Additional Coverage:
- A woman lost 159 pounds when she quit strict diets that left her feeling starving. She shared 2 tips that mean she’s never hungry. (newsbreak.com)
Maria Kirkeland, a 37-year-old from near Oslo, Norway, has successfully shed 159 pounds over two years through a combination of calorie management, increased protein intake, and strength training. After years trapped in a harmful cycle of bingeing and restrictive dieting, Kirkeland’s new approach focused not just on what she ate, but how she thought about food and exercise.
Her journey began in earnest in 2022 when, after trying numerous diets that only led to temporary weight loss followed by weight gain, she decided to employ a method different from her previous attempts. By counting calories and ensuring she consumed sufficient protein, Kirkeland found she was able to eat in a way that left her feeling full, which helped break the cycle of binge eating and restriction that she had struggled with for years.
One of the key aspects of her transformation was embracing strength training. Kirkeland found that not only did building muscle help with her physical health, it also contributed to her mental well-being by giving her a sense of achievement and joy.
Despite her success, Kirkeland acknowledges the ongoing challenges of managing her relationship with food. She maintains a flexible mindset, which allows for occasional indulgences in moderation and has adapted to a healthier lifestyle that includes more home-cooked meals and nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fish, and lean meats.
Since losing weight, Kirkeland notes that people’s attitudes toward her have changed, pointing to the often-discussed concept of “thin privilege.” However, she remains focused on her health rather than societal perceptions. Confident and no longer feeling hindered by her weight, she has even conquered fears such as zip lining, which she had previously avoided.
Maria Kirkeland’s story is not just one of losing weight but also of gaining a healthier and more joyous life through carefully considered lifestyle changes. Her experience highlights the importance of sustainable habits over quick fixes in achieving long-term health improvements.