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Name:
Michael A.
Starting Weight:
367 lbs.
Current Weight:
225 lbs.
Weight Loss:
142 lbs. (64 kg)
Approach:
Keto
Life before keto:
Living in the South–South Carolina specifically–Michael had a hard time controlling himself when it came to food. “We love our food and sweet tea!” he says. But when a herniated disk cost him an entire vacation with his children (and, to make it worse, he was told that he might not fit in the MRI machine!) Michael heard the wake-up call.
In 2016, he weighed his heaviest, at 367 pounds (166 kg). He had collected a few ailments to go with the weight: he was pre-diabetic and had issues with his cholesterol and testosterone levels.
Michael’s diet consisted of fast food, sugary snacks, and gallons of his favorite southern sweet tea. “I was an emotional eater,” Alexander said. “I used food whendepressed or happy. It’s always been something that comforts me.”
The first Dr. Berg video that Michael saw illustrated what sugar does to the body. Since then, he’s been a loyal subscriber, watching informational videos regularly. “Dr. Berg explains everything so well and in a way that is easy to understand,” he said. “I like the way he is straightforward and pulls no punches.”
After starting keto:
The hardest part of keto for Michael was giving up bread and sweets. He saw what power sugar had over him. But he remained motivated, because of his kids, to maintain this healthier lifestyle. He was encouraged by losing 27 pounds (12 kg) within the first month; seeing continuous change kept him going.
“I can do more things with loved ones now,” he said. “And that feeling you get when your clothes fit…it’s amazing.”
Michael, like many others, has had some cheat meals along the way, but wishes he hadn’t, since it only makes it harder to get back on track. And speaking of things he’d do differently, looking back: “I also would’ve gone to the gym and tried to tone up while losing weight.”
Health improvements:
Even with minor setbacks, since starting keto, Michael has lost and kept off a total of 142 pounds (64 kg).
Advice for someone starting keto:
“Give it 30 days,” he advises. “Stick to the basics, and you will have success.”
Out of all of Dr. Berg’s advice, strategies, and tips, there were two things he learned that helped then most: “Switching to better quality foods and making sure I eat my greens,” says Michael.
Favorite ways to exercise:
Michael enjoys walking and light weight training.
Favorite keto recipe:
Crack slaw.
