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Mom's 74 Pound Weight Loss - the Healthy Way!

New Mom Loses Weight the Healthy Way!

When Andrea Rosenbohm, mom of two-year-old Maddie, first set her sights on weight loss, she never expected to exceed her goals and above all, gain something even more meaningful - confidence! After years of struggling with her weight and self-worth, Andrea explains that she's proud and confident to share how she busted her "JLo booty" from a size 18 to a size 6!

What motivated you to lose weight?
At my heaviest, I weighed about 220 pounds. I was miserable and anxiety-ridden. I desperately wanted a baby, but I knew that I couldn't start a pregnancy so heavy. I struggled with my weight my whole life and knew that I never wanted my children, especially my daughters, to watch their mama ebb and flow. I wanted them to have a healthy role model so that they knew how important being healthy is. I wanted it to be the lifestyle they had always known.

What was your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge is sticking it out when the scale doesn't respond to how hard I'm working. A big part of weight loss is emotional and mental. Staying focused-- when you don't want to exercise, when you don't want to eat another piece of grilled chicken and when the scale stalls out-- is key to pushing forward toward your goals. There were days I wanted to give up, but for me the end goal was to look, feel and be healthy for my family. My daughter will grow up in a house where we eat a balanced diet and she won't have to learn to have an unhealthy relationship with food. We always treat ourselves because life is just better with sprinkle donuts, but these are always in moderation.

Was there a key turning point in your journey?
The turning point for me was realizing goals. I had a goal of 48 pounds and when I hit that, I realized that I could lose more and tone my body. I don't think I ever thought I'd actually hit my first l goal, so when the number popped up it was surreal. Now, 15 pounds lighter, I'm amazed at what we can do even when the voice in our head is doubtful.

How did you lose the weight?
From day one, I counted my calories. Everybody is different but the "calories in/calories out" plan is what my body responds to. I started at the higher end (1700-1900 calories per day) and then slowly adjusted as my body got smaller. For fitness, I was limited with a knee injury, so I've mostly done Pilates. I have added in extra strength training to build more muscle and get more definition in my body.

What types of foods did you eat to help you lose the weight? Did you have a go-to snack?

I tried to rotate my meals a lot throughout the process. Every day had variations of these basic things: whole grain breads, lean meats, low calorie cheeses, eggs, cottage cheese, yogurts and lots of fruits and veggies. My favorite snack that kept me feeling full and like I was getting a treat was a green apple with peanut butter. This helped me feel full in between lunch and dinner, while also making me feel like I was getting something sweet.

What tips would you give another new mom trying to get back into shape?
Don't compare yourself to other moms or friends. Everyone is different. What works for your mom, sister, sister-in-law or best friend may not work for you. Find what suits your body and lifestyle and do it to the best of your ability. Reward yourself as you go with clothes, shoes, etc. (not food) - and enjoy the journey to being healthy. The added bonus is a rockin' body!

What has inspired you to improve your self-confidence? Tell us in the comments below.

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