No challenge too tough for Canadian mom

Life doesn't always follow a plan, but the difficult times are often the most inspirational.

Diane Dobson, for example, used brain surgery as the motivation to tackle her weight problem and win her life back.

She had been overweight her entire life. She tried every diet on the market, but nothing worked. Diane usually felt she was losing weight to please other people, and the scale dial bounced back and forth for years.

After giving birth to two children, her weight climbed to 315 pounds and stayed there for 15 years. Diane preferred water over soft drinks or juice. But heaping portions of bread, chocolate, pastries, and pasta always made their way to her plate.

And she often indulged in late-night binges and sugar-filled quick fixes. As her weight increased, her happiness decreased.

In her 30s and 40s, Diane began having seizures. When she got it checked out, her doctors found that a mass in her brain, which she had had her entire life, was a tumor. It was causing the seizures, and she needed surgery immediately to remove part of it.

Diane underwent the operation on April 11, 2006. She was awake during the procedure, as is common during brain surgeries. Fortunately, it was a success. And it also inspired her to tackle her weight problem.

With a renewed commitment to lose weight, Diane decided to not tell anyone about her plans to lose weight. She thought it would keep the pressure off her, so she could focus on her weight loss goal.

Diane heard about L A Weight Loss, and decided to try it. In May 2007, she joined her local Hamilton, Ontario, L A Weight Loss center. She met with a one-on-one weight loss counselor, who taught her how to eat smaller meals five times a day.

Diane made donuts and over-stuffed sandwiches history. Instead she dined on yogurt, rice, tuna, and plenty of healthy, low-fat chicken. If she wanted a snack, she grabbed some fruit.

Since joining L A Weight Loss, Diane has lost 136 pounds! She currently weighs 178 pounds, and is closer than ever to her weight loss goal of 160 pounds.

Diane's not just eating right, she's racking up the miles every day by walking. She's logging up to six hours, three to four days a week. When the Canadian winter thaws, Diane says she'll step it up to five or six days a week.

In the meantime, she's doing push ups, sit ups, and churning out 45 minutes on a stationary bike. She's definitely caught the workout bug.

Even though Diane had originally kept her weight loss a secret, when you lose 136 pounds, people take notice. Her confidence has grown enormously, and she feels like everyone finally notices her. Her new boyfriend certainly did! ;)

Best of all, Diane looks in the mirror every day and knows she looks good and feels great. Way to go, Diane! We're proud of you!

Here's Diane at 315 pounds:



Here's a happy and healthy Diane today at 178 pounds:



Fast Facts

Name: Diane Dobson
Hometown: Hamilton, Ontario
Age: 44
Height: 5'5"

Starting weight: 315 pounds
Goal weight: 160 pounds
Current weight: 178 pounds
Program start date: May 15, 2007

Favorite food: Bread and pastries.

Biggest temptation: Chocolate.

Biggest motivator: Surviving brain surgery.

Biggest obstacle: Making sure she ate three meals a day.

Old eating philosophy: Chowing down on pasta, bread, donuts, and chocolate candy bars.

New eating philosophy: Including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling alive and living life to the fullest.

Best weight loss secret learned: You can eat five times a day and lose weight.

Joann Westfall wins big with a big loss

In the midst of March Madness, one word on every fan's mind is "win." But the only thing Joann Westfall can think about is losing -- weight, that is.

Until recently, weight was a serious issue for Joann. She was constantly yo-yoing, and never content with her looks. But she wasn't alone. Joann's entire family was overweight as well.

At 293 pounds, Joann knew she needed to lose weight. None of her clothes fit properly, and even sitting and lying were uncomfortable. Joann's blood pressure was through the roof, her knees and back were aching, and she was constantly catching her breath.

She tried every fad diet on the market, but nothing worked. But in 2006, she noticed a friend from church literally shrinking each week. When Joann discovered her friend was following the L A Weight Loss program, she decided to give it a try.

Joann joined her local Charlotte, N.C., L A Weight Loss center in September 2006, hopeful that this would be the plan for her.

Each week, Joann worked with her one-on-one weight loss counselor, who helped her transform her diet from hefty to healthy. She realized practically nothing she was eating had nutritional benefits.

Joann cut back on candy, baked goods, and salty snacks. And instead of quick-fix grabs, she began planning her meals and eating more fresh fruits and vegetables.

She also reduced her intake of red meat, while increasing her consumption of lean meats, such as chicken and turkey. Joann was always sure to drink the right amount of water each day.

With this recipe for success, it's no wonder Joann's weight started to drop. Once it did, she found she had the energy and the stamina to exercise, which helped her shed weight faster and tone up.

After 18 months on the program, Joann lost 109 pounds. Wow! Today she weighs 184 pounds, and is getting close to her goal of 150 pounds.

Since losing weight, Joann is enjoying so many things that had been tedious before, such as shopping for new clothes. She likes exercising, and is much more social.

At her new weight, Joann is able to make the most of every day. She can't wait to go to the pool this year in a cute new bathing suit.

Best of all, Joann feels like a weight was lifted from her shoulders -- physically and emotionally. Her health problems have been resolved, and she's no longer worried about the effects of obesity on her health. Way to go, Joann! Keep up to good work!

Here's Joann in 2006 at 293 pounds:



And here she is today at a healthy and happy 184 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Joann Westbrook
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
Age: 50
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 293 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 184 pounds
Program start date: September 2006

Favorite food: Sushi.

Biggest temptation: Carbs.

Biggest motivator: Keeping a "before" photo of herself on her refrigerator.

Biggest obstacle: Going out with friends and not being able to eat what they're having.

Old eating philosophy: Eating anything and everything.

New eating philosophy: Choosing fresh fruits and vegetables every day.

Best thing about losing weight: Watching herself shrink.

Best weight loss secret learned: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

Lisa McNeil asks for your help!

Lisa McNeil started her L A Weight Loss program three months ago today. It's been smooth sailing, until now.

She's dealing with a weight loss challenge women across the country with deal every day -- a weight loss plateau. She's gained back four pounds since we last spoke with her, but isn't letting that discourage her.

Do you have any tips or tricks to help Lisa get back on track? If you have any words of wisdom that helped you through your own plateau, leave them here!

Here's Lisa's latest photo at 345 pounds:



And here's this month's video. Watch now because we know you'll be seeing less of Lisa McNeil's next month!

Angela Hogan learns healthy cooking 101

The list of things you learn from your parents is never ending. Tying your shoes. Making the right decisions. Balancing your checkbook. Cooking. Unfortunately for Angela Hogan, her cooking lessons included plenty of fried food and few vegetables and fruits.

Angela was overweight since childhood. Growing up, a steady stream of fried, fast, and junk foods made their way to her plate. As she grew into adulthood, her eating habits didn't change, and her weight increased.

At 250 pounds, Angela was tired all the time, and never had energy to play with her daughter. She didn't think much of her escalating weight because her entire family was overweight. But when Angela's weight passed her dad's, she knew she needed to change her lifestyle.

Angela had never tried dieting before, and wasn't sure where to begin. Her husband encouraged her to get healthy with L A Weight Loss, so Angela decided to give it a try.

She joined her local Spartenburg, S.C., L A Weight Loss center in February 2007, and was paired with a personal weight loss counselor. Working one-on-one with her counselor, Angela learned how to cook the healthy way.

She still prepared foods she loves, but made adjustments to boost the nutritional value of meals. For example, Angela loves tacos, but replaced the ground beef with ground turkey.

She didn't stop there. Angela added significantly more fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and fish to her diet, and cut way back on the fried and fast foods. She also grabbed an L A Lite bar whenever she needed a snack or a sweet treat.

The weight started to melt away almost instantly. In one year, Angela has shed 85 pounds. At 165 pounds, she's only 15 pounds away from her weight loss goal of 150 pounds!

Now Angela exercises to accelerate her weight loss. She walks and does aerobics three times a week.

Angela is so much happier since losing weight. She can play with her daughter without getting winded, and never knew they could have so much fun together.

Best of all, her self confidence has dramatically improved. She always felt sexy with her husband, but for the first time ever, Angela feels that she looks sexy too.

There are some lessons from her parents that Angela will never forget, but she's happily let her family cooking tendencies die. Way to go, Angela!

Here's Angela at 250 pounds in 2007:



And here she is one year later and 85 pounds lighter:



FAST FACTS

Name: Angela Hogan
Hometown: Spartanburg, S.C.
Age: 31
Height: 5'7"

Starting weight: 250 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 165 pounds
Program start date: February 2007

Favorite food: Mexican.

Biggest temptation: Birthday cake.

Biggest motivator: Losing weight for her husband.

Biggest obstacle: Watching her family eat more than she can.

Old eating philosophy: Dining on fast and fried foods.

New eating philosophy: Cooking with lean meats, vegetables, and fruits.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling sexy in Victoria's Secret for the first time.

Best weight loss secret learned: You can still eat your favorite foods with L A Weight Loss.

Sassy side dishes

We know it can be challenging to keep your meals exciting, so for those of you looking to spice up your next meal, try out these sassy side dishes from the L A Lite Cookbook.

Each recipe contains vegetables you need to create a balanced meal. And they only take minutes to make.

Dilled Cucumbers

2 medium cucumbers, sliced or quartered
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup vinegar
1/2 tsp dill
Dash garlic powder
1 tsp. lite salt

Combine cucumbers, water, and vinegar in a sealable container.

Add dill, garlic powder, and salt. Toss to coat.

Let stand at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings: 4
Serving size: ½ cucumber



Sherried Mushrooms

1 cup fresh whole mushrooms
1 green onion, chopped
1/4 cup low-sodium broth
Pinch dried tarragon, crushed
1 Tbsp. dry sherry
1 tsp. cornstarch
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Gently clean mushrooms with a damp paper towel or soft brush.

In a medium skillet, combine mushrooms, onion, broth, and tarragon. Bring to boil; reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until mushrooms are just tender.

In a small bowl, whisk together sherry and cornstarch until smooth; stir into skillet.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Cook, stirring, until slightly thickened and bubbly. Continue to cook another 2 minutes before serving.

Servings: 1
Serving size: 1 recipe



These recipes are sure to shake up any meal! For more tasty ideas for your next side dish, pick up an L A Lite Cookbook, available at your local L A Weight Loss center.

Donna Gaddy's March Madness

It's hard to believe we've been following Donna Gaddy for four months, and it's time for another monthly update already. I'm happy to report that Donna has lost a total of 46 pounds and 19 inches!

Since beginning the program however, Donna has experienced some knee problems. This month she's scheduled for surgery that will hopefully fix her right up. And while she's healing, Donna plans on keeping active with her new exercise bike. Now that's what we call motivation! Keep up the great work, Donna!

Here's Donna's latest weight loss video:

L A Weight Loss befriends Facebook

Big news, everyone. L A Weight Loss has officially broken into the world of social networking! Our new Facebook group is the first of many ways you can connect with fellow clients and friends of L A Weight Loss.

There's photos, videos, and links to our favorite L A-related sites. And you can browse Facebook profiles of other group members, meet friends, and build your own weight loss support group. Take a look at the L A Weight Loss group, and become a member today!

Somer Lorenz debunks the law of threes

Some superstitious people believe momentous events happen in threes. And it just so happens when Somer Lorenz graduated from college, she experienced three incidents that significantly impacted her life. She got a job, met her husband, and put on weight.

Somer began working as a marketer in a South Carolina hospital and dating her husband around the same time. Involved in full-time work and a budding relationship, Somer found herself increasingly eating out.

As her schedule tightened, Somer spent less time making sure she had a balanced diet. Her weight increased. Somer thought she'd be able to shed the pounds, but after the birth of her first child, she found it difficult. After having her second child, she found it impossible.

Before she knew it, Somer weighed 163 pounds. She wanted to lose weight, but wasn't sure where to begin. A colleague at the hospital suggested L A Weight Loss, and Somer decided to give it a try.

In June 2006, Somer joined her local Greenville, S.C., L A Weight Loss center. She was paired with a personal weight loss counselor, who created a healthy eating program that fit her busy lifestyle.

Somer cut out the frequent fast and fried food stops, and added plenty of fruit, vegetables, and lean proteins to her diet.

Now, Somer is craving these healthy foods because they made her feel good. Two years ago, if you had asked her what her favorite food was, she would have told you a quarter-pounder with cheese. Today, she'll tell you it's a fresh salad with grilled chicken.

Since her days are fast-paced, she's also learned how to make the right decisions when grabbing a meal on the go. Her smart choices have carried over to her family. Somer's husband has lost 20 pounds just by eating what she eats.

And Somer's weight loss? She's down 31 pounds, and is on maintenance. She sailed past her goal weight, and now weighs 132 pounds.

Losing weight has made Somer's life easier. She has more energy to devote to home and work, and chasing her children around doesn't wear her out like it used to. In fact, Somer feels 10 years younger.

Best of all, Somer feels so much healthier. And she knows how to make the right choices to stay that way. The superstitious may swear by the law of threes, but Somer proves everyone can take control of their lives. Great job, Somer!

Here's Somer in 2006 at 163 pounds:



And here she is today, looking fantastic at 132 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Somer Lorenz
Hometown: Greenville, S.C.
Age: 31
Height: 5'6"

Starting weight: 163 pounds
Goal weight: 145 pounds
Current weight: 132 pounds
Program start date: June 2006

Favorite food: Grilled chicken salad.

Biggest temptation: Breads and pasta.

Biggest motivator: Seeing results.

Biggest obstacle: Learning how to lose weight with a busy schedule.

Old eating philosophy: Grabbing whatever is convenient.

New eating philosophy: Making choices that are healthy and satisfying.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better about herself.

Best weight loss secret learned: Take time to test the right foods for you to find the right balance.

Four-month update on Atlanta Weight Loss Challenge

We're four months down in the Atlanta Controltrim Weight Loss Challenge, and it’s getting fiercer than ever! With only two months remaining in the challenge, our 10 participants have lost a collective 139 pounds. Our top four losers have lost over 20 pounds each.

Alora Gaddy is in the lead for the third month straight with a total of 26 pounds lost. Second runner up is Matilda Tuma, down 22 pounds. In third and fourth place are Susie Powell, down 21 pounds; and Theresa Conklin, down 21 pounds.

The six-month challenge consists of 10 women following the L A Weight Loss program guidelines and using Controltrim, L A Weight Loss's new fat replacement product that can be added to baked goods, sauces, and dressings.

Participants who meet their goal weight by May 16 will be reimbursed for the program fee, and one grand prize winner will win a $1,000 shopping spree for a new wardrobe. Stay tuned for our next post as the women get closer to the finish line and their weight loss goals.

Maria Tyler takes a stand against weight gain

When you're a kid, the last thing you want to do is stand out in the crowd. And one of the worst reasons to stand out is being overweight. Just as Maria Tyler.

Maria had been overweight her entire life. Growing up, she didn't notice that her weight set her apart from her peers. It wasn't until she was a teenager that she realized she was the biggest kid on the block. Even then, Maria didn't think being overweight was anything unusual.

So she continued overeating and avoiding physical activity. It kept Maria's weight climbing into adulthood. When she reached her 40s, Maria had high blood pressure and was at risk for diabetes. At 193 pounds, she was always out of breath, and didn't feel healthy.

Then during a routine check-up, Maria's doctor put it bluntly: She needed to lose weight, or be at risk for serious health problems in the future. Her doctor suggested L A Weight Loss. So in April 2006, Maria signed up at her local Highland Park, Minn., L A Weight Loss center.

She was matched with a one-on-one weight loss counselor who taught Maria the importance of a well-balanced diet. Maria also learned plenty of tips for making healthy, tasty meals at home. She increased her intake of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, such as fish. Maria also cut fried food from her diet.

By adjusting her eating regimen, Maria began shedding pounds. In less than two years, she's lost 50 pounds.

At 143, Maria feels better than ever. She loves having choices when shopping for clothes, and is always able to find something she likes and that fits.

Maria doesn't suffer from shortness of breath anymore, and is able to move much easily. Best of all, she's reduced her chances of diabetes and other weight-related health issues.

Today, Maria is still standing out from the crowd. But it's not because of her weight, it's because of her good looks and confidence! Way to go, Maria!

Here's Maria at 193 pounds:



And here she is now at 143 pounds, looking (and feeling) better than ever! Congrats!



FAST FACTS

Name: Maria Tyler
Hometown: St. Paul, Minn.
Age: 44
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 193 pounds
Goal weight: 143 pounds
Current weight: 143 pounds
Program start date: April 2006

Favorite food: Cookies.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Receiving encouragement from her doctor.

Biggest obstacle: Getting past the plateau.

Old eating philosophy: Overeating.

New eating philosophy: Knowing what her body needs and when it needs it.

Best thing about losing weight: Being healthier.

Best weight loss secret learned: Hot water with lemon is a great, calorie-free, night-time treat.

Greetings from the blog's newest contributor!

Hello everyone! My name is Sandra Maltzman, and I'm the new Director of Nutrition Services for L A Weight Loss Franchise Company. I'll be contributing healthy eating tips and tricks of the trade, in addition to new recipes to help readers stay on their weight loss track.

I've been working in the nutrition and health industry for over 10 years, and I'm very excited to be a part of L A Weight Loss now.

I feel like I've done just about everything in the field, including sales and product development, new product research, community outreach, marketing, promotions, nutrition analysis, and allergy assessments -- whew!

My clients have been everyone from college students, to patients with rare metabolic disorders.

At L A, I'll be researching and developing all of the nutritional components for our programs and supplements. That means I'll be helping to figure out the healthiest things for you the eat that'll help you lose weight. I'll also oversee our staff of registered dietitians, and prepare nutritional training content.

So stay tuned, I'll be back soon with my first post!

Donna Gaddy's four-month update

It's that time of the month again ... for a Donna Gaddy update! It's been three months since Donna started her L A Weight loss program, and she's already lost 43 pounds. Wow!

Donna says she's gotten nothing but constant support from her friends, family, and L A Weight Loss counselors. And every little sacrifice has been worth it. Since dropping the pounds, her energy has greatly improved. Donna loves putting her hands on her waist and feeling the difference.

Take a look at Donna's newest video. And stay tuned for more next month!

Horse farmer reigns in unhealthy eating

With all of the physical work farmers do, you'd probably imagine they're in good shape. But that wasn't the case for Floyd Pepper. As a horse farmer, Floyd was so busy taking care of his animals, that he lost sight of taking care of his health.

Floyd's weight steadily increased throughout his life. He had always been active on his South Carolina farm, but it didn't counteract his unhealthy eating habits. He often chowed down on fried chicken, burgers, and chili.

Everyday activities became difficult for Floyd. He had high blood pressure, and was at risk for diabetes. Worse, Floyd lost the energy needed to maintain the farm, and his work suffered because of it.

At 320 pounds, Floyd was very lethargic, and he figured something was seriously wrong with his health. But he denied that the issue was his weight, until things got worse.

He could barely lift bags of feed, and his horse struggled to carry him on long trail rides. Floyd realized he needed to drop the pounds.

Floyd tried dieting, even to the point where he'd starve himself. But he couldn't shed the weight. He was considering gastric bypass surgery when a friend told him about L A Weight Loss. Desperate to lose weight, Floyd decided to give it a shot. He joined his local Easley, S.C., L A Weight Loss center, and was paired with a personal weight loss counselor.

His counselor taught him the healthy way to lose weight, without starving himself. Floyd added more fruits and vegetables to his diet, and learned many delicious ways to grill his food instead of frying it.

He also incorporated L A Weight Loss supplements into his diet, and treated himself to L A Lite bars to curb his sweet cravings. Floyd also learned the importance of portion control.

It wasn't long before Floyd saw the results of his new diet plan. After one year on the program, he's lost 82 pounds. At 238 pounds, Floyd is only 18 pounds away from his weight loss goal.

Now in the homestretch of his weight loss journey, Floyd is realizing the overwhelming physical benefits of losing weight. He has more energy than he's had in years, and his farm work is fun again. Floyd's blood pressure and blood sugars have dropped to healthy levels.

Floyd is now enjoying activities that he's been unable to do for years, such as water sports. He can also go on longer trail rides with his horse, and tries to run every day.

Floyd loves that he can get out of bed in the morning pain-free, and do the things he loves. His son and girlfriend are happy he's taken the steps to better health -- and so is his horse! ;)

Floyd is so happy about his weight loss, he tells everyone he knows about it. He's motivated a few friends to join the program too. Way to go, Floyd! Keep up the great work!

Here's Floyd at 320 pounds:



And here he is today, looking and feeling 15 years younger at 238 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Floyd Pepper
Hometown: Easley, S.C.
Age: 46
Height: 6'

Starting weight: 320 pounds
Goal weight: 220 pounds
Current weight: 238 pounds
Program start date: February 2007

Favorite food: BBQ ribs.

Biggest temptation: Beer.

Biggest motivator: Seeing the results.

Biggest obstacle: Sticking to his meal plan while on trail rides.

Old eating philosophy: Chowing down on whatever he wanted, then trying to lose weight by starving himself.

New eating philosophy: Eating more to lose more.

Best thing about losing weight: Gaining his life back.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eating well involves both healthy portions and healthy foods.