Weight Loss Wednesday: Pat Lost More Than 100 Pounds By Cutting Carbs and Sugar from Her Diet!

Photo Credit: Pat Hughes
At 275 pounds, Pat Hughes was in denial about how much her extra body weight was limiting her physical activity on a daily basis.
So the 55-year-old grandma decided to change her life by following the Atkins diet weight loss plan — a program that provides participants with simple, low-carb recipes — and has lost an astonishing 112 pounds over a year-and-a-half!
“Not only do I feel great, but I am healthier and have a lot more energy — [and] I feel pretty!” Pat exclusively shared with ‘Closer Weekly.’
Read on to find out how Pat successfully lost the weight and turned her life around!
Pat before her significant weight loss.
- What was your life like before the weight loss?
I have always led a fairly active life, or so I thought. I truly did not realize how much my extra weight did slow me down until after I started losing a substantial amount of weight. I would always tell others I could get around just fine, but truthfully, I was just telling myself that as a form of denial. Little things like climbing a simple flight of stairs was difficult to do without huffing and puffing. My weight did hinder me from small things that most people take for granted. I was determined not to be fat in my fifties — my forties were my heaviest years.
Related Story: Paula Lost More Than 100 Pounds to Be Healthy for Her Kids!
- How did you get started with your weight loss journey?
In 2007, I started a ‘Biggest Loser’ contest at the school where I was working to motivate myself to lose the weight. [Later] I started the Atkins plan… and my weight started dropping. I cut out sugars and carbs. I eat Atkins frozen meals for lunch and usually have an Atkins meal bar or shake. When I had major back surgery last June, my exercise program came to a screeching halt — I have had to build my exercise program back up since then. When I was in full swing I would work out at least five times a week [by walking or using the elliptical].
Pat after her 112-pound weight loss.
- What were the most difficult aspects of losing the weight?
It has been a long journey. I had some tough days trying to stay motivated, especially those plateau days everyone hits. I also love to cook, bake and entertain [so] that aspect of my life sometimes makes [dieting] hard. The good news is if I want to indulge in the foods I can’t eat on a regular basis, l do… I just can’t eat carbs, fried foods and sugars on a daily basis. With this much weight loss comes a few physical issues, too. I have a lot of loose skin. It’s not pretty… and it is a daily reminder of the weight issues I have dealt with throughout my life. I am hoping to one day be able to get it surgically removed.
- How does it feel now that you’ve lost the weight?
I feel great. I will always follow the Atkins plan. Not only do I feel great, but I am healthier and I have a lot more energy. I feel pretty. I have had such fun rebuilding my wardrobe. I tell everyone, if l can do this, anyone can achieve their weight loss goals. I’m just a 55-year-old grandma — no gimmicks, just work, diet and sheer determination!
To submit your own weight loss story, email (jbirkinbine@bauerxcel.com).