Growing up in America with two working parents, food was an afterthought. We ate whatever was quick and convenient. Fast food, pizza, macaroni and cheese, pop tarts, and 2 minute noodles were staples. Through University and into adulthood the food habits that I established as a child did not change.

However, being naturally active and having a large frame I managed to hide my weight for most of my life. A few times, like after my children were born, I used diets like Weight Watchers to drop a few kgs. Each time I didn’t change my lifestyle and after a while I returned to my previous food habits.

The last few years have been the hardest and I found myself 39 years old and 82 kgs. After the lockdown in May, I decided that I didn’t want to do another diet. I wanted to learn new habits. I wanted to change my lifestyle before I turned 40.

Lynda helped me write a food plan. She took a good deal of time explaining the reasons for each item and making sure that I liked the foods we picked. I decided to add My Food Bag’s Fresh Start food box to the plan. This has helped me learn how to cook new dishes and I look forward to a nice meal each evening.

In the last four months, I have lost 9.5 kgs of fat and I currently weigh 70kgs. It isn't always easy sticking to the plan, particularly in the beginning. But it helps knowing that I will see Lynda and have to account for my food choices.

The best part about my journey with Nutrition for Life, is I have changed my eating habits. I no longer crave sugar and carbs. I actually look forward to things like berries and roasted root vegetables. I find myself looking at food and thinking “it’s not worth the calories”. I plan for evenings out and limited indulgences. I find that when I do have a “treat” I appreciate it and savour the moment because they do not happen everyday.