Achieving Sustainable Weight Loss: M/21’s Journey From 400 to 180Lbs

Reddit user, Volzear, documented his 2-year journey from obesity to a healthy weight in a series of posts. He lost 220lbs and achieved his goal weight through a combination of calorie restriction and increased physical activity. His progress photos showcase his transformation from a 4XL to a medium.

Calorie Restriction and Increased Physical Activity

Volzear underwent his transformation through a rigorous calorie counting approach. His decision to limit sweets and soda was a natural outgrowth of his practice of counting calories. He also increased his activity level over time, although he did not incorporate formal exercise into his daily routine. The key to sustainable weight loss, he believes, is a transformation of eating habits and mindfulness of the foods he consumes.

Sustainable Eating Habits

Volzear admits that he doesn't eat the 'healthiest' foods, but he found a way to integrate foods he enjoys into a healthy eating plan. He eats pizza, Mexican, and hamburgers and fries, but he drinks only water and unsweetened tea. His food intake dropped significantly over time as his mindset around food changed: eating became less of a habit and more of a conscious decision.

Positive Mental Changes

It's not just his body that has undergone a transformation: Volzear found that his relationship with food became healthier too. As he gained confidence in his ability to control his caloric intake, he developed healthier habits and mindfulness around food, which he believes will help him sustain his weight loss.

Conclusion: Achieving Sustainable Weight Loss

Through his journey, Volzear found the key to sustainable weight loss: calorie restriction, increased physical activity, and a commitment to mindful eating habits. His transformation didn't happen overnight--in fact, it took two years for him to achieve his weight loss goals--but, as his progress photos demonstrate, it was worth it. Volzear wants others to know that sustainable weight loss is possible if they are patient with themselves, are mindful of their calorie intake, and find an approach to food that works for them.