experienced serious heel pain, always felt short of breath -- and even suffered a mild stroke!

John felt like a young man trapped in an old man's body. Worse, he was hiding behind his weight, fearful of what people might think or say. John knew he had to make a change, or risk losing his health, happiness, and career.

He sampled many diet programs with little success, and didn't know what else to try. Then John heard a local radio host share his story about slimming down on L A Weight Loss.

The chef was inspired to experiment. He contacted the Lloyd L A Weight Loss Center in Portland, Ore. At first, John was skeptical, but the friendly, helpful counselors quickly put him at ease.

His personal counselor, Rhonda Leigh, met with John one-on-one to set goals and develop a meal plan based on vegetables, fruits, lean meat, and fiber. She also had him step on the scale every other day. This kept him accountable for his eating decisions.

Ever the cook, John adapted recipes at home and at work to fit his new menu and seasoned palate. This meant cutting fat, cooking without oil, grilling and roasting food, and opting for fewer calories. His favorite creation: a fat-free, flavorful marinade made without oil.

John also added exercise to his routine. He hit the gym six times a week, and worked with a personal trainer. Soon, he was doing 800 crunches, where before he couldn't even do 20!

The potent combination of diet and exercise helped John lose weight at a rate of 2 pounds per week. It wasn't long before he hit his goal weight of 180 pounds. He also shrunk his waist from 44 inches to 32, and built up muscle through his workout regimen.

The best part: having the energy, strength, and coordination for new adventures with his family. John went skiing for the first time with his sons, and started working out with his wife during the week. Plus, he no longer needs medication, and feels 10 years younger!

Now John can't wait to share his story with others. He always brings up L A Weight Loss on his radio show, “Food Talk.” And he cooks L A Weight Loss recipes during culinary segments on a local TV program.

John's inspiring message: If a chef can do it, so can you! Well done, John!

Here's John, on-air and overweight at 233 pounds:



And here he is at 180, hotter than a jalapeno! Talk about epicurean delights ;)



FAST FACTS

Name: John Paulk
Hometown: Portland, Ore.
Age: 44
Height: 5'9"

Starting weight: 233 pounds
Goal weight: 180 pounds
Current weight: 180 pounds
Program start date: February 2006

Favorite food: Pizza.

Biggest temptation: Nacho Cheese Doritos.

Biggest motivator: Wanting to set a healthy example for his three young sons.

Biggest obstacle: Becoming complacent and falling into old habits.

Old eating philosophy: Living to eat, drink, and be merry!

New eating philosophy: Adopting a healthier lifestyle, and choosing the right foods in the right portions.

Best thing about losing weight: Having more confidence, and adding years to his life.

Best weight loss secret learned: Write down what you eat, weigh in three times a week, and don't give up until you're finished!