Nick C.

Nick's doctor told him he was killing himself when he tipped the scales at almost 400 pounds! Now, after following the principles of Joy's program, he's dropped more than 100 pounds — and is happier, healthier, and fitter than ever before!

BEFORE

AFTER

Age: 47
Height: 6'0"
Starting weight: 380" lbs
Current weight: 178 lbs
Goal weight: 200 lbs
Pounds lost: 102+*

As a young adult, Nick was heavy, but his weight wasn’t out of control. Eventually, though, his body took a turn for the worse. At 38, he had a minor heart attack. By 42, he was pushing 400 pounds, his blood pressure had soared dangerously high, and he was at risk for type 2 diabetes. That year, at Nick’s annual physical, his doctor bluntly said, “I don’t know what else to tell you, Nick. Change or you’ll die.”

Nick changed. By closely following Joy Bauer’s healthy eating principles, Nick lost more than 100 pounds, and he continues to lose. He doesn’t intend to stop until he weighs 200 pounds.

In His Own Words

Personal Diet Struggle: I need well-defined boundaries. I could go a year without eating pizza, but if I eat a single slice today, I’ll want two slices tomorrow — and a whole pie next week!

Life Changes Since His Weight Loss: I can bend far enough to tie my shoelaces, ride on a subway or bus without shame, buckle up on an airplane without a belt extender — and wear jeans!

Life Plans: I’m already registered to compete in a full triathlon in 2010. I will be ready!

Life Dreams: I’m on my way to getting what I’ve never had: self-esteem, self-respect, self-acceptance, and self-love.

Life Lessons:

  • – Who knew water was so important?! I drink two glasses 15 minutes before meals. By the time I eat, I feel too full to overeat.
  • – I start every dinner with a low-calorie, fiber-rich salad or vegetable soup to help fill me up, keep my appetite under control, and extend the meal so I don’t feel deprived.
  • – I avoid personal trigger foods, the things I simply can’t stop eating once I begin. For me, pizza and candy bars are dangerous.
  • – I stick with my meal plan when eating out by making special requests — serve the salad dressing, sauces, and condiments on the side; grill the chicken instead of frying it; and please don’t bring the bread basket to the table.

*Weight loss varies by individual. You may not achieve these results.