I’d first gained weight when I was pregnant with each of my two daughters. Each time I’d lose the pounds, feel really pleased with myself, then promptly pile them all back on (and a bit more besides) within six months. It was so demoralising.

The final straw

I knew I had to tackle my weight the day I found myself cutting the size 18 label out of my new jeans so no one would see what size I really was. ‘That’s it,’ I told myself. ‘I’ve really got to do something about it this time.’

I was so determined that I trudged through the snow to get to my first Slimming World group. Luckily, the welcome I got when I went in was much, much warmer!

A different way of eating

Going to group changed the way I thought about food; it helped me recognise that what I needed was to change my lifestyle, not just follow another fad. In fact, my whole mentality changed once I got to grips with Food Optimising, because for the first time in years I stopped feeling like I was on a diet.

I enjoy cooking, so I had fun poring over Slimming World magazines and articles online, hunting for recipe ideas and inspiration. It turned into a new hobby for me, and I really looked forward to trying out my discoveries. I loved the Southern-style breaded chicken recipe served with Slimming World chips and baked beans, oven-baked fish with roasted vegetables, and home-made burgers with salad and Slimming World coleslaw.

One of the things I liked most was that there was no counting calories or avoiding certain foods. My elder daughter moved back home and she lost 2st simply by eating the same meals as I did. I didn’t feel guilty or worry about what I was eating and so I really enjoyed my food; I think I single-handedly kept the strawberry fields going last summer!

Eating out, I’d look at the menu and say, ‘I’d like this dish, though could you cook it this way, please. And instead of this sauce, can I have some low-fat dressing on the side, plus I’ll have the boiled potatoes instead of the chips.’ It was great knowing there were always healthier options I could order without undoing my good work.

Life after target

I reached target and my journey there was fine; I’d found the weight came off steadily as long as I stuck to plan. Staying at target was more difficult to start with, though, until I stopped worrying about maintaining and just relaxed. My Consultant, Stefan, has been incredibly supportive from the word go, and he’s become a dear friend.

Now I’m a Diamond member, which means I’ve maintained my target weight for over a year. It’s a fabulous feeling.

New outlook

I’m more confident about fashion now and, because I feel younger, I dress younger, too – for instance, these days I might wear jeggings with ankle boots, which is quite a different look for me. I’m thrilled that I can borrow clothes from my elder daughter. Since I’ve lost weight I’ve been more willing to give new things a go in every area of my life, as I’m less afraid of what other people might think. I’m back to being myself again.

*Weight loss will vary due to your individual circumstances and how much weight you have to lose.