Different strokes for different folks

Every body (the one you LIVE in) and every person is unique and different. So are the dietary needs of each person. What works well for one person might not work at all for another. Fad diets aren't one size fits all, either. Instead, it's a game of trial and error for most.

Every person has sensitivities and intolerances to certain foods, even if they aren't aware of it. The only way to know for certain is to be tested for food allergies or to try the process of elimination. The latter is what has worked for me.

I had been struggling for a long time just to lose five pounds and keep it off. I thought that staying under a daily caloric goal and exercise were enough, but I was wrong. My path crossed with that of a nutritionist who has changed my life.

After doing a week-long detox, I lost five pounds. Finally, success! The next phase was to add certain foods back into my diet with the exception of gluten and grains. It's still working. I'm losing at a consistent rate and I couldn't be happier.

It took over two years to reach this point, and although I wish it had happened sooner, I've learned a very valuable lesson along the way.

Every body and person is different. Listen to what your body is telling you. It's talking to you every day, letting you know what it needs. Consider the common foods that cause allergic or inflammatory reactions. Do you think one of those could be the culprit? Take inventory of the foods you eat regularly and how you feel after consuming them. The process of elimination might help you tweak that. If you're still stumped, see a nutritionist. It just might change, or save, your life.

Progress is still progress even if it's slow

To date, I'm down 26.6 pounds. It's taken a long time to get here. It's taken a lot of ups and downs, trial and errors, tears and sweat. But I got here.

I contemplated gastric bypass surgery. I met with a slew of nurses and counselors and nutritionists. I spent many hours weighing the pros against the cons. Ultimately, I decided it wasn't for me. I knew there had to be another option.

After a chance meeting with a nutrition counselor at a seminar at work, that other option finally presented itself to me. Under the supervision of a doctor and a nutritionist, I successfully completed a seven day detox. It was hard, but it was empowering. I felt amazing when it was over.

The next phase was cutting out gluten and most grains. It turns out that this was exactly what my body needed. The pounds are still steadily coming off and I feel great. Once more, my hope is renewed.

My journey thus far has taught me how to let go, stay strong, and never give up. I never thought I'd be able to say I had lost 26.6 pounds. Now I can.

The journey isn't over yet. Far from it. But I'm excited to continue.