Mandi Lerma dons trendy clothes after discarding trendy diets

If you've struggled with your weight, you probably know there's no quick fix to getting and staying in shape. But fad dieting can be tempting when you're anxious to drop the pounds. It can also result in "yo-yo dieting," as Mandi Lerma of Thornton, Colo., discovered after having two sons.

Mandi gained 50 pounds after having her first child, and 60 more after her second. She ate constantly, and often finished her sons meals if they didn't. And to save time while caring for two young children, she ate quick-to-prepare meals that were high in sodium.

Topping off her bad eating habits was her undying craving for sweets. Cookies and cakes were always in hand! Subsequently, her weight soared to 210 pounds.

Mandi had trouble keeping up with her kids, and tired easily. Even walking up a flight of stairs winded her.

She tried several trendy diets -- including a cabbage soup diet and a lemonade diet. She lost a few pounds here and there, but quickly got stuck and gained the weight back.

One day Mandi was at home getting ready to shop for new pants, and looked at herself in the mirror. Her reflection shocked her. She couldn't believe how heavy she was, and barely recognized her face. There was no way she could go out and find cute new pants looking like that!

Mandi became very depressed, and knew she had to do something about her weight. Having worn out the possibilities of fad dieting, she decided to try something different: L A Weight Loss.

Mandi joined her local center and worked with the personal weight loss counselors to adjust her eating regime. She started eating fresh and frozen vegetables, and salads. She cut out cakes and ice cream, and instead turned to L A Lite bars when her sweet cravings struck.

She also ate several smaller meals throughout the day to keep her metabolism up, and hunger pangs down.

Whenever she hit a trouble spot, her L A Weight Loss counselors gave her tips to get through it, and motivated her to keep going. In just 25 weeks, Mandi lost 50 pounds!

Now weighing 160 pounds, Mandi is full of energy. She plays with her sons without getting tired and enjoys swimming. She also feels more confident and likes to get out and socialize!

And who could blame her, now that she's looking great in her trendy new wardrobe? Mandi loves shopping for her slender size 8 figure, and showing off her cute outfits.

But she's not keeping the simple way to weight loss success a secret. She inspired her family to eat healthier, too. At holidays and gatherings, the table is topped with grilled chicken, vegetable trays, and fresh fruit!

Through it all, Mandi learned not to be afraid to try something new. Joining L A Weight Loss and changing her eating habits for the better was her ticket to a healthy new life!

Great job, Mandi! Keep up the fantastic work!

This is the before Mandi, at 210 pounds:



And this is the new Mandi, glowing with health at 160 pounds. Way to go, Mandi!



FAST FACTS

Name: Mandi Lerma
Hometown: Thornton, Colo.
Age: 29
Height: 5'5"

Starting weight: 210 pounds
Goal weight: 160 pounds
Current weight: 160 pounds
Program start date: August 2007

Favorite food: Ice cream and cookies.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Having her L A Weight Loss counselors by her side throughout her weight loss journey.

Biggest obstacle: Watching her husband enjoy whatever foods he likes.

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

New eating philosophy: Having smaller, freshly prepared meals.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better about herself and having more energy to spend with her kids.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eat smaller meals more often during the day to keep you going.

Tenn. man gains (portion) control of his life

There are many things that can send someone's life spiraling out of control. Drugs, alcohol, a tragic event, or even food, to name a few.

Often, people don't realize they're losing control until it's gone. That's how Matt Beal felt about his weight gain.

Matt gradually packed on pounds after college. The combination of eating out often, dining on fatty foods, and eating at irregular times of the day fueled his weight gain.

When Matt ate out, he ordered humongous portions and ate until he physically felt like he couldn't eat another bite. Then he washed it all down with high-calorie soda or sweet tea.

Matt soon weighed 320 pounds. He worked in retail, which kept him on his feet all day. But carrying around so much weight made his feet ache. Matt also suffered from high blood pressure, and struggled with sleep apnea and snoring.

Matt's weight affected him emotionally as well. He hated having to constantly worry about fitting into places. When he flew, he had to ask for seat belt extensions. And squeezing into roller coasters and other rides was always a struggle.

After returning from a trip to Mexico, Matt saw a picture of himself and was shocked at how heavy he looked. It seemed like Matt's weight had spun out of control without him even noticing. He knew he had to do something to regain control of his body and his life.

Matt tried dieting a number of times, but he couldn't shed the weight. He thought about gastric bypass surgery, but then a better idea struck. He decided to take the less invasive path and join L A Weight Loss in July 2006.

L A Weight Loss paired Matt with one-on-one weight loss counselors who helped him adjust his diet. He added fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and fish to his meal plan. He replaced his sodas and sweet teas with water. Most important, Matt learned portion control.

Matt loves that he can still go to his favorite restaurants, but knows how to make better meal choices. Instead of ordering the 14 oz. steak and baked potato, Matt will order the 7 oz. steak and a salad. Now, he eats until he's full, not until he's absolutely stuffed.

Throughout his weight loss journey, Matt was motivated by constant encouragement from his friends and family. Little by little, Matt whittled the weight away. After one year on the L A Weight Loss program, he lost 110 pounds!

The same day Matt reached his goal weight of 210, he was promoted at work! That's what I call a fabulous day! Matt's success with L A Weight Loss inspired him to keep going and set a new goal weight of 188 pounds. He's on track to meet it, now weighing 195 pounds. That means his total weight loss is 125 pounds so far!

Matt's entire life has changed since he lost the weight. He can't believe how much better he feels, emotionally and physically. Matt says he never knew how tired he was until he started feeling more energetic, and he never knew how depressed he was until he became happier.

And the best part about losing weight is the reactions from people who haven't seen him in a while. It's fun and motivating to bump into old coworkers and friends, and watch their jaws drop when they realize it's Matt. Our jaws dropped too!

With a healthy body, a healthy mind, and a great new position at work, Matt has regained full control of his life. And he looks great!

Here's Matt before at 320 pounds:



And here he is now at 195 pounds -- almost half his size! Wow! Great job, Matt!



FAST FACTS

Name: Matt Beal
Hometown: Cookeville, Tenn.
Age: 34
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 320 pounds
Goal weight: 188 pounds
Current weight: 195 pounds
Program start date: July 19, 2006

Favorite food: Apple pie.

Biggest temptation: Pizza.

Biggest motivator: Stepping on the scales, looking in the mirror, and seeing the changes.

Biggest obstacle: Resisting the temptation to eat bad food.

Old eating philosophy: Eating what tastes good, and eating until he was stuffed.

New eating philosophy: Having the right portions of the right foods at the right times of day.

Best thing about losing weight: Looking great and feeling even better.

Best weight loss secret learned: It's not about secrets, gimmicks, and tricks. It's about common sense.

Stacy Long drops the weight for Disney

For many, the most anticipated time of the year is vacation. Time to get away from the office, kick back, relax, and enjoy life. But what if you don't think you have the energy to enjoy your vacation?

Stacy Long can tell you. Throughout her life, Stacy had never struggled with her weight. After her wedding, though, Stacy began slowly gaining weight throughout the years. Before too long, her 5-foot, 6-inch frame was struggling to support 212 pounds.

Stacy had high blood pressure and cholesterol. She rarely had any energy, and felt unhealthy. Stacy's weight also made her self-conscious and reserved in public. She didn't like the way she looked, and suffered from depression.

While planning a trip to Disney World with her husband and brother, Stacy knew she wouldn't have the energy to keep up with the two men. She tried dieting on her own, but couldn't drop the pounds.

When an L A Weight Loss opened in her hometown of Greeley, Colo., Stacy decided to give it a try. Her personal L A Weight Loss counselors taught her portion control, and helped her add fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats to her diet.

Stacy appreciated her counselors' support. They not only adjusted her diet and taught her to eat right, but they also held her accountable, which kept her on track. Soon, the pounds began dropping.

Since joining L A Weight Loss in April 2005, Stacy lost 76 pounds! In fact, Stacy had so much success with the program, she passed her goal weight by four pounds!

Now Stacy feels like an entirely different person. Looking better on the outside has made her feel better on the inside. And everyone notices her soaring confidence, which even led Stacy to abandon her summertime tankinis for a brand-new bikini! Her husband loves that Stacy's "a bikini girl now!"

With her new energy, Stacy is planning another trip to Disney World. And this time, she's ready. Stacy knows she can keep up with her husband without a problem, so she's invited her niece and nephew too! Good luck, Stacy!

Here's Stacy at 212 pounds on her first trip to Disney World:



And here she is 76 pounds lighter, fit as a fiddle, and ready for her next Disney adventure!



FAST FACTS

Name: Stacy Long
Hometown: Greeley, Colo.
Age: 29
Height: 5'6"

Starting weight: 212 pounds
Goal weight: 140 pounds
Current weight: 136 pounds
Program start date: April 27, 2005

Favorite food: Chocolate.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Wanting to feel better about herself.

Old eating philosophy: Eating less food to lose weight.

New eating philosophy: Eating the right foods often, and the bad foods in moderation.

Best thing about losing weight: Having more energy throughout the day, and knowing she's done something good for herself.

Best weight loss secret learned: Feed your body, don't starve it!

Former U.S. officer drops more than 20

The military is a place of discipline, fitness, and strength. Soldiers are expected to "drop and give me 20" at any time. That "20" usually doesn't refer to weight, but in Tyrone Smith's case, it did.

Tyrone didn't develop weight problems until he was an adult. He ate out of habit and boredom, many times when he wasn't even hungry. Tyrone gradually packed on the pounds, and before he knew it, he was weighing in at 303.

Unable to shed the weight, Tyrone was forced to choose between being flagged for weight problems and face medical discharge, or resign with honorable discharge after 23 years as a customs officer in the U.S. Army Reserve.

He chose the latter. But having to leave the service wasn't Tyrone's only problem. His weight caused him to develop sleep apnea and type 2 diabetes. And he had to lug a 15-pound machine everywhere he went to help him breathe.

Worse, Tyrone was always tired, and didn't have the desire to get out and do anything. His doctors told him he needed to lose weight, or his health would continue to decline.

Tyrone tried losing weight with a number of diet plans, yet always gained it back. Fed up with being overweight, Tyrone joined his local Faye Market, Texas, L A Weight Loss center.

Skeptical about finding a weight loss plan that would work for him, Tyrone didn't tell anyone about L A Weight Loss. Besides, if he did lose weight, he wanted it to be a surprise.

He worked closely with his one-on-one weight loss counselors, who taught him about accountability. They supported Tyrone through his plateaus with constant face-to-face interaction.

Tyrone added lots of fresh fruits and vegetables to his diet, and cut out most of the greasy, fried foods. He learned to bake his foods, instead of frying. Tyrone also learned the importance of portion control. And he loved his L A Lite bars and smoothies.

Since joining L A Weight Loss, Tyrone has dropped 80 pounds! Weighing in at 223 pounds, he's only 23 pounds away from his weight loss goal. Tyrone can't wait to reach his goal, when he plans to treat himself with a whole new "dream wardrobe!"

Tyrone has much more energy now, and exercises about three hours each week. He's looking forward to working his way back into sports. Better yet, he can fly without having to ask for a seat belt extension. And when he looks in the mirror, he sees a completely different person.

Above all else, Tyrone is a happier, healthier person. He's proven that with determination, you really can "Be All That You Can Be." Way to go, Tyrone!

Here's Tyrone weighing in at a hefty 303 pounds:



And here he is now, looking fit enough to be able to drop and give us 20!



FAST FACTS

Name: Tyrone Smith
Hometown: McAllen, Texas
Age: 55
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 303 pounds
Goal weight: 200 pounds
Current weight: 223 pounds
Program start date: September 2006

Favorite food: Baked turkey.

Biggest temptation: Being tempted to take larger portions than he should, and wanting to fry his food when he knows he should bake it.

Biggest motivator: Knowing he doesn't want to be heavy again.

Biggest obstacle: Fearing he can't keep up the weight loss.

Old eating philosophy: Eating cheap, greasy foods, and fattening desserts.

New eating philosophy: Taking his time to go to the store and pick up what he is supposed to eat.

Best thing about losing weight: Having a better attitude, and feeling happier.

Best weight loss secret learned: Adjust your eating habits as you lose the weight so you can keep dropping the pounds.

Mother of twins doubles her fitness and femininity

Having twins can mean double the fun and excitement. But for Vicky Covi of Denver, it also meant double the weight gain.

Vicky's weight issues started long before motherhood, however. In high school she was surrounded by thinner, attractive girls, and her self-confidence began to sink.

In college, her self-esteem got a boost when she lost 25 pounds. But it didn't last long. She gained weight after college, and continued packing on the pounds when she got married and became pregnant with identical twin boys.

Even though she gained 40 pounds during her pregnancy, Vicky never felt more feminine or beautiful as she carried her next of kin. But after giving birth, those feelings soon diminished.

The stress of caring for two newborns wore Vicky down. She turned to carbs and salty foods such as potato chips to manage her stress. She also often fried her food.

Then, as her weight increased to 189 pounds, Vicky has trouble keeping up with her sons. She crashed by 4 p.m. every day, and had little energy left to make dinner and run the household.

Her husband's work regularly held formal events, dinners, and trips that Vicky attended. But she couldn't fit into anything stylish, and felt embarrassed wearing frumpy dresses.

After one event, she was looking at photos of herself and her husband. She was struck by how overweight she looked, and realized she couldn't live like that anymore.

So Vicky looked up several diets, even though she wasn't too keen on counting calories or cutting out her favorite foods. Then she heard about L A Weight Loss's personalized counseling and portion control. It sounded like it could work for her, and she signed up.

The personal weight loss counselors were there for her every step of her weight loss journey. They taught her how to eat the right foods in proper portions, and helped her incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables into her diet.

Vicky also cut back on salty and fatty foods, and stopped frying her meals. In addition, she took vitamins and ate L A Lite bars to supplement her diet, keeping track of it all in her weight loss diary.

So how's Vicky today? Well, she's fifty-nine pounds lighter, and weighing in at 130 pounds! She has no problem sporting a bikini, and loves getting dressed up for her husband's company events.

Vicky's weight loss journey was an awakening for her, and she feels more comfortable with who she is. She now knows what foods work for her body and lifestyle to keep her weight under control.

Best of all, Vicky says she feels great emotionally, physically, and mentally. In fact, she feels as feminine and beautiful as she did she was pregnant!

Way to go, Vicky! Keep up the great work!

Take a look at Vicky before, carrying around 189 pounds:



And take a look at Vicky today, fit and feminine at 130. Looking great, Vicky!



FAST FACTS

Name: Vicky Covi
Hometown: Denver
Age: 38
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 189 pounds
Goal weight: 135 pounds
Current weight: 130 pounds
Program start date: January 2005

Favorite food: French fries.

Biggest temptation: Bread.

Biggest motivator: Seeing weight start to come off in the first two weeks.

Biggest obstacle: Exercising.

Old eating philosophy: Indulging in anything that was unhealthy.

New eating philosophy: Enjoying healthier foods in the right portions.

Best thing about losing weight: Wearing trendy new clothes.

Best weight loss secret learned: Portion control!

U.S. Air Force member sends extra pounds flying

They go through years of training, climbing the great ziggurat of human strength and sacrifice. It's assumed, then, that these men and women of the U.S. Air Force are fit, and their bodies are ready for anything.

But what happens when love for food gets in the way of love for country? Ask Greg Brooks of Colorado Springs, Colo.

For most of his adult life, Greg's weight bounced up and down. Food was a central focus of his family gatherings, and he enjoyed indulging in high-calorie beers.

As a member of the U.S. Air Force, he frequently moved from country to country, and city to city. He ate out a lot, and usually didn't think twice about what was on his plate.

As a result, his exercise and fitness levels varied in each location. It seemed like in every new city, Greg was a new weight. By November 2006, Greg's 5-foot-10-inch frame was lugging 235 pounds.

When he failed his fitness test in Colorado Springs, Greg knew he was in trouble. He tried a few diets, but nothing worked. Greg lacked the motivation to count calories and cut back on greasy foods. But when he failed his second fitness test, Greg knew he had to drop the pounds, or risk losing his job.

Greg's wife recently had success losing weight on the L A Weight Loss program. So Greg decided to give the program a try, too. He joined his local L A Weight Loss center in April 2007, and worked closely with his one-on-one weight loss counselor to modify his diet and eating schedule.

Greg balanced his diet by cutting back on some proteins and starches and adding lots of fresh fruit and vegetables to his meals. He also ate L A Lite bars as a morning and afternoon snack.

Soon, Greg loved every salad combination he could create. And thanks to the lessons he learned in portion control, Greg could still eat his favorite foods -- such as desserts, pizza, and hot wings -- in moderation.

It's only been five months since Greg joined L A Weight Loss, and he's dropped 35 pounds! That means he reached his goal weight of 200 pounds.

He has lots of energy left over after work for walking and hiking. And everyone at the Air Force is proud of him. In fact, his success has inspired a number of his friends to join L A Weight Loss, too.

But the proudest person of all is Greg's wife. The best thing about losing weight for Greg is the look in her eyes when they are together. And of all the people Greg has impressed with his new looks, she is the most important!

With his success, Greg has proved he can pull his weight with his Air Force comrades ... or should we say, lose his weight? Anyway, it looks like he's flying high now!

Here's Greg at 235 pounds, a bit too heavy for the tough fitness tests:



And here he is now, at 200 pounds and ready for action! Way to go, Greg!



FAST FACTS

Name: Greg Brooks
Hometown: Colorado Springs, Colo.
Age: 33
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 235 pounds
Goal weight: 200 pounds
Current weight: 200 pounds
Program start date: April 2007

Favorite food: BBQ.

Biggest temptation: Beer.

Biggest motivator: Getting constant support from his wife.

Biggest obstacle: Indulging in Sunday brunch without overdoing it.

Old eating philosophy: Eating anything he wants, anytime he wants.

New eating philosophy: Having everything in moderation.

Best thing about losing weight: Loving how proud his wife and coworkers are of him.

Best weight loss secret learned: Everything in moderation!

Three keys to keeping your cholesterol in check

Just three, you ask? Yes, just three! That's all it takes to lower your cholesterol and keep it down, as we discovered the other day while chatting with Jennifer Simmons, L A Weight Loss's Director of Nutrition.

But that's not all we talked about. Jennifer also recommended foods you can eat at home and in restaurants to keep cholesterol at healthy levels. She even explained to us, in plain English, what cholesterol is, anyway!

So with National Cholesterol Education Month upon us, there's no better time to tune into our interview and learn simple ways to keep your cholesterol in check. And if you know someone who could benefit from Jennifer's healthy advice, pass this podcast along!

Tennessee softball mom hits weight loss home run

Who doesn't love to eat? Whether sitting around a large table at a family celebration, or enjoying a tasty treat all by yourself, eating can be incredibly enjoyable. A problem arises, though, when your love for eating compels you to eat anything, anytime, without thinking about the repercussions.

Take Stacy Peters. Stacy had struggled with her weight most of her life. Controlling what and when she ate had always been difficult. She simply loved to eat. And often, her will lost the battle to her stomach.

At 5'6", Stacy weighed 251 pounds. She suffered from high blood pressure and low energy. As a coach for her daughters' softball team, Stacy often struggled out on the field during practices. She napped often, and knew she wasn't healthy.

She tried a number of diets, but nothing taught her how to eat right, so Stacy never kept the weight off. Then her mother tried L A Weight Loss -- and it worked wonders! Inspired by her mom's success, Stacy went down to her local Crossville, Tenn., L A Weight Loss center in August 2006.

There, the softball mom worked diligently with her one-on-one weight loss counselors to transform her diet. She reduced the amount of sweets and starches, and cut greasy and fried foods from her diet completely. Instead, she added fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.

Stacy's counselors also taught her how to cook with ingredients such as olive oil, whole wheat flour, and sugar substitutes to cut additional fat out of her home cooked meals. In fact, Stacy's cooking was so much healthier, her husband lost 30 pounds just by eating with her!

Better yet, Stacy herself lost a total of 73 pounds!! Losing weight has truly changed her life. She feels healthier, no longer needs to nap, and has watched her blood pressure go down.

Stacy even has extra energy to practice sports with her girls in the yard. Coaching softball is easier and more fun. And Stacy and her daughters walk together every night.

Best of all, Stacy is much happier and more self-confident. She appreciates everything L A Weight Loss taught her, in addition to her loving and supportive family. Stacy truly feels she has the perfect life. Now that's what we call a home run! We're proud of you, Stacy!

Here's Stacy lugging some extra weight on the softball field:



And here she is 73 pounds later! All right, Stacy!



FAST FACTS

Name: Stacy Peters
Hometown: Pikeville, Tenn.
Age: 36
Height: 5'6"

Starting weight: 251 pounds
Goal weight: 170 pounds
Current weight: 178 pounds
Program start date: August 2006

Favorite food: Chicken.

Biggest temptation: Chips and other snacks.

Biggest motivator: Getting constant support from her husband.

Biggest obstacle: Passing up all the temptations around the holidays.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever she wanted, when she wanted.

New eating philosophy: Thinking about what she puts into her body.

Best thing about losing weight: Being happier.

Best weight loss secret learned: Drink plenty of water!

Weight loss is good for the Sole

Family photos often make us smile over memories of holidays, birthdays, and special events. But no one wants their photos to point out how overweight they are.

Sole Baker didn't find family picture time enjoyable at all. She had struggled with her weight most of her life. Growing up, her sister seemed to eat anything she wanted, and still maintain a petite size 0 frame. Yet whenever Sole indulged, the pounds piled on.

Having children only made watching her figure more difficult. Sole gained weight during her two pregnancies, and found herself too busy caring for her two young sons to diet.

At 5'2" and 174 pounds, Sole knew she could stand to lose weight. She was always out of breath, and lacking energy. It was difficult for Sole to play with her kids, and she didn't like going out.

Worse, when she was with her friends, Sole always felt like "the fat one." Shopping was a burden. And she felt out of place at work, where there was a big emphasis on high-end clothing. Instead, she stuck to her corner of the office.

Then, in May 2005, Sole saw a family photograph where it looked as if she took up half the frame. That was the last straw. Sole decided once and for all the extra pounds had to go.

Two days after first seeing the picture, Sole entered her local L A Weight Loss Center in Pueblo, Colo. There, she worked diligently with her personal L A Weight Loss counselors, who kept her on track and accountable for what she ate.

Sole learned the importance of portion control, and transformed her diet. Soon, she was eating a lot of lean meats, vegetables, and fruits. Sole also changed the way she cooked. She stopped using oils and butter, and relied on salt substitutes for lower sodium. And instead of going out for Mexican food -- her favorite -- she made healthier Mexican alternatives at home.

Since joining L A Weight Loss, Sole dropped 39 pounds!! Now at her goal weight, Sole feels like all her relationships have improved. She has the energy to play with her kids, and takes them out more often. She also feels more comfortable and confident with her husband.

Plus, Sole is no longer jealous of her sister's slender form, and instead celebrates her own curves. Even better, she loves going out with her friends now. Shopping is fun again! And she sports all the latest fashions at work.

The best part? Sole is so much happier in her own life, she can't help but encourage others to improve their lives too. Case in point: Her results with L A Weight Loss convinced her brother to join the program! Way to go, Sole!

Here's Sole before she began L A Weight Loss at 174 pounds:



Here she is now, 39 pounds lighter and looking awesome!



FAST FACTS

Name: Sole Baker
Hometown: Pueblo, Colo.
Age: 27
Height: 5'2"

Starting weight: 174 pounds
Goal weight: 135 pounds
Current weight: 135 pounds
Program start date: May 2005

Favorite food: Italian and Mexican.

Biggest temptation: Dining on McDonald's with the kids.

Biggest motivator: Looking as good as her sister.

Biggest obstacle: Going to her mother-in-law's house who is Italian and loves to cook.

Old eating philosophy: Eating what she wants today, and worrying about it tomorrow.

New eating philosophy: Eating what she wants as long as it's healthy.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling great and looking better.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eat lots of fresh vegetables, and cut back on the salt.

Weight loss all in the family for N.D. father and daughter

Weight gain is sneaky. It creeps up on you slowly, until one day you realize your clothes don't fit right, or you're constantly out of breath, or you just don't look the same.

For Patsy Haire and her father, LaVern Michalenko, weight gain snuck up on them through the years. Patsy began gaining weight during her two pregnancies, 75 pounds after her first, and 15 after her second. She couldn't shed the extra pounds.

LaVern's weight began to increase later in his life. While his lifestyle naturally slowed with his age, his eating increased.

By 2006, Patsy weighed 270 pounds and LaVern was a hefty 340 pounds. They tried several diet plans, but neither learned how to maintain a proper eating routine. The weight stayed on.

After a number of foot and knee surgeries, Patsy struggled through physical therapy, and her extra weight made walking even more difficult. She needed a cane to get around, and was constantly tired. Her doctor told her that her knee would never heal properly while supporting so much weight. Patsy knew she needed to change.

On Sept. 11, 2006, she walked in to her local Minot, N.D., L A Weight Loss center, determined to shed the years of extra weight. Patsy worked closely with her one-on-one counselor to create a balanced, healthy diet.

She cut out fried foods, and instead ate plenty of lean chicken, pork, grilled vegetables, and fresh fruits. Visiting the center three times a week made Patsy accountable for what she ate, and taught her the importance of portion control.

Meanwhile, LaVern was still struggling with being overweight. He was frustrated with his health, and was constantly short of breath and fatigued. But Patsy, already seeing results with L A Weight Loss after just two months, convinced LaVern to join the program too.

Now, father and daughter enjoy cooking meals together by combining the lessons of portion control and nutrition they learned at L A Weight Loss. And they have seen lasting results.

Patsy has lost 74 pounds, and is 196. And LaVern has shed 70 pounds, and weighs 270. Both are getting closer every day to their weight loss goals.

Life has become easier for this father-daughter weight loss duo. LaVern enjoys how much simpler daily tasks, such as getting dressed and taking a shower, have become.

And Patsy's decreased weight made her foot recovery easier. She no longer needs a cane for support. And difficult tasks, such as tying her shoes and standing up from chairs, are now a cinch.

The best part about losing weight for Patsy and LaVern? The constant compliments they receive from friends and family. Everyone is amazed at how good they look, and are proud that both father and daughter stuck with the program.

No wonder this dynamic duo is enjoying new levels of confidence and happiness! Way to go, you two!

Here's LaVern before, lugging lots of extra pounds at 340 pounds:



And here's the 270-pound Patsy before L A Weight Loss:



Here's the fit family now. LaVern, looking much improved at 270:



And Patsy, now at 196. Great job, guys! Keep up the fantastic work!



FAST FACTS

Name: LaVern Michalenko
Hometown: Minot, N.D.
Age: 76
Height: 6'6"

Starting weight: 340 pounds
Goal weight: 240 pounds
Current weight: 270 pounds
Program start date: November 2006

Favorite food: Macaroni and mashed potatoes.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Getting support from the counselors and nutrition experts at L A Weight Loss.

Biggest obstacle: Going to parties at friends' and family's houses.

Old eating philosophy: Eating all the time.

New eating philosophy: Eating the right portions of healthy foods.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling and looking much better.

Best weight loss secret learned: Measure your food.



Name: Patsy Haire
Hometown: Minot, N.D.
Age: 52
Height: 5'9"

Starting weight: 270 pounds
Goal weight: 180 pounds
Current weight: 196 pounds
Program start date: September 2006

Favorite food: Pork chops.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Getting guidance from the L A Weight Loss counselors.

Biggest obstacle: Going out to eat.

Old eating philosophy: Indulging constantly.

New eating philosophy: Having the right portions of the right foods.

Best thing about losing weight: Buying new clothes.

Best weight loss secret learned: Watch what foods you buy.

Colorado couple's winter woes become spring successes

Spring is the typical season to clean. But winter cleaning was in order for Andy and Sheri Collier of Thornton, Colo., when their weight troubles hit rock bottom in the Rocky Mountain state last December.

Andy's struggle began when his five-year Navy career ended. At home, he regularly ate fast food, mac and cheese, and canned chili, and slacked on his workout routine. He figured he could live this lifestyle since he was young. He was right -- at first.

Before long, his muscles diminished and his stomach grew. His desk job made him sedentary during the day. At night, he took care of family responsibilities, and had little time to focus on eating right or exercising.

The effects took their toll. His weight increased to 222 pounds, and he developed a bad knee and high cholesterol.

Meanwhile, Sheri's weight struggle started after having two kids. She didn't have the energy to workout or shed her pregnancy weight, and the stress of raising young children wore her down. She indulged in fast food and sweets to escape.

When her clothes starting fitting tight, she thought they had shrunk in the wash. But then she stepped on the scale and realized she had gained weight. Her petite 5'2" frame was up to 148 pounds.

The couple tried several diets, but quickly got bored and gave up. Sheri became severely depressed, and her doctor put her on medication.

Then one night last winter, Sheri was getting ready to go out with her husband, but she couldn't fit into any nice-looking clothes. She felt more depressed than ever.

Sheri thought about calling L A Weight Loss, and talked to Andy about it. Also wanting to drop the excess weight, Andy agreed L A Weight Loss might be the answer for both of them. So Sheri scheduled a consultation with their local center.

The couple met with L A Weight Loss's personal weight loss counselors, and developed healthy eating plans that worked with their busy lifestyles. The couple started eating proper portions of lean meats such as chicken or pork, fruit, and a salad with every meal.

They visited the center three times a week to stay accountable, and get one-on-one guidance from the counselors when they experienced a challenge or obstacle. And at home, they leaned on each other for support.

Sheri and Andy also got rid of the junk food in the house. When eating out, they ordered low-fat meals that were baked or broiled, not fried. They carried their good eating habits over to their kids, and made sure they got their proper nutrition too.

The couple felt better every day they were on the L A Weight Loss program. In fact, Andy says, "We were cleansed by the healthy diet."

No doubt! Andy lost 40 pounds, and now weighs 182 pounds; and Sheri lost 31 pounds, and is 117 pounds! L A Weight Loss was so effective for them, that they both exceeded their goal weights by three pounds each.

Sheri and Andy now have the energy and flexibility to exercise and play with their kids more. And they can wear and look great in more stylish clothes!

Even better, Andy and Sheri have brought back the love and affection that was waning when they were at their heaviest. Andy feels more confident and in control of his life. And Sheri feels free from the harsh prejudice she felt when in public.

Way to go, guys! You're certainly living the springtime of your lives!

Here's Andy before, at 222 pounds:



And here's Sheri before, at 148 pounds:



This is the happy couple today, a collective 71 pounds lighter! Looking great, Andy and Sheri!



FAST FACTS

Name: Andy Collier
Hometown: Thornton, Colo.
Age: 32
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 222 pounds
Goal weight: 185 pounds
Current weight: 182 pounds
Program start date: Dec. 27, 2006

Favorite food: Chinese.

Biggest temptation: Finger foods.

Biggest motivator: Seeing the program work.

Biggest obstacle: Changing the way he grocery shops.

New eating philosophy: Making smart choices, and thinking before he eats.

Best thing about losing weight: Gaining more self-confidence.

Best weight loss secret learned: Intelligent eating is the secret! Realize what you put in your mouth will affect you later, so think about it first.



Name: Sheri Collier
Hometown: Thornton, Colo.
Age: 32
Height: 5'2"

Starting weight: 148 pounds
Goal weight: 120 pounds
Current weight: 117 pounds
Program start date: January 2007

Favorite food: Mexican.

Biggest temptation: Chips and guacamole.

Biggest motivator: Dropping clothing sizes.

Biggest obstacle: Realizing she will lose weight at her own pace, and not trying to lose as fast as her husband.

Old eating philosophy: Eating anything that was there.

New eating philosophy: Thinking if the food is really worth it before indulging.

Best thing about losing weight: Knowing how to make smart food choices.

Best weight loss secret learned: The take-off.

Georgia woman's life goes from pits to peaches

Everyone loves a Georgia peach, but you certainly don't want to be round like one! Yet that's how Pamela Leadbeater of Deluth, Ga., looked when her weight troubles reached the darkest pits.

It all started after having four kids, when Pamela had trouble keeping her weight down. She opted for fatty and fast foods when hunger struck, and didn't pay much attention to portion sizes. Menu choices included regular-fat dairy products and regular-sodium bacon.

Worse, Pamela's metabolism slowed as she got older, making it more difficult to keep the weight off and stay active. She soared to 262 pounds.

Pamela tried several fad diets and pills to drop the weight. One diet consisted only of cheese, meat, and pork. It worked initially, and she lost 54 pounds. But then Pamela gained it all back -- plus some! -- because the plan didn't teach her how to eat right, and she couldn't eat a variety of foods.

Meanwhile, her arthritis in her knees was worsening, making it painful to walk. She had difficulty breathing, and little energy. She couldn't even bend down to touch her toes.

Pamela was frustrated. She knew there was a thinner woman inside, she just had to find the way to reveal her.

She had heard about L A Weight Loss, and was almost too embarrassed to visit the center. But Pamela summoned her courage, and when she walked in, was pleasantly surprised. She quickly felt at ease, as a personal weight loss counselor sat down with her to discuss her weight troubles.

After the meeting, Pamela knew L A Weight Loss would provide the support and guidance she needed, and signed up. The counselors and nutrition experts taught her how to eat healthy, properly portioned foods. They also directed her to the L A Lite cookbook for simple meals she could easily prepare at home.

Yummy dishes included salads, chicken, turkey, low-fat yogurt and milk, and low-sodium bacon. That way she could still enjoy foods she loved, but in healthy ways. And once Pamela learned how tasty eating right could be, she stopped hitting the fast food drive-thru, too.

Today Pamela is 62 pounds lighter, weighing in at 200 pounds! She's well on her way to her goal weight of 160. Breathing comes easily for her now, and she has much more energy. Plus, she can reach her toes, and enjoys exercising and walking.

Better yet, Pamela no longer feels ashamed of her appearance. She loves feeling healthier, and is motivated to stay on the L A Weight Loss program because she's thrilled with the results.

In fact, Pamela believes L A Weight Loss is the best thing she's ever done for herself. She has a fresh outlook on life, and feels like a new, younger woman.

Way to go, Pamela! Keep us posted on your progress!

This is Pamela in the pits, at 262 pounds:



And here's the sweet Georgia peach now, at 200 pounds! Great job, Pamela!



FAST FACTS

Name: Pamela Leadbeater
Hometown: Deluth, Ga.
Age: 58
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 262 pounds
Goal weight: 160 pounds
Current weight: 200 pounds
Program start date: Sept. 13, 2006

Favorite food: Lasagna.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Being on a structured program.

Old eating philosophy: Indulging in fast food.

New eating philosophy: Making sure everything she eats is healthy.

Best thing about losing weight: Having a new lease on life.

Best weight loss secret learned: Listen to your counselors!

Sandra Shedd sheds the pounds for a healthier life

Losing a loved one is a struggle all people go through at least once in a lifetime. It is devastating. But sometimes, if we are lucky, that death inspires us to live our own lives better.

Sandra Shedd understood the pain of death, and used her struggles to help herself live. Sandra had struggled with her weight her entire life. She was heavy when she was young, and got heavier after giving birth to her children.

Then tragedy struck. Sandra's sister and mother lost their battles with cancer. Sandra was devastated, and comforted herself with food. In the months following her sister's death, she gained another 40 pounds, putting her at 210 pounds.

Sandra felt huge. She had trouble breathing, and everyday tasks such as tying her shoes became a burden. Worse, Sandra wasn't motivated to get out of bed in the morning. And she could always be found in her recliner after work.

Sandra knew she needed to drop the pounds, because her weight put her at higher risk for fatal repercussions. Driven by the memory of her mom and sister, she tried a number of diets, but nothing lasted.

Sandra heard about L A Weight Loss and decided to give it a try. In January 2007, she marched into her local Rome, Ga., L A Weight Loss center, and worked with her personal weight loss counselors to revamp her eating habits.

Fried foods, fast foods, and junk foods were out. Instead, she enjoyed grilled lean meats, fresh fruits, yogurt smoothies, and vegetable drinks. And Sandra was thrilled she could still eat what she loved, just in smaller portions.

Sandra has lost 65 pounds on the program. Her husband supported her 100 percent, and is proud of her for all the weight she's knocked off -- and kept off!

Sandra also appreciates the constant compliments from friends and family. She's proud of how she looks, and isn't ashamed to look in the mirror. In fact, she loves what she sees when she does. ;)

Best of all, Sandra is healthier. She can do things she couldn't before, like play with her three grandchildren without getting winded. Plus, her decreased weight has taken her off the high-risk list for everything from heart disease to cancer, and for that she is truly thankful.

Here's 210-pound Sandra at her first L A Weight Loss weigh-in:



Here she is now looking a lot happier and healthier at 145 pounds. We're proud of you, Sandra!



FAST FACTS

Name: Sandra Shedd
Hometown: Rome, Ga.
Age: 52
Height: 5'5"

Starting weight: 210 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 145 pounds
Program start date: January 2007

Favorite food: Turkey patties.

Biggest temptation: Chocolate.

Biggest motivator: Her husband.

Biggest obstacle: Finding it difficult to not revert to old eating habits when she became stressed.

Old eating philosophy: Snacking on junk food often.

New eating philosophy: Eating properly.

Best thing about losing weight: Having much more energy.

Best weight loss secret learned: You actually have to eat more to lose weight.

Texas man becomes the life of every party

Food is often the center of parties, and linked to good times and people you love. Just think birthday cake and grandma's apple pie.

But food comes into play during negative experiences and emotions as well, to comfort and console. This is typically called emotional eating. Before you know it, that bag of chips or carton of ice cream is gone.

Take Allen Gaines. Allen was skinny his entire life. A track runner in high school and college, his dad fondly nicknamed him "bones" because he was so trim.

After college, however, Allen went through some turbulent experiences, including a near-fatal car accident, a stressful divorce, and custody battle. Allen turned to food for comfort. After all, what's a pity party without the eats?

But even when his life started looking up after overcoming these setbacks, Allen ate. His second wife was his emotional rock, and incidentally, an amazing cook. Over the years, he packed on the pounds.

By 2005, Allen was weighing in at a hefty 317 pounds -- and suffering the consequences. His cholesterol and blood pressure were dangerously high, he could barely climb the stairs without becoming winded, and had to undergo three different surgeries to treat a varicose vein and two kidney stones.

Allen knew he needed to lose weight, and tried a number of diets. After years of eating prepared foods, counting calories, cutting carbs, and always feeling hungry, nothing worked. None of the diets showed Allen simply how to eat right, and he gained the weight back.

On New Year's Eve, Allen resolved to lose weight. And two days later, Allen joined his local Lubbock, Texas, L A Weight Loss center.

Allen's one-on-one weight loss counselors helped him transform his diet and his life. He learned the importance of portion control, and eating more meals but in smaller sizes. He cut out a lot of fatty foods, and started paying attention to nutrition labels.

His diet now consists of fresh fruits and vegetables, baked fish and chicken, lots of water, and an occasional steak. Allen never skips breakfast, and he cut out all late-night snacking.

The best thing Allen learned from his counselors is he can still eat the things he loves while losing weight. He enjoys eating out, and he treats himself to his favorite candy bar (just not every day).

Since joining L A Weight Loss, Allen has lost 104 pounds. His cholesterol is down, his blood pressure is normal, and his energy level has sky-rocketed. He walks every morning, and hikes trails that he hasn't been able to tackle in years. He also runs and plays with his dog.

For the first time in 20 years, Allen is spiritually, mentally, and physically in great shape. And the constant compliments about his weight loss aren't too bad to hear, either. Food is no longer the center of the party ... Allen is! Way to go, Allen!

Here's Allen before his life-changing New Year's resolution, at 317 pounds:

Here he is 104 pounds lighter, and 110 percent healthier. Looking great, Allen! Great job!



FAST FACTS

Name: Allen Gaines
Hometown: Lubbock, Texas
Age: 56
Height: 6'1"

Starting weight: 317 pounds
Goal weight: 213 pounds
Current weight: 215 pounds
Program start date: January 2006

Favorite food: Steak and baked tilapia.

Biggest temptation: Snacks.

Biggest motivator: Receiving support from family and friends every day.

Biggest obstacle: Standing in his own way.

Old eating philosophy: Eating for the sake of eating.

New eating philosophy: Eating to live, not living to eat.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling great about himself.

Best weight loss secret learned: It's all about discipline.

Mother and son break the mold, not the scale

When you read about family members losing weight together, the stories are usually about mother-daughter teams or couples. But what about mothers and sons joining forces to shed the pounds?

It might sound like an unlikely duo, until you get to know Katrina Schilling and her son Nic Morris of Denver, Colo.

Their weight struggles began similarly. They were heavy as children, and peers treated them like outcasts. Their troubles only worsened as they got older.

For Katrina, weight became a bigger issue after she got married and had Nic. She indulged in new-mommy munchies, snacking on chips, cakes, and greasy foods.

She knew her health was at risk, but didn't care enough to improve it. Katrina half-heartedly tried several diets, and couldn't stick with any. She hated weight loss programs that had group meetings because she felt they didn't accomplish anything for her. Her weight swelled to 289 pounds.

As Nic grew up, he felt excluded from group activities and didn't participate in sports. Instead, he played video games and ate potato chips at home alone. Then he started his post-secondary education at Avon Old Farms School, where he loaded up on cafeteria food and late night snacks. He continued these eating habits when he transfered to University of Denver.

At 328 pounds, Nic watched his blood pressure increase with the excess weight. His doctor put him on medication.

It wasn't long before Katrina and Nic reached their breaking points. The extra weight was exacerbating Katrina's asthma, and she had a difficult time walking because of knee problems. She knew she needed to lose weight immediately, or risk not seeing Nic graduate.

Nic was shocked into action after seeing a photo of himself and his mother. He couldn't believe how heavy he was. He felt worthless, and knew he had to get serious about losing weight.

Katrina decided to try L A Weight Loss. She told Nic she was signing up, and he joined with her. They each worked one-on-one with their weight loss counselors to revamp their eating habits.

Katrina learned to enjoy healthy foods, such as fresh salads with minimal dressing and lean meats. Soon, junk food wasn't even a temptation! She also added L A Lite bars to her diet for a special treat.

Nic, on the other hand, learned to cook healthy foods in his off-campus apartment at college. Plus, he knew the right foods to order when he went out to eat, so he never felt limited in his food choices. Before long, Nic was happy eating a salad instead of french fries, and reached for an apple or carrot sticks when he craved a snack.

Throughout their journey, Katrina and Nic made sure each other was eating the right foods in the proper portions. This helped keep them on track and motivated to keep losing.

The results? Katrina lost 120 pounds, and is now 169 pounds. And Nic is down 124 pounds, clocking in at 204 pounds. That's 244 pounds gone between the two!

But that's not all they lost. Katrina and Nic also shed their low self-esteem. They have tons of confidence to go out in public and not feel embarrassed by their weight.

Plus, Nic is off his blood pressure medication, and enjoys hitting the gym six days a week. And Katrina can now show off her trim figure in feminine clothing, such as skirts, dresses, and tighter-fitting jeans.

Best of all, mother and son have strengthened their relationship. Now that Nic is away at college, he still sees his mom at least three times a week to catch up, go bike riding, or garden together.

Way to go, Katrina and Nic! Keep up the fantastic work!

This is the pair at their heaviest -- Katrina at 289 pounds and Nic at 328 pounds:



And here's the new Katrina and Nic, minus 244 pounds! Wow! Congrats, guys!!



FAST FACTS

Name: Katrina Schilling
Hometown: Denver, Colo.
Age: 51
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 289 pounds
Goal weight: 155 pounds
Current weight: 169 pounds
Program start date: June 2005

Favorite food: Chocolate.

Biggest temptation: Cake.

Biggest motivator: Doing the program with Nic.

Biggest obstacle: Spending time with in-laws in New York, who always had sweets on the table.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever she wanted, whenever she wanted it.

New eating philosophy: Planning meals and thinking about what she's eating before taking a bite.

Best thing about losing weight: Gaining self-confidence and being able to shop for regular-sized clothing.

Best weight loss secret learned: Portion control!



Name: Nic Morris
Hometown: Denver, Colo.
Age: 22
Height: 6'4"

Starting weight: 328 pounds
Goal weight: 195 pounds
Current weight: 204 pounds
Program start date: June 2005

Favorite food: Steak.

Biggest temptation: Starches, such as potatoes, bread, and pasta.

Biggest motivator: Doing the program with his mom, and seeing results.

Biggest obstacle: Partying in college.

Old eating philosophy: Indulging in potato chips and fast food.

New eating philosophy: Eating a healthy balance of fruit, salads with grilled chicken and nuts, and fish.

Best thing about losing weight: Being able to accomplish anything without excess weight holding him back.

Best weight loss secret learned: You can lose weight and still eat out at restaurants.

Tennessee mom drops the baby ...

... er, weight that is.

The average weight of a newborn baby is 7.5 pounds. The average weight a mother needs to gain for a healthy baby is 20 to 30 pounds. But once baby is born, many mothers find it difficult to lose that extra 20, 30, or 40 pounds they packed on over the previous nine months.

Take Jeanette Henderson. She never struggled with her weight until she became a mom. With each of her four pregnancies, Jeanette found it impossible to shed the extra weight. By the time she gave birth to her fourth child, she had gained 40 pounds she just couldn't shake.

To make matters worse, Jeanette constantly snacked with her kids. Her diet consisted of large portions, a lot of starches, and too much fried and junk food. And whenever she became depressed about her weight, Jeanette only ate more.

She knew she wanted to lose weight, but didn't know how. Jeanette tried a number of different diets that didn't stick, causing her weight to yo-yo. Then her two closest friends each lost 100 pounds on L A Weight Loss. Jeanette became determined to make it work for her, too.

Working closely with her personal weight loss counselors from her local Hermitage, Tenn., L A Weight Loss center, Jeanette transformed her diet. She replaced her usual unhealthy habits with more fruits and vegetables, and more steamed and baked dinners, rather than fried. Jeanette also loved L A Weight Loss food options, such as L A Lite bars and Slim Downs.

Since starting her L A Weight Loss program, Jeanette lost 31 pounds -- one pound more than her goal weight! Her self-esteem and confidence are soaring. Plus, Jeanette's busy schedule doesn't wear her out any more, and she has plenty of energy left to exercise.

In fact, Jeanette is so happy with her weight loss results, she's trying to convince her husband to join the program! Now that's what I call spreading the good word. Way to go, Jeanette!

Here's a 160-pound Jeanette before L A Weight Loss:



And here she is 31 pounds later! WOW!



FAST FACTS

Name: Jeanette Henderson
Hometown: Hermitage, Tenn.
Age: 42
Height: 5'3"

Starting weight: 160 pounds
Goal weight: 130 pounds
Current weight: 129 pounds
Program start date: July 2006

Favorite food: Turkey tacos.

Biggest temptation: Mexican food.

Biggest motivator: Knowing the plan works.

Biggest obstacle: Admitting she needed to lose the weight.

Old eating philosophy: Paying little attention to portion control.

New eating philosophy: Learning portion control.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling great about herself.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eat six times a day, don't starve yourself, and drink water.

Shannon Klaas shows it's possible to beat the stereotype

As if physical problems weren't enough, overweight people often battle stereotypes, too. Some common misconceptions: They're heavy because they're lazy, they eat too much fast food, or they don't understand nutrition.

Shannon Klaas had struggled with her weight since adolescence, and was all too familiar with the assumptions that came with it. Throughout her teens and 20s, she steadily packed on the pounds, and weighed 275 pounds by age 26.

For Shannon, the worst part about being overweight was how others treated her. She noticed people staring when she was out in public, and their gazes made her feel unhealthy. Shannon wasn't lazy, but she knew others believed she was judging by their reactions to her.

To make matters worse, Shannon's extra weight gave her joint pain which kept her from exercising. Then a back injury put her out of work, making her even more sedentary.

The breaking point came when Shannon traveled to Disney World in July 2005, and had to ask for a seat belt extension on the plane. Her shame only grew when she was too overweight to fit on many of the park's rides. Then and there, Shannon knew she needed to change her life.

She tried a number of diet programs, but Shannon never felt committed or accountable on any of them. Then, in April 2006, a friend gave Shannon an L A Lite bar to snack on. She liked it so much, she immediately went down to her local L A Weight Loss center in Twin Falls, Idaho, and signed up!

Shannon discovered that the L A Weight Loss plan was easy to follow. With the help of her personal counselor, she added lots of fruit, vegetables, and lean meats to her diet, and cut out fatty foods. Shannon also cooked yummy meals from her L A Weight Loss cookbook, and loved indulging in L A Lite bars and powdered smoothies.

Since starting her L A Weight Loss program, Shannon lost 108 pounds! Now Shannon loves her new-found energy. She is more active than ever before, and enjoys riding her bike, walking on the treadmill, and playing with her nieces.

Plus, Shannon's outlook on life is more positive, and her outgoing personality has changed the relationships with everyone around her. Shannon's weight loss even inspired her dad and her friends to start eating healthier and leading more active lives.

Best of all, Shannon knows she will never have to face those old overweight stereotypes from others again. And since Shannon has been hired as an L A Weight Loss counselor, she'll be changing lives every day, the same way she changed her own.

We're proud of you, Shannon!

Here's Shannon (and Mickey) at her heaviest:



And here she is now, looking unbelievable at 167 pounds!



FAST FACTS

Name: Shannon Klaas
Hometown: Jerome, Idaho
Age: 27
Height: 5'8"

Starting weight: 275 pounds
Goal weight: 145 pounds
Current weight: 167 pounds
Program start date: April 2006

Favorite food: Mexican.

Biggest temptation: Chocolate.

Biggest motivator: Being free of health problems.

Biggest obstacle: Hitting plateaus.

Old eating philosophy: Piling her plate with food, and eating more, even if when she wasn't hungry.

New eating philosophy: Knowing that she doesn't have to finish her plate, and saving what she doesn't eat.

Best thing about losing weight: Gaining back the self-confidence that she lost, being healthy and active, and spending more time with family and friends.

Best weight loss secret learned: Learn how to eat and be active.

Healthy snacks for 100 calories or less

You might be familiar with 100-calorie snack packs of cookies and crackers. They are a popular way to satisfy snack cravings without consuming too many calories.

But did you know they can cost four times as much as the regular-sized snack package? Talk about breaking the bank!

Why not make healthy, 100-calorie snacks at home instead? It's easy and inexpensive when you know the right foods to prepare.

To help us out, we turned to Jennifer Simmons, L A Weight Loss's Director of Nutrition. Check out our conversation below to learn about some easy-to-prepare, low-cost snacks at 100 calories or less.

Plus, we talk about the importance of snacking during the day, and healthy bites you eat on the go. So grab a snack (100 calories or less!) and take a listen!

Canadian woman ditches those three little words

"The heavy one." Those three words can strike dread in the hearts of thousands. No one wants to be the heavy one.

But Heather Elliot was. She struggled with weight her entire life in a family with two skinny sisters. School was no different. Heather always felt she was the heavy one among all of her friends, too.

Once she graduated college, Heather treated herself to months of relaxation and celebration. She constantly chowed down on chips and sweets. The weight piled on.

Then her grandmother -- one of Heather's biggest supporters -- pointed out the young woman's weight gain. That's when Heather decided she was sick and tired of feeling heavy.

She joined her local L A Weight Loss center in Burnaby, British Columbia, in April 2006. But she was devastated at her weigh-in when the scaled tipped to 276 pounds. That convinced Heather to lighten her life.

She immediately connected with her personal L A Weight Loss counselors. Heather felt they understood her, and could motivate her through her weight loss journey, even when she hit a plateau.

Around the same time, Heather's dad was diagnosed with diabetes. So they took on the challenge of transforming their diets together. He offered her tons of support, and his compliments inspired her to keep losing.

Heather went through a complete lifestyle change with L A Weight Loss. She learned the importance of portion control, and didn't even want to eat unhealthy foods anymore. Plus, it became easier to make the right decisions.

Soon her diet was filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and lots of water. And the knowledge she learned at L A Weight Loss helped her make the right decisions when she ate out.

Her dedication paid off in a big way -- 65 pounds, in fact! Now Heather has a whole new life. Her relationships with family and friends are stronger than ever, and she can do all the things she loves.

For example, she has become a better baseball player (which thrilled her coach); rides all the amusement park rides; teaches children with disabilities; enjoys working out; and adores shopping and hiking.

Plus, Heather is enjoying her newfound confidence, which has launched her into the dating world for the first time ever! Best of all, she loves her new body and her new outlook. And she knows that she will never be the heavy one again.

Here's Heather weighing 276 pounds:



And here she is now, looking fantastic and feeling better than ever! Way to go, Heather!



FAST FACTS

Name: Heather Elliott
Hometown: New Westminster, British Columbia
Age: 22
Height: 5'7"

Starting weight: 276 pounds
Goal weight: 211 pounds
Current weight: 211 pounds
Program start date: April 2006

Favorite food: Salad.

Biggest temptation: Beer and chocolate sweets.

Biggest motivator: Seeing constant results with her weight loss.

Biggest obstacle: Cutting out bad foods from her diet.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever tastes good, especially sweets.

New eating philosophy: Eating healthy with the right portion sizes.

Best thing about losing weight: Watching her self-confidence skyrocket.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eat smaller portion sizes more often throughout the day.