How one woman achieved weight-loss success
Sweta Srivastava
Before: 230 lbs
After: 135 lbs
Growing up, Sweta Srivastava always wanted to participate in team sports, but her weight kept her stuck on the sidelines. Thanks to a friend's support and a newfound passion for martial arts, the 23-year-old benefits administrator from Toronto took 95 pounds off her 5'5 1/2" frame.
The Gain
As a teen, Sweta regularly indulged in late-night "snacks" of Chinese takeout. By high school, she was 200 pounds; in college, 24-hour buffet-style dining halls tacked on 30 more.
The Change
After she graduated in May 2007, a pre-med pal warned Sweta that her weight put her at risk for heart disease, diabetes, and possibly an early death. It shocked her into action.
The Lifestyle
Eating small, healthy meals throughout the day curbed Sweta's urge to snack at night. Suddenly, she had more energy. "Big meals made me feel lethargic," she says. Spinning and kickboxing classes helped her shed 50 pounds. Then she took up Muay Thai, a form of martial arts, and dropped 20 more. In January 2009, she began working with a personal trainer, and she reached her goal weight of 135 pounds seven months later.
The Reward
Sweta scored her first pair of jeans—she'd always been too heavy for them—and tons of confidence. "Now I'm looking forward to the next challenge," she says.
Sweta's Tips
 Read labels. "I don't buy any food that has 15 grams of fat or more."
Keep gym clothes in your car. "I never have an excuse not to exercise."
Try a class. "Instructors will push you harder than you might push yourself."
(information from Women’sHealth - http://www.womenshealthmag.com/weight-loss/weight-loss-success-story-24)
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