West Lothian woman sheds incredible six stone after simple 'food swaps'
A West Lothian woman has told how her incredible weight loss transformation put an end to "feeling miserable and depriving herself."
Karen Kozlowski, from Livingston, has lost an impressive 6st 2lbs after joining Slimming World as she realised her weight was preventing her from living the life she wanted.
Karen had tried losing weight in the past but never found consistent success from cutting out her favourite foods from her diet and eating completely different meals to her family.
The 54-year-old admitted previous attempts even saw her stop socialising altogether, reports the West Lothian Courier.
Karen has described Slimming World as "a complete game-changer" and has enjoyed fast results by making simple food swaps and enjoying "real food."
She said: "I joined Slimming World and I was amazed - I lost weight without depriving myself and feeling miserable.
"When I've tried to lose weight before it's always meant cutting out my favourite foods, eating something completely different to my family or to stop socialising altogether.
(Image: West Lothian Courier)
"But when my consultant Sue explained how Slimming World's plan worked it felt like a total game-changer. I started making simple swaps, enjoying real food and seeing results fast.
"I felt the difference, and for the first time, I knew these changes were something I could stick with! As a vegetarian I find the recipes amazing and I love being able to still have curries and pasta dishes with my family.
"I'm never hungry, and it's so easy to enjoy meals together as a family or with friends. Best of all, I'm giving my loved ones something weight loss surgery or drugs never could - delicious, nutritious food and healthy habits for life.
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"Before joining Slimming World I was put on two different types of blood pressure medication and had severe back pain. As I have lost the weight I feel so much more confident in clothes, am no longer on blood pressure medication, have lowered my cholesterol and am now fitter than ever."
Karen's weight has gone from 18st 12lb to 12st 10lb as she insisted support from her local group helped her adapt to new food plans and ideas that made all the difference.
She has now built healthier habits and has remained focussed and consistent with her choices.
Karen added: "I've transformed how I eat, how I think about food, and I've made regular activity part of my routine. I'm more confident than ever, and for the first time, I truly believe I can maintain my weight loss for life.
"I even did the Edinburgh kilt walk last year which was something I would never considered doing before but I am super proud I have and really enjoyed it."
To find your nearest Slimming World group go to www.slimmingworld.co.uk or head along to Sue's group in East Calder Bowling Club every Tuesday at 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm and Wednesday's on 9.30am and 11.30am.
Call Sue on 07803 520781 for more information.
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