Additional Coverage:
- A 37-year-old busy mom lost 100lbs and kept it off. Here’s her 3-step strategy. (businessinsider.com)
Local Mom Achieves Incredible 100-Pound Weight Loss, Shares Her Inspiring Story
Brianna Oyewo, a busy mom of two from outside Buffalo, New York, has triumphed over a lifelong struggle with her weight, losing an impressive 100 pounds and, even more impressively, keeping it off. Her journey began in 2020, prompted by concerns about her weight, emotional eating habits, the pandemic, and impending motherhood.
Oyewo knew it was time for a change. “I’ve been overweight my entire life,” she shared.
“I had to do something differently. I wanted to be an active mom, running around on the playground with my kids.”
Oyewo used the extra time at home during the pandemic to focus on healthier eating and regular exercise. She saw remarkable results, losing 100 pounds in just six months.
However, her initial success led to overly restrictive habits, and friends and family expressed concern. After her second pregnancy, Oyewo recognized the need for a healthier relationship with food and exercise.
Now 37, Oyewo juggles a full-time government job, a personal training side hustle, and motherhood. She’s found a balanced approach to nutrition and fitness that allows her to maintain her weight loss and enjoy a fulfilling life.
Her secret? Focusing on sustainable habits and celebrating non-scale victories, like having more energy to play with her children.
“It’s not about what I could lose,” Oyewo explained, “but what I’m gaining.”
Oyewo revamped her diet, initially cutting carbs and intermittent fasting. While effective for weight loss, these methods became too restrictive.
Today, she prioritizes a flexible, high-protein diet, aiming for at least 80 grams of protein and no more than 25 grams of added sugar daily. She focuses on healthy, enjoyable foods and doesn’t meticulously log every morsel.
A typical day might include Greek yogurt with fruit and a protein shake for breakfast, a large salad with protein for lunch, snacks like pretzels, granola, and fruit, and dinner featuring chili, soup, or chickpea pasta. Oyewo’s advice to her past self?
“Focus on what you can add – more protein, veggies, and healthy fats. Listen to your body, and enjoy treats in moderation.”
Her exercise routine is equally practical. Starting with YouTube workout videos at home, Oyewo initially overtrained, exercising for up to two hours daily, even when sick.
Now, she works out three to five days a week for 30 minutes to an hour, incorporating movement into her workday with walks and quick stair climbs. She often includes her children in her workouts, using toy dumbbells to make fitness a family affair.
Oyewo emphasizes consistency over strict adherence. “Even 15-20 minutes is better than nothing,” she says.
Oyewo credits her success to a strong support system. Her husband, a physical therapist, along with friends and family, provided encouragement and accountability.
She also sought professional guidance from her doctor, a nutritionist, and a therapist, who helped her transition to sustainable habits. “Don’t try to be superwoman,” she advises.
“Ask for help.”
Read More About This Story:
- A 37-year-old busy mom lost 100lbs and kept it off. Here’s her 3-step strategy. (businessinsider.com)