Success Story: Ann

AKA "AnnRose" on Weight Loss Resources

Slimming History

I've previously tried Weight Watchers, Slimming Club, Atkins, Slimming World Diet and Slimmer UK. I lost weight on Slimmer UK, went on holiday and came back pregnant with my second son (!) and regained all the weight.

On Being Overweight…

I stopped going out and always used my children as an excuse. I felt old and unattractive. I always thought people did not like me because I was fat (and because I didn't like myself).

Motivation for Slimming

I went shopping with my 2 sons on Christmas Eve 2002. A young lad hit my car at the car park, when he got out I asked did he not see me... He replied, "Shut up you fat cow!" I was devastated. I could not believe what he had called me. I didn't even go shopping - I was too upset. I hated myself.

That was the turning point. I didn't want people to see me like that anymore and vowed to do something about it. I didn't wan t my boys to be embarrassed about that man calling their mum names.

Discovering Weight Loss Resources

I discovered WLR in Slimming Magazine.

How Weight Loss Resources Helps

It lets me know how much I have eaten each day; how many calories I have left; and whether I am eating enough fruit and veg.

Knowing I have to input my weight each week helps me not to cheat!

The positive feedback and advice from other members also encourages me!

I put a star on the fridge every time I lose a pound - it encourages me to keep going...

Tips on The Best of Weight Loss Resources

Food Diary and Database - I always fill in my food diary, and look at the calories and fat in foods on the database before I eat them.

Goals and Results weight pages - I like to look at the chart and see my weight and fat results going down.

Members Forum - I like to read the messages on the boards.

Ann's Tips for Slimming

• Measure yourself and fill in your results regularly.
• Read the message boards and members success stories to keep you motivated.
• Take up an exercise - I started yoga and belly dancing classes because I find the gym boring. These are more fun to me.
• Use the food diary - it has helped me control what I eat so I don't forget and go over my calorie allowance.

Finally...

I have tried lots of other diets (Weight Watchers, Slimming World, Slimming UK Clubs). Calorie counting works for me. I am a different person now. I can shop in normal clothes shops, pick something off the shelf and know it will fit.

I am wearing more fashionable clothing, and bought a pair of hipster jeans! I have not worn jeans since before I had my sons (aged 8 and 4 years). I feel younger and have started going out.

My sister-in-law was getting married and I was invited on the hen weekend - if I had not lost the weight I would never have had the courage to go. I went and had a wonderful time - I missed my husband and children, but I was Ann again for 24 hours, not mum nor wife.

I have not yet lost all my weight, but I am at a healthier size and weight. I am determined to lose the last 2 stone. I have come this far - there is no going back!

I cannot explain how good I felt when people started to notice the weight loss. I am still getting compliments - this is what keeps me going.

That man who insulted me at Tesco on Christmas Eve doesn't know what a big favour he has done me. That day was the turning point to a new, slimmer, healthier and happier me!