*How to lose 20 pounds in less than a year.*

BEFORE: 

AFTER: 

I know there are many of you who struggle with weight every day. Fortunately, I've never been overweight, but in 2008, I started to feel the effects of my unhealthy eating patterns. I gained 20 pounds and kept on the weight in four months. When I turned 20, I decided it was time to get healthy and keep slim. I started a low carb diet. I began to eat a big breakfast, which consisted of oatmeal, fruit, or a low cal muffin, or an egg white omelet. For lunch, I ate a salad with grilled chicken, steak, or salmon with oil and vinegar sprinkled lightly. At dinner time, I ate chicken, salad, a scoop of brown rice, or a salad with chicken, or a piece of fish. For snacks, I ate almonds, chips, etc., but followed the serving size. When I began my experience as a cocktail server at the Seminole Hardrock Hotel & Casino, I weighed 155 pounds. In less than six months, which included exercising two days a week, I weighed 135 pounds. I went from a size large short in my uniform to a size small. My upper body stayed the same shape, but my belly was flat. Most importantly, I never starved myself! I stayed healthy and ate right. Of course, holidays are cheat days. Once a month won't kill you. I avoided all fast food restaurants, such as McDonalds, Burger King, and Wendy's. I haven't eaten at any of them in four years. If you want to lose weight, try my way, the healthy way. It requires dedication and a healthy mind frame. In the end, hard work always pays off. I've swayed away from the complete healthy lifestyle, but have maintained an average wait of 140-145 pounds at 5'8. Be happy, don't waste away in misery. Get healthy!