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Meet the woman who lost 63kg and reduced her long working hours for wellness

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Sarah Machin. Images by Caters News Agency
Sarah Machin. Images by Caters News Agency
CATERS NEWS AGENCY
  • Sarah Machin successfully lost weight after deciding to do so following a friend's birthday party.
  • Seeing a photo of herself from the event was a turning point for her.
  • She weighed about 143kg before her weight loss journey and would shy away from social situations and refuse to take photographs.
  • Since her 63kg weight loss she is more social and has cut down on her long working hours.

When the 40-year-old allowed one snap, it changed everything for her. Two years later, Sarah from Bingham, UK, gleams with pride as she flaunts her size 12 physique after losing 63kg.

"I have always been the bigger girl and constantly felt like the friend who was invited to make everyone else look thinner. I hated being in social situations as I felt awkward, and like everyone was looking at me," Sarah says.

READ MORE: Bride-to-be who weighed 129kg loses over 50kg for her upcoming wedding day

Speaking about when she saw the photo that made her unhappy with her weight, she says, "I went home immediately after and sobbed to my husband David, 51, who has always loved me for who I am."

Sarah shares that she gained weight due to her unhealthy eating habits, which included eating takeaways several times a week as she worked long hours, which left no time for home cooking. 

READ MORE: #MyTruth - 'A schoolmate's dad called me fat in Grade 4 and I've struggled with my weight since. I'm now 64'

In August 2018 she started using a flexible eating plan that discourages calorie counting and focuses on healthy foods, occasional indulgences, support through online or in-person meetings, and increased physical activity.

On that particular eating plan, no foods are banned, so meals offer balance and variety, and are family-friendly. 

Sarah says this is just what she needed. As the weight fell off, she also changed other previously unchecked parts of her life.

 "While losing weight, I had a significant life change and realised who I want to be - I realised I was working far too much and not thinking about my health," she explains.

"I would go to the office early and finish late without giving myself a lunch break to stretch my legs as I was so dedicated to my role. After working from 7 am until 7 pm, I wouldn't have the energy to cook, so frozen food or a takeaway was the easiest option."

She now pays more attention to how she uses her time and has gained more wellness overall.

READ MORE: 2 women who weigh 160kg and 300kg share why they feel ashamed of their bodies, plus 10 ways to rebuild your confidence

Losing the weight was tough as she had to learn how to adjust to new eating habits, but Sarah says her natural diet allowed her more recipe and menu options than takeaway meals.

"It is hard to believe you can still eat stuff such as curry but cooking it differently! My appearance hasn't just changed but my personality too, I am much happier and sociable - I love going out and clothes shopping," Sarah shares.

"I can wear anything and shop anywhere - it is great. I never thought I would see the day that I am addicted to exercising, but I now work out four times a week and run. David, who is an accountant, has basically got a new wife as I am half the size of the woman he married - he says he is proud of me."

Do you have a successful weight management story to share? Tell us about it here.

Story by Caters News Agency/ Magazine Features

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