A grandmother says her life is “unrecognisable” after losing 4st 9lbs since 2017.
Plymouth resident Kim Cole joined Slimming World six years ago following her retirement and says the 'food optimising plan' has helped her to keep the weight off.
The plan encourages slimmers to fill up on healthy and satisfying foods like fruits, vegetables and lean meat and fish.
After moving to Devon to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren, Kim decided she needed to be “fit and well” in order to help with childcare.
She had lost weight before but struggled to keep it off, and says the group setting has helped her to maintain a healthier lifestyle.
She said in quotes reported by Plymouth Live: “We wanted to live near our daughter who has two children.
“My youngest grandson was born with a neurological condition which affects his mobility along with other complex needs.
“I have helped to care for him since we moved nearby. Once he started getting around I was aware that I would need to be fit and well to continue helping with his care.
“I had lost weight before but had found it too difficult to maintain on a long term basis, so I joined Slimming World for support with my weight loss and discovered food optimising.”
Kim said the food optimisation plan means she doesn’t have to miss out of any particular food, which helps her stay on track.
She said: “Food optimising works for me as it doesn’t exclude any foods. The plan helps you to understand portion control and healthy alternatives. It has changed my eating habits for life.
“As a vegetarian the plan fits well into my food choices. My favourite meal is lentil Bolognese with cheese grated on top. My husband is happy to eat the same meals as me too.”
Kim said she benefits from the group setting too, as she is able to get other tips and ideas from other members. Thanks to the group, Kim says she is “happier” than ever.
She said: “Sharing tips and ideas has definitely helped me maintain my weight loss. Each week in group I pick up new ideas and recipes – even now after several years at target!
“My life is completely unrecognisable now and I’m happier, healthier and fitter than ever.”
As the weight came off Kim was able to do the things she’d dreamt of.
She said: "I can now enjoy a long walk without pain in my hips and knees. I can get on the floor to play with my grandson and get up again without having to hold onto furniture.”
Since reaching her target weight Kim has continued to attend the Plympton Slimming World group and believes without the constant support, she would have struggled to keep the weight off.
Slimming World members who achieve their target, which they set themselves, can continue to attend their local group every week for free as long as they stay within 3lbs either side of their target weight.
Kim said: "I’ve made so many friends that I can’t imagine not going to the group each week, they’re like a family to me now.
“Everyone inspired and supported me to achieve my target and now it’s my turn to do the same for other people, to show the same kindness, warmth and compassion that I was shown.”
