Meggan lost 23 lbs*
*At 6 months, participants in a clinical trial of the WeightWatchers® weight-loss program lost an average of 9.7 lbs (5% of body weight). And, people who track their food more often lose more weight. When actual WW members track their food at least two times a week for 6 months they lose on average 16.6 lbs. (7.9% body weight). Meggan lost weight on a prior program and is continuing on WeightWatchers. Watch Meggan as she moves forward towards her big day in the video below.
In Meggan’s words:
When I went in for a routine physical in May 2015, the number on the scale — and my high cholesterol levels — shocked me. I thought, “I’m young. This shouldn’t be happening.” My friend was on WW, so the next day, I joined, too. I was nervous about going to my first WW Workshop since I didn’t know what to expect. But the WW Coach was very welcoming, and having my friend by my side helped me feel comfortable.
Teacher becomes the student
The first steps
Fitting into the program wasn’t very hard. I am a former vegetarian so I already liked eating fresh fruits and vegetables. I’d eat big salads with a heaping portion of ranch dressing and lots of avocado. I’m from California so I also love my wine. I realized that I had to learn portion control. I also taught myself that I can’t eat the same amount as my boyfriend-turned-fiancé if I wanted to lose weight. Learning to track, weigh, and measure my food was the key to my success.
A team effort
For a few months, we tried a meal service where they send you all the ingredients in the mail to cook your meals. The meals weren’t always low in WeightWatchers values, so without my fiancé looking, I’d substitute some ingredients. However, slowly, he started asking about the values of foods. Sometimes, he’ll want to use my phone at the store so he can use the barcode scanner on the app! I’m grateful for his support.
A teacher’s life
As a fourth-grade teacher, it can get pretty busy in the classroom. I have a mini refrigerator in my room that I stock with yogurt, salads, fruits, vegetables, and sandwiches. Sometimes, when the students see me with fruits like pears or apricots, they’ll ask me what it is. I’m glad that I’m able to teach them healthy lessons. At recess, I have my students walk or run around the perimeter, and I’ll move with them, too. My students ask me if I got in all my steps for the day. They help keep me on track.
How Meggan’s Success with WW has improved her life
My why: my wedding
Though I’ve had success, I still have moments when it gets difficult. If I’m at a party or at a potluck at school, sometimes, I want the French toast, or I want the pizza. But then I think of my “why,” which is my upcoming wedding. Is that French toast worth it? Is the pizza worth it? I know I’ll be happier with myself if I stick to my fruits and vegetables. Thinking of my wedding keeps me focused on my goals. I can’t wait to slip into my wedding gown. I just know I’ll feel amazing. My goal over the next few months: To tone my arms for the big day!
A new outlook
I’m constantly learning new things along this journey. I’ve learned to appreciate myself in the process. I’ve learned that I want to take better care of my body. I buy only local, organic meats, fish, and produce, because fresh is important to me. I’ve learned to make time for myself, so that I can be the best person for my fiancé, my students, and my family. I’ve learned that if I can’t do something now, it doesn’t mean I won’t be able to ever do it. I say to myself, “I can’t do it yet,” but I know I’ll get there.
