Well, here is the final tally for the last and overall challenges. Started this wellness journey on May 1st at the behest of Lolita Vasquez, a founding IDLife Member and Top Producer. I was at 361.8 lbs., 56.7 BMI, with blood sugar level at the prediabetes level, and other indicators, such as borderline high blood pressure and higher cholesterol levels, as well as not sleeping well at night. After just four months, I am down an incredible 88 lbs. (273.8 lbs.) and I have lost almost 1/4th of my body weight. This month alone I lost 25.7 lbs. (down from 299.5). What is even greater is that all my health indicators are now in the normal (healthy) range, save for weight. However, what I am most proud of is that I have become consistent in my workouts. I crave exercise. I have also incorporated strength training every other day and am focusing on my abdominal muscles daily. I can now run two miles straight and hope to run 5K races and longer soon (I used to run track and cross country in high school and actually made it to Regionals). My ultimate goal is to be between 180 and 200 pounds, but with toned muscles (six-pack abs). You can see I could not have done this without ID Life and the support and encouragement of others. Thank you, Logan Stout and IDLife for offering this challenge that for me will be a life-saver. You see, my dad is diabetic, and my mom uses a pacemaker. I do not want that for me!
I used to live a sedentary lifestyle, but now I am active. I use my Garmin Vivoactive HR to track my physical activities, heart rate, and sleep. I use the MyFitnessPal app to log my food (not necessarily counting calories) and physical activities to keep me honest and accountable. I consume a Vegan Protein Shake with cucumbers, kale, and peanut or almond butter in the mornings, and eat healthy food (mostly) the rest of the day. I drink lots of fluids, including ones with Hydrate, Pre, and Post, and use sleep strips at night for a healthier, deep sleep. My IDNutrition supplements give my body what it needs based on my health assessment answers (It has changed from when I first started). Though the contest has officially ended, I will continue living the active lifestyle that Logan Stout envisioned for himself and others.