Weight loss story: “I followed 15:9 intermittent fasting and walked 8-10k steps daily, lost 20 kilos”

It took 6 months for Sylvia Thomas to lose her post-pregnancy weight gain. While it wasn’t an easy task, she gave it her all and managed to lose 20 kilos. Following intermittent fasting, having a low-carb diet and working out regularly helped her achieve her weight loss goals. Here’s a look at how she did it…

Also read: Weight loss story: “Protein was an important part of my diet; helped me lose 30 kilos”

Name: Sylvia Thomas

Occupation: Process excellence professional

Age: 36

Height: 173 cm

City: Chennai

Highest weight recorded: 90 kg

Weight lost: 20 kg

Duration it took me to lose weight: 6 months

Post-pregnancy, I gained a lot of weight - so much so that it became extremely difficult for me to even go about my daily course of activities. I was unable to play with my daughter, felt too conscious about my appearance and nearly lost my confidence. Major turning point was when I didn't fit into most of the outfits in my wardrobe.

My breakfast: Banana, mixed nuts especially roasted groundnut, boiled green gram

My lunch: Curd, veggies, and occasionally very little rice or a chapati

My dinner: A proper meal with two dosa/idli/small bowl of rice, curry with chicken/fish/veggies and eggs

Pre-workout meal: Protein shake, at least one fruit each day.

Post- workout meal: Chamomile tea

I indulge in (What you eat on your cheat days): Biryani and choco fudge

Low-calorie recipes I swear by: I usually don't avoid any food. For me, it is mainly portion control and low carb recipes.

I try to hit 8000 to 10000 steps every day and workout at the gym at least for an hour for 5 days a week. My schedule focuses on HIIT, core strengthening, and weights for different parts of the body.

Fitness secrets I unveiled: Consistency is key. Enjoy the journey and do not force yourself too much. This could sabotage your fitness goals.

I did not buy clothes for a long time, my only goal was to fit into my wardrobe clothes once again. My husband was my main source of inspiration.

How do you ensure you don’t lose focus?: I read a lot of fitness success stories and imagined myself in the shape that I wanted to achieve. But I also forgive myself if I miss a few days of my routine.

You are like a different person and don’t feel like being yourself. It is not just about appearance but also about flexibility. In addition, physical illnesses like back pain, knee pain also follow. They tend to derail your performance.

What was the lowest point for you?: Losing my self image and confidence.

What shape do you see yourself 10 years down the line?: I want to lose some more weight and maintain the healthy lifestyle choices I have picked up during this weight loss journey. It makes me feel good both physically and mentally.

Apart from the diet choices, I started following 15:9 intermittent fasting on a daily basis. So it was a combination of intermittent fasting, low-carb and consistent workout.

Lessons learnt from weight loss: Nothing is impossible if you set your mind to it.

If you have a weight loss story to share, send it to us at toi.health1@gmail.com

These views are not generic in nature. Weight loss results vary for individuals and the views shared in this article offer no guarantee of specific results. The content is not intended in any way as a substitute for professional advice.