“To succeed in this weight loss journey, you need to be consistent… and patient,” she says.
Toffo Zulu
Occupation: Self Employed
Age: 32
Weight before: 85 Kg
Weight after: 65 Kg
Height: 1.5m
Time required to reach current weight: 3 months
Secret weapon: She cut out refined carbs
READ MORE: “I Chose To Nourish My Body With Healthy Food And Lost 30 Kilos”
The Gain
Toffo was never struggled with her weight… but that all changed after she became pregnant. “I had a smooth and healthy pregnancy. but I ended up gaining weight — lots of it,” she says. She gained over 30 kilos thanks to her pregnancy cravings. “I ate almost everything and just couldn’t control my cravings — I’d even drive in the middle of the night to go buy junk food.”
She couldn’t exercise either — I was diagnosed with fibroids and my gynaecologist advised against doing physical activities”
READ MORE: 4 Sweet Treats So Healthy They’re Basically Salads
The Change
“A close friend sent me a picture she took while I was still in hospital, post-labour. I was shocked — the woman I saw in that photo was not the Toffo I knew. I looked twice my age and it depressed me,” she says.
She decided it was time to make a lifestyle change. First, she took a long, hard look at her diet. “I fuelled my body with loads of proteins and veggies, and reduced my sugar intake. I also cut out refined carbs completely,” she says. Carbs zapped her energy levels and she refused to be a tired mom… she needed all her energy for her newborn.
READ MORE: Exactly How Many Carbs You Should Eat If You’re Trying To Lose Weight
The Lifestyle
These days Toffo’s diet is not strict, but it is consistent. “I still have cheat days every now and then,” she says. She does encourage discipline however. “Always watch what you eat — even when you cheat. You always need to be aware of your portions.”
She still had everything she loved, the only difference is, she served them in healthier options. “More veggies, and less junk, more water and less soda,” she says.
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The Reward
“My driving force were the negative comments I got from some people — they motivated me to keep at it,” she says. A few months later, and 20 kilos lighter, Toffo feels brand new and has regained her self-confidence. “I got myself a new wardrobe — one to represent the new and fabulous mom that I am,” she says.
READ MORE: Amanda du Pont’s Flat Abs Secret
Toffo’s Tips
— You can do great things.
But you have to be determined and consistent.
— Monitor your progress
Take weekly pictures and try spotting the difference. It motivates you.
— Remember why you started.
It’s a journey not a race.
Ready to transform your life too? Check out Carol and Nokukhanya’s weight loss journey for inspiration.