What is your age and where do you live?

Age: 67, I live in NV

How did you find sugarfreemom and when did you decide to join the 6 week Sugar Detox course?

The sugarfreemom.com link came up on my computer screen when I was looking for low carb recipes. I joined the 6-week Sugar Detox course & started on May 1^st, 2025.

Did you have any health or weight struggles before joining the course and membership?

Yes, I had some serious weight struggles before joining the course. I was having a lot of reactions to food in general. When I started the program, I just ate meat & vegetables.

I stopped all grains, wheat, gluten, dairy, high carb vegetables like corn. Within 1 week I was having less reactions to food on my plate. I immediately started feeling lighter with reduced joint pain.

What other programs have you tried before joining the sugar detox program?

I have tried a variety of diets such as:

• Optiva (this is prepackaged food, low calories, puts you into ketosis, you eat every 2 hours). I lost 50 lbs on this program but gained it all back within 6 months of going back to eating regular food.
• I tried Weight watchers (this didn’t work for me at all). I tried Atkins (but I got constipated on this strict program & I felt tired most of the time).
• I also lost 50 lbs in Lindora (over a 6-month period). All the weight came back when I went back to eating regular food. (I purchased a lot of Lindora food from the office I visited weekly).

How much weight did you lose and what other non scale victories have you had?

So far, I have lost 40 lbs. I am still 10 lbs from my initial goal. (At the urgent care I was 205 lbs) This triggered me to go home & look for an online program to connect with.

My liver enzymes are all within normal range now. Blood sugar levels are in normal range now.

I sleep better not only due to my blood sugar is normalized now, but I also sleep better now because I do movement daily now & that has become a regular thing for me.

On the 1^st of each month, I take my measurements on my abdomen, chest, arms, hips, legs & neck. I also take a photo 1^st of each month from the front, back & sides.

This helps me see my progress visually. Especially when I look back at the first few months.

I work-out with weights for my upper body 3 days a week, twice a week lower body, 3 times a week my core.

I try to walk daily (at least 5 days a week). My workouts are limited to 30 minutes (I avoid exhausting myself). I am getting stronger, now working out with many of my exercises with 10 lb dumbbells, I started back in May with 6 lb dumbbells.

What does a typical day of eating look like for you now?

A typical day of eating looks like now: I start eating at 10am – I go to bed around 10pm. So I try to have a 12-hour fasting window each day.

Breakfast is usually a piece of sausage or liver & some greens. My goal with each meal is at least 30 grams of protein.

Lunch I have more meat & vegetables. Dinner meat & vegetables.

If I get hungry between meals or crave something with chocolate…I will make myself a chocolate protein shake that has 2 grams of carbs & 30 grams of protein with coconut milk.

I consciously plan out my water each day, I fill up my glass jars…put them on the dining table. I make sure I drink them before the day is done.

I plan out my meals the night before, taking out whatever I need from the freezer. I plan out all meals that have protein, 1 month in advance.

I cook for foods in a “batch” manner. Now I make 2 lbs of turkey, chicken or beef meatballs in advance & freeze them.

I always have Primal sauces on hand that I can add to my meals.

I always keep the egg noodles on hand when I am craving something that looks & tastes like a carb.

I am prepared with my own healthy snacks, ie. Cottage cheese, plain yogurt, piece of string cheese wrapped in a slice of ham or baked pig skins.

For dessert I have 2 tbsp heavy cream over ½ cup frozen blueberries

What SugarFreemom recipes or resources have helped you?

The Sugar Free Mom recipes that have helped me greatly with dinner variety and tasty desserts.

The Sugar Free Mom keto chocolate cake (I make them in donut shapes), all her meatball recipes, and breakfast recipes have been great for us.

My latest & best tip for my family has been the low carb keto & ham cottage cheese egg muffins. I make them & freeze them. When they want some food, they heat 2 up in a pan for 5 minutes (this is so healthy & fills them up).

What have you learned from your journey?

I celebrate where I am now, I praise myself & tell myself, “you’re doing a great job…these changes are successful…I am getting stronger…I have greater endurance.

I am sleeping deeper & I feel rested when I wake up…the scale isn’t everything…I look at all wins in my life…I am winning & learning each day.

I’ve learned how to travel and stay on track. I pack all my food in a small travel pouch.

I’ve learned self-care as a priority. Weekly group support is working for me.

I attend the accountability group on Monday nights, the Tuesday group in the morning, Wednesday Coaching from you & Accountability group on Thursday night.

Final thoughts or takeaways?

You never know the advantages your family will also have when you make changes.

My blood sugar is stable now; I have very few a-fib events that were triggered by low blood sugar & foods that were causing inflammation in my system.

I prepare & cook much healthier meals for my family. They love the new recipes I am making.

My husband has lost 20 lbs & walking with me almost every day. My son & husband are both eating the healthy protein snacks I make for them.

My husband has stopped all the brown sugar to his tea, this was a lifelong habit that I worried he would never break.

This photo is taken 3.2.26, in the photo at the top of the page, my size 12 black shorts that I wore when I started the program & they were tight on me.

I had 3 c-sections, a lot of fat would accumulate 2″ below my bellybutton. At the start of the program this area was 46 inches. 

In my size 8 red shorts (the same company of the black shorts) but a smaller size. My waist today is 36.5. (4.5 inches off my waist). 2″ below my belly button is now 38.5 (7.5 inches off this area). 

You can listen to Jeanne’s interview here, just scroll down until you see her video with her long hair down.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SUGARFREEMOM TRIBE COMMUNITY AND GROUP COACHING PROGRAM.

LIVER RESET STARTS APRIL 1st!

The post Jeanne’s Weight Loss Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

What is your age and where do you live?

52, Arundel, Maine

How did you find SugarFreeMomTribe.com and when did you join?

I have been following you on FB for YEARS and making recipes here and there. I decided the day before the MMM program started to try one final thing and give up because that is what my doctors were telling me anyway.

Did you have any weight struggles before joining the course and membership?

Yes, my weight issues/struggles started in my early 30’s, like 32/33.

What other weight loss programs had you tried and how successful were they to keep your weight off?

Weight Watchers for years and it worked until it didn’t, My Fitness Pal (calories), then I tried increasing my protein intake, HITT workouts, running, NOTHING budged the scale. Not even ½ pound. Nothing.

How much weight did you lose and what other non scale victories have you had?

 I have lost 34 pounds to date. I can bend over and tie my shoes without gasping for air because my stomach was so big!!

I am now in a size 6 pants. I haven’t been a size 6 since I was 19/20 and that was very short lived – I only had one pair of size 6 jeans because it didn’t last long. I averaged a size 8 most of my life until 32/33.

Measurements on 8/4/2025 were:

Hips 44

Chest 42

Waist 41

Arms 12.5

Thighs 20

Measurements on 2/22/2026

Hips 37

Chest 34.5 (boy do my bras feel different!!)

Waist 33.5

Arms 11

Thighs 20

What were you typically eating before making this lifestyle change?

My portions were out of control. I was eating enough for 2 but when I tried to decrease my portions in the past, I’d get the shakes, feel weak, and dizzy but not this time because I am fueling my body with the RIGHT foods this time.

What sugarfreemom resources have helped you?

The dessert recipes because I am going to be honest, I will never give up my sweets completely. The tribe has been extremely helpful and inspiring for sure.

What does a typical day of eating look like now for you?

I used to have 3 meals, 2 snacks and a dessert. Now I have 3 meals and no dessert MOST days.

Some days (around my period), I find myself unreasonable hungry so I will have a Zevia or pork rinds (I hate them) if I am hungry enough and that has been working/helping. I will also, brush my teeth or chew some Pur cinnamon gum to chase the urge away.

Do you exercise?

My weekly exercise is: 30 minutes on the treadmill at 3.4, and 1.5 elevation, and a 16 pound weighted vest. 3-4 “toning”: one leg day, one arm day, and my Ab and butt day rotate. Nothing drastic or intense. This is something I do not mind doing and only don’t do if I am very sick.

What have you learned from your journey?

It is possible if you are educated by someone who knows what they are talking about.

Final thoughts or takeaways you want to share.

You gave me the tools I needed to help me fit those puzzle pieces together.

I am a very simple person. I have found a combination that works for me, and I enjoy, and I have pretty much eaten the same thing for breakfast, lunch, and supper since August 4^th.

I have stuck with this as it works. I am satisfied 90% of the time (the weeks of my period are rough, always have been), and my meal prep is under an hour and this all works for me 1,000%.

If not, I would have failed by now like I did with ALL my other efforts.

If you want it bad enough, you CAN do it, and it is worth it.

Learn more about the Midlife Macros™ Method Here as well as the Midlife Macros™ Meal Plans.

The post Marcy’s Weight Loss Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

Perimenopause Weight Gain

I’ve never been more excited—or more vulnerable—sharing something I created from such a personal place of struggle. 2024 was a difficult year for me, despite doing everything “right”—eating keto, strength training, intermittent fasting—the weight kept creeping on. 

I felt like my body had betrayed me, and nothing made sense anymore. I know I’m not alone in this. You keep thinking, “Why is the weight coming on even though I’ve changed nothing?” And then you continue to do the things that worked for you in the past but nothing works to budge the extra pounds. 

That deep frustration, that sense of defeat, is exactly what led me to create the Midlife Macros Method™. It’s the gentle but powerful shift my body needed—and it changed everything.

During my two-month macro shift, I adopted a higher‑protein, moderate‑fat template—and dropped 14 lbs—with minimal muscle loss.

In midlife, this combination is especially powerful. Protein intakes above ~1.2 g per kilogram of body weight protect lean mass even while in a calorie deficit, aid satiety, and elevate metabolism. Meanwhile, moderate healthy fats help you stay nourished and satisfied without overloading carbs.

Peer‑reviewed studies support this approach: in trials with midlife to older women, those consuming ~1.2–1.5 g/kg protein lost the same amount of fat—but preserved up to twice as much muscle—as those on ~0.8 g/kg diets.

And it’s not just about body composition. Higher protein intake through midlife is linked to better resilience, less frailty, and greater odds of “healthy aging”.

If you’ve felt stuck, discouraged, or like your body just isn’t responding anymore, this is for you.

Classic Keto vs. My Midlife Macro Method: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve followed a classic keto approach before, you’ve probably heard the standard macronutrient breakdown: 70–75% fat, 20–25% protein, and 5–10% carbs.

This high-fat, very low-carb strategy was originally designed for therapeutic purposes, like managing epilepsy. And while many have seen success with it for weight loss, especially in the early phases, I’ve found that it doesn’t always work long-term—especially for women in midlife. 

In my own experience I adopted the classic keto diet in 2015 after I had been on low-carb diets for many years.  

A low carb diet helped me greatly with maintaining a healthy weight. Then a keto diet helped me greatly in 2015 when I chose to eat a high-fat diet since I was experiencing undiagnosed hypothyroid symptoms that didn’t get diagnosed until 2019. But for 4 years that very low carb intake and very high fat intake, provided amazing health benefits! 

In fact, I wrote all about in this extensive blog post and my 6 week results during that time. I ate about 20 grams of carbs per day, over 100 grams of fat per day and a moderate about of protein as the information I had read back then discouraged too much protein.

I knew that dietary fat should be a limit not a goal and wrote all about that in 2021 in this blog post, How Much Fat Should you be eating on a Keto Diet, but I had no idea how much this would be so true for me in 2024.

10 years ago I was 43 so the standard keto diet really worked for me until it didn’t once I hit the age of 52, I started putting on a few pounds each month and hadn’t changed anything in my diet or my strength training routine.

I was still eating about 20 grams of carbohydrates, moderate protein and now that I’ve looked back on it, too much fat. Realizing that what worked for me over these last 8 years just wasn’t going to work with my changing hormones in my 50’s. 

That’s why I created the Midlife Macro Method—a more strategic, sustainable version of keto designed specifically for the unique hormonal shifts and metabolic changes that happen during perimenopause and menopause.

Here’s how they differ:

• Fat intake is lower on deficit days. Instead of eating high fat every day, the Midlife Macro Method keeps fat between 50–70g for six days, which encourages your body to burn stored fat. One day a week, you intentionally increase fat (up to 70–100g) to support hormone health and keep your metabolism responsive.
• Protein is prioritized. Midlife women need more protein to preserve muscle mass, support metabolism, and reduce cravings. Unlike classic keto, which often under-emphasizes protein, my method makes it the nutritional anchor of every meal.
• Carbohydrate intake is still moderately low, but strategic. You’ll still stay in the 20–40g carb range to support blood sugar balance and fat loss, but there’s no obsession with being in ketosis 24/7. On maintenance days the carbs go even a little higher. This is about metabolic flexibility, not rigid rules.
• Calorie awareness matters. Instead of eating fat to fullness like classic keto often promotes, this method includes an intentional calorie deficit six days a week, with one maintenance day built in to prevent metabolic slowdown and support long-term fat loss.
• It’s built for the realities of midlife. With hormone fluctuations, increased stress, and changing body composition, midlife women need more than a cookie-cutter keto diet. This approach supports fat loss, hormone balance, and metabolic health—without relying on extreme restriction.

Why This Matters for Midlife Women

As we get older, our bodies become more sensitive to stress and insulin. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, muscle mass starts to decline, and we may find ourselves gaining weight even when our habits haven’t changed.

The classic high-fat keto plan often backfires here—stalling weight loss or even causing weight gain, especially if we’re not paying attention to calories or protein.

The Midlife Macro Method shifts the focus:

• Less dietary fat, but NOT low fat, so your body taps into stored body fat more effectively, but not so low fat that you’re starving and then inevitably days following consuming more.
• More protein, which helps build and preserve lean muscle, supports metabolism, and keeps cravings in check.
• A structured weekly rhythm, including a maintenance day, to support metabolism and long-term fat loss without burnout.

The Midlife Macro Method is about balance, strategy, and sustainability. It honors the way your body works now—not how it worked in your 20s. If classic keto has stalled out or left you frustrated, this approach may be exactly the shift you need.

This method is rooted in clinical nutrition, real-life experience with my clients, and my own midlife journey. It’s not just about weight loss—it’s about energy, resilience, and showing up fully in this powerful season of life. 

Many women unknowingly eat too little protein when trying to lose weight, which can lead to muscle loss and a slowed metabolism.

Clinical research shows that eating higher protein (~1.2–1.6 g/kg of body weight) during a calorie deficit preserves significantly more muscle than standard protein intakes (~0.8 g/kg), especially in midlife and older adults.

For example, in one study, postmenopausal women who consumed 1.2 g/kg of protein lost the same amount of weight as those eating 0.8 g/kg—but retained twice as much muscle.

This matters because muscle is metabolically active tissue. Losing it during weight loss makes long-term maintenance harder and increases the risk of weight regain. A high-protein approach improves body composition by increasing the percentage of fat lost versus muscle.

It also supports greater resting energy expenditure (the calories you burn at rest), improves strength and function, and helps maintain a healthy metabolic rate—all of which are crucial for sustainable fat loss in midlife.

• Protein needs increase in midlife due to age-related muscle loss and anabolic resistance.
• Eating 1.2–1.6 g/kg/day of protein helps preserve lean body mass during weight loss.
• Protein is the most satiating macronutrient, reducing hunger and cravings.
• Moderate healthy fats (not low fat!) help regulate hormones and blood sugar.
• This macro balance supports stable energy, better sleep, and more consistent fat loss in perimenopause and beyond.

For me, at 53 and 132 pounds, my target grams of protein would be 72 grams, but often I eat even more than that on a daily basis.

My high protein diet is more like 100 or more grams of protein per day and my body is thriving, my insulin levels are balanced, my brain function is incredible and my thyroid health conditions have also improved with this approach!

Hormonal Balance  

During perimenopause, fluctuating hormone levels can significantly impact weight and overall health.

Understanding how hormonal changes affect the body can empower women to make informed choices for managing their well-being. Maintaining hormonal balance is crucial for achieving weight loss and enhancing quality of life.  

Most Important Things You Should Know  

Role of Estrogen: Estrogen depletion affects fat distribution, leading to increased belly fat storage around the abdomen. Strengthening muscles and maintaining a healthy diet can help counteract these effects. 

Hormonal therapy options should also be discussed with healthcare providers for personalized recommendations.

Impact of Cortisol: Elevated cortisol from stress can hinder weight loss and promote cravings for high-calorie foods. Employing stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or breathing exercises can help lower cortisol levels. 

A consistent practice to manage stress can even aid in achieving fitness goals. This is a topic covered often inside the sugarfreemom tribe community. My weekly live coaching calls are full of ways to regulate your nervous system to support stress management. 

Thyroid Function: A well-functioning thyroid regulates metabolism and energy levels; dysfunction may contribute to weight gain. Regular check-ups and monitoring thyroid hormones with your healthcare provider can help identify issues early.

I also had to make changes to my own medication for hypothyroid because it just wasn’t working anymore. Addressing thyroid health with the right interventions supports effective metabolism.

Importance of Progesterone: Adequate progesterone levels contribute to sleep quality and mood stability. Explore natural methods to foster progesterone balance through lifestyle factors such as maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stress. 

Diet’s Impact on Hormones: Food choices significantly influence hormonal balance, where nutrient-dense foods can aid in stabilizing hormones. Focus on consuming a variety of whole foods rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

Why Animal Protein May Be Superior

When it comes to meeting protein needs in midlife, animal protein sources are often more effective than plant-based proteins—especially for preserving muscle while losing fat.

Animal proteins like eggs, poultry, fish, beef, and dairy are naturally complete proteins, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids in the right ratios to support muscle protein synthesis. 

They’re also rich in leucine, a key amino acid that triggers muscle building, which is especially important as we age and our bodies become less responsive to protein intake (a phenomenon called anabolic resistance).

Animal proteins are also more bioavailable and easier to digest, meaning your body can absorb and use them more efficiently than most plant proteins. 

While plant-based proteins can work with careful planning and combining, animal proteins provide a more powerful, convenient, and nutrient-dense foundation—making them my personal go-to for my Midlife Macro Method and the results I’ve achieved with it.

Why High‑Protein + Moderate‑Fat Works in Midlife Weight Loss

In midlife, a higher-protein, moderate-fat approach becomes especially effective for fat loss and body composition. As we age, our bodies naturally lose muscle and become less efficient at synthesizing new muscle tissue—a condition called anabolic resistance. 

Higher protein intake (at least 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight) helps overcome this by stimulating muscle protein synthesis, preserving lean mass, and supporting a healthy metabolism.

In addition, protein is the most satiating macronutrient, which helps regulate appetite and reduce cravings—particularly important during hormonal fluctuations common in perimenopause and menopause.

While high protein is essential for preserving muscle and promoting fat loss in midlife, moderate fat intake plays a crucial role in supporting hormonal balance, satiety, and nutrient absorption. 

As estrogen declines during perimenopause and menopause, women often experience disruptions in insulin sensitivity, mood, and appetite regulation. Including moderate amounts of healthy fats—such as olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish—can help stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and support the production of key hormones like progesterone and estrogen.

Unlike low-fat diets that often leave women hungry and hormonally depleted, a moderate-fat approach provides steady energy and helps curb cravings. When combined with a high-protein foundation, this balance keeps you satisfied, nourished, and metabolically supported—making sustainable fat loss more achievable in midlife.

For women in midlife, this strategy supports not just fat loss, but also strength, stamina, and overall wellness. My next book coming out in the fall, Good Better Best has meal plans that are tailored for the MMM™ with moderate fat, higher protein, freezer meals and batch cooking made easy!

Targeted Supplements to Support Midlife  

Targeted supplementation can complement dietary efforts by filling micronutrient gaps, supporting metabolic function, and optimizing recovery processes specific to midlife physiology when carefully selected and integrated.  

Natural supplements can play a role in supporting health during perimenopause. Understanding which supplements are effective and safe empowers informed decisions about supplement use.  

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Support Inflammation Control: Omega-3 supplements can support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation while also offering benefits for mood stabilization. Incorporate fatty fish in your diet and use high-quality fish oil supplements to achieve the desired intake. This dual benefit supports overall well-being and enhances the weight loss journey.

Magnesium Supports Energy Metabolism and Sleep Quality: Magnesium contributes to muscle function, mood regulation, and hormonal health, making it an essential mineral for women during perimenopause. I use Relax & Regulate nightly!

Vitamin D for Bone Health and Is Often Deficient During Midlife: Adequate vitamin D levels are critical for bone health, especially as bone density often diminishes during hormonal changes. Ensure sufficient intake through lifestyle changes, such as sun exposure and diet, alongside evaluating supplementation if needed. I use this Vitamin D with K2.

Probiotics for Gut Health: Probiotics can help maintain gut health and support immune function, which may be impacted during perimenopause. Regularly consuming probiotic-rich foods or supplements promotes a balanced gut flora, aiding digestion and enhancing nutrient absorption.

Protein Supplements Facilitate Adequate Intake: Grass Fed Whey can efficiently boost protein without excessive calories or preparation time.

The MMM™ Growth Hacks  

1. Prioritize Lean Animal Proteins: Include options like chicken, turkey, fish, and lean beef for nutrient density and digestibility.
2. Include Protein at Every Meal: Distribute intake evenly to maintain anabolism and reduce catabolism during intermittent fasting periods.
3. Incorporate Protein Supplements: Use whey and collagen to conveniently meet daily targets, especially post-exercise.
4. Monitor Protein Timing: Aim for 30-60 grams spaced across 2-3 meals for effective muscle protein synthesis stimulation.
5. Maintain Hydration: Adequate water intake is critical to support metabolism and kidney function with increased protein consumption. I also use electrolytes.
6. Incorporate Fatty Fish: Include salmon, mackerel, and sardines twice weekly to boost omega-3 intake and anti-inflammatory support.
7. Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, it improves lipid profiles and flavor enhancement.
8. Snack on Nuts and Seeds: Provide nutrient dense, satiating fat sources helpful in controlling appetite.
9. Include Avocados: Their unique fat profile and fiber increase satiety and nutrient absorption.
10. Limit Processed Foods High in Unhealthy Fats: Minimize fast food, baked goods, and packaged snacks that contain trans fats and excess omega-6 fatty acids.

Consistency and Community 

When it comes to weight loss in midlife, consistency and community are everything. The truth is, we don’t just need a plan — we need people.

Having like-minded women around you who understand your goals and support your journey makes all the difference in creating habits that actually stick, especially during perimenopause and menopause.

Support Makes the Journey Easier

Whether it’s family, friends, or a community like this one, support helps you stay accountable, motivated, and connected. You don’t have to do this alone. Sharing your journey with others brings encouragement, accountability, and a whole lot more joy.

That’s exactly why I created the SugarFreeMom Tribe Community. Yes, I share recipes, but this space is about so much more. I’m also a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, keto coach, sugar detox expert, course creator, author, and life coach.

I offer weekly live coaching calls where we dive into mindset, habits, lifestyle strategies, emotional eating, monthly challenges, and more — because this work goes far beyond what’s on your plate. You can learn more here about my course, MMM and Midlife Macro Meal Plans.

Midlife Macros Method™ (MMM™). 

Research References

The Importance of Nutrition in Menopause and Perimenopause— A Review

Nutrition in Menopausal Women: A Narrative Review

Essential Vitamins and Supplements to Balance Hormones

An Anti-Inflammatory Diet and Its Potential Benefit for Individuals with Mental Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases—A Narrative Review

Protein Intake and Energy Expenditure During Weight Loss Maintenance. PMID: 23446962

Whey Protein Preserves Muscle Mass in Postmenopausal Women During Weight Loss. PMID: 29687650

Protein Intake in Older Adults to Optimize Health Outcomes. PMCID: PMC6521917

Meta-Analysis: High-Protein Diets and Body Composition. PMCID: PMC7539343

High-Protein Diet Counters Adaptive Thermogenesis After Weight Loss. PMID: 31754687

Review by Functional Registered Dietician, Ali Miller, RD.

The post The Midlife Macro Method™: How I Lost 14 Pounds Naturally appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

Can you start by telling us a little bit about yourself—where you’re from, what brought you to the tribe, and what your life looked like before this journey began?

My Name is Jennie Walker I am 53 years old. I live in Michigan with my husband Matt of 33 years. I have two boys. Trent is 30 and Brendan is 26. I also have two miniature Schnauzers, Monty and Lewy.

My journey into my sugar free world started on March 11, 2024.

The November before I did an Amazon order for Christmas and I remember looking at the 30- Day Sugar Elimination Book but did not realize I put it in my cart. So, when I received my order the book came with it. I did think about returning but instead I started reading it.

Then on March 9, 2024, I asked my husband if he wanted to try this Sugar Free diet with me and use this cool book that tells us what to eat and why we are eating it. He agreed and we started on March 11, 2024.

After 30 days and completing the book, we really knew what to do to continue. I was down 17 pounds, and he was down 21.

Being a former Weight Watcher customer and leader I was petrified to not have support.

Once I got to the back of the book and learned Brenda had a Tribe I immediately went and
talked to my doctor. She did not care what I was doing, just glad I was doing it and wrote me a letter to provide to my HSA so that they would cover the cost of being in the Tribe.

I have been a member since and I am officially in Maintenance. I Started at 196 and got to my goal of 148.

My Husband Matt started at 297 and now weighs 213. I can say that this is a lifetime change for us we will never go back. Read more here on their personal weight loss.

How many times have you attempted weight loss in the past, and what would you say made those attempts fall short in terms of maintenance?

It really has been on and off again my whole life. I have exercised I mean really alot of exercise for years. Exercise always dictated how and what I could eat. I have always been part of Weight Watchers.

I was a Lifetime member and a Leader at one point. The reason why I could not hold onto my weight loss is because Weight Watchers never explained why they did what they did.

You just followed it and hoped for the best. Brenda explained the science behind why it works and how it works in her books.  This gave me more faith in believing what I was doing this time
around would really work.

What was your biggest fear about maintenance before joining the SFM Tribe?

My biggest fear is that I would lose it!!!!! It is so easy to happen. You do not get the excitement about losing weight any longer.

Bad habits are easy to fall back into because you are where you should be and you know it won’t hurt you. I am just so afraid that will happen.

I just do not want to wake up every day ever again and not have the feeling I have when I am putting what serves me best into my body.

What shifted for you in this program that helped you finally maintain instead of starting over again?

On the day that I could go into my closet and pick things out that I had not worn in years (THEY FIT). The energy I had every day.

The sleep good god I sleep so goooooood! The thing is we realized that we really enjoyed eating like this and how it made me feel. I have never been on any other diet where I felt as good as I did.

How did the tribe support your mindset and habits during the transition from weight loss to maintenance?

The best part of the Tribe is that you have access to so many people that are going through the same thing you are.

The Facebook page, the separate chats in messenger and the meetings we have every week really provide support. The biggest thing are the challenges that Brenda does every month.

This helps me stay in check and reminds me what I must do to stay in Maintenance. It makes me accountable to myself. When people in our group tell me how good I am doing I cannot let them down.

Were there specific tools, routines, or mindset shifts that made the biggest difference for you during maintenance?

I use the Carb Manager and Eato App to track my food calories and macros. I can tell you my 30-day Sugar Elimination book has been loved a lot. I use it almost every day.

I had to replace the routines that did not work for me. Every day when I would come home from work I go into the pantry, grab a bag of chips and eat the whole bag.

Now when I come home from work I immediately walk out to my garden or water my flowers. I find some activity until dinner time then I make a dinner that will serve me and not harm me.

I never thought about what I was putting into my body. Once I understood what was in processed food and how I felt when I did not eat it any longer is when I knew I could do this.

People say it’s impossible to take sugar, gluten and processed food out of your diet, but we did it and if you know how that makes you feel there is no going back to it.

Was there a moment you realized, “I’m actually maintaining!”? What did that feel like?

I remember when I did the first monthly challenge after I hit my goal, and I stayed the same or lost 1 pound that is when I knew I was Maintaining.

How do you define success now, compared to when you were focused solely on losing weight?

When you go and get your blood work done and your doctor tells you that you are the definition of good health.

I just had mine done and he told me that he does not very often have results where he does not see anything wrong and that everything was within a normal level. I never realized how excited that made me.

At 53 years old my doctor told me I am the definition of good health. What!!!!!!!!!!!

How do you handle fluctuations on the scale now versus before?

I am very used to going up a few pounds then going down a few pounds. Someone once told me that for people in maintenance this is normal.

So, I give myself grace with 5 pounds. I never stress if I go up or down 5 pounds. It really has become second hand for me now. I love it! The fact that Brenda also addresses and explains why you may stall or notice fluctuations was also very helpful.

What beliefs about food, your body, or weight have changed the most since maintaining?

Thanks to Brenda I have a full understanding of what Sugar Gluten and Processed food does to me because of that I have never felt so determined to keep the muck out of my body. I went from 196 to 148 because I keep it out of my body. I went from a size 16 to and 8 and I wear medium shirts.

Not to mention people tell me I glow, my skin looks so much healthier, and my hair has changed so much no more shedding. It is absolutely true what my grandma always told me you truly are what you eat!

How has your day-to-day life changed now that you are in maintenance?

It really has not changed at all. I was afraid to change anything. Change is very unsettling to me. I did not want slip back into old habits.

We still follow what the 30- day sugar elimination book taught us. We plan out what we eat every day to make sure what we eat serves us best. The best part is that my husband and I are accountable to each other.

I do not want to let him down and he does not want to let me down. I just think it helps your marriage as well it is a good thing to feel good in your own skin. It creates confidence.

What does you’re eating and movement routine look like now? Is it different than during weight loss?

My eating routine and movement have not changed. After a year in a half, we are still sugar free and I make sure I get movement every day, I do mix it up though I either run, do Zumba or ride my bike. Or simply go for a walk.

Every day my goal is to burn 500 calories. I also make sure I get 20 minutes of sunshine. Vitamin D does amazing things for me.

Are there foods or habits you have learned to include sustainably instead of feeling like you’re “on or off” something?

I have added fruits back into my diet. But I rarely go outside of what I normally do. If I do I make sure to check what it is doing to my blood sugar if it spikes it I know that is one thing I cannot add in.

Like Watermelon, I love it and I really think it has never made anyone fat but when I eat it, I feel terrible. You get that sugar high then you crash.

What was the most surprising challenge during maintenance, and how did you overcome it?

Dealing with not having the excitement of losing weight. You will find that other things like doctor reports goals you set for yourself is what makes you happy. And the biggest was getting through special occasions.

For me this hard because if you are in maintenance one day out of the month is not going to hurt you. So, I have been working on that for sure especially this summer with all the vacations. I have set a goal to not indulge during special occasions.

What do you do when you notice old habits trying to sneak back in?

I own it! We are not perfect! I just remind myself of how I feel when I stay on my plan and do better.

Old Habits are hard to stop good lord we all know that, but I make it my goal to not go back to them. It really helps that I do not bring anything that will tempt me into my house.

If you could go back and talk to your past self, the one who always regained the
weight—what would you say?

You are an idiot to keep trying these diets that do not work. I mean is it ok to eat thirty oreos and hit your twenty-three points and be done for the day Weight Watchers says its ok well no it is not.

I knew how taking sugar gluten and processed food out of my body did for me. If I could bottle that up and sell it, I would be rich. I just try to think about how I felt when I was so unhealthy and that is all I need.

What would you say to a tribe member who is afraid of maintenance or doubts that they can do it too?

I would say that they just need to stay in the lane they are in, and maintenance is not that hard.

I certainly thought it was, but you must just make it your lifestyle and to look at it like I have been doing this the whole time to get here why not just keep doing what got you there so you can stay there.

What is one thing that you think everyone needs to understand about maintenance that no one really talks about?

Yes, you will not have that excitement around losing weight any longer but so many other events will prove that being in maintenance is exciting.

That trip to the doctor every year is huge for me just to see the look on his face. The clothes you can wear. The way your husband looks at you. Trust me, it is wonderful.

Is there a personal mantra or belief that has helped you keep going, even when things felt hard?

This is for me, I want to be around for my family and the way my husband tells me I look, my goodness I can live off that.

What is next for you in this journey—goals, mindset, or otherwise?

My goal is to be the best I can be. I am so thankful that I found Brenda, Angie, and this Tribe. This is something I will never NOT be part of.

My goal is to make maintenance be just what I do and not something I struggle with, and I am winning at that for sure. I have found something that works and is sustainable.

Please help me congratulate Jennie on her Maintenance Success and becoming the New Maintenance Mentor Coach inside the Sugar Free Mom Tribe Community!

The post Jennie’s Maintenance Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

What is your age and where do you live?

I am 51 and I live in Clio, Michigan.

How did you find SugarFreeMomTribe.com and when did you join?

I have seen your post on Facebook and followed you for probably a good five years not realizing that you had so much more going on then one day I found your book on Amazon the 30 day Sugar Elimination Diet, and I bought that. I began my journey on March 1, 2024.

I lost 16 pounds with the book and bonus, my husband did it with me and lost 22 pounds!

Did you have any weight struggles before joining the course and membership?

I am 5 foot 10, 51 soon to be 52 years old and generally most of my young years I had a pretty good metabolism, but I had a hysterectomy when I was 38 and my ovaries removed when I was 48 the weight from menopause and hormone therapy really started piling on.

That’s when I knew I had to make a change because I really felt like Weight Watchers was not built to combat what I was going through.

What other weight loss programs had you tried and how successful were they to keep your weight off?

I for many years was a lifetime member with Weight Watchers.

I was also a leader, but for many years, I would hit that lifetime membership and hit my goal just to turn around to have the weight come back on.

I also tried Optavia, which was a huge fail against my better judgment, I did that for about six months, but learned that it was absolutely not sustainable to eat.

They’re very expensive products that did not taste well at all. 

How much weight did you lose and what other non scale victories have you had?

When I weighed in on June 8, this past Sunday morning, I hit the goal that I have always had with my other weight loss programs which was 165 pounds and on Sunday morning I weighed 163.8.

I literally sat on the floor and balled my eyes out because not only has this worked for me, but my husband has lost 47 pounds as well since March 1! We feel so incredibly good and have so much energy and sleep so very well.

Going to our closet every day is like having epiphany. it’s like what are we gonna get to wear today right down to the shoes that we haven’t warning years because guess where weight comes off to your feet.

The ability that I have learned how to do is to walk away when I am around food that I know I can’t eat, especially during work events. And my favorite victory is I feel good in my own skin.

What were you typically eating before making this lifestyle change?

If you could’ve only seen my cupboards before I started this program it would tell the whole story I mean, I really believe everything I put in my mouth up until March 1 had so much sugar in it.

I have removed all of that out of my house and on a daily basis, I have probably less than 20 g of carbs.

The difference is truly unbelievable. My kids come over and tell me mom you used to have the best pantry. 

What sugarfreemom resources have helped you?

The best resources from Sugar Free Mom that has helped me was the 30 day sugar elimination diet book, the 21 day meal plan and the sugar detox program that took six weeks which I have went through twice now.

The biggest one is the Sugar-Free Mom Tribe group. The meetings that we have every week and all the people in this group that are going through the same things that I am going through and are willing to share their thoughts and experiences have helped me so very much.

I also have purchased all of Brenda Bennett cookbooks which has been a huge help now that I am through all the meal plans because I use those to create my meals.

What does a typical day of eating look like now for you?

My typical day starts with my fast that starts at 6 PM the night before and ends at 10 AM the next day. I wake up usually around 5 AM and I do a workout during my fast and then get ready for my day.

My husband usually makes breakfast and he puts mine on a plate in the refrigerator so that I can have it at 10 AM or I bring it to work with me and eat it at 10 AM, this is all while I’m hydrating myself with water and don’t forget your electrolytes and collagen.

I usually have lunch around 12:30 that consists of a salad or whatever we had for dinner the night before. Then when I get home, I create a recipe either from my 30 day, sugar elimination diet book , or one of the cookbooks that I have purchased, but always keeping in mind to have a protein, a vegetable, and a fat. This is why logging this information into my Carb Manager app keeps my macros in check.

What have you learned from your journey?

I think the biggest thing that I’ve learned is how to truly take care of my body I never knew and all the years of fighting my weight that this was truly the best way to eat nutritious food because truly you are what you eat and I think you can truly see that in my pictures.

It is very important to me to have control over myself which after going through this journey, I truly know I never did. It is so amazing to know that I am not addicted to sugar anymore.

Final thoughts or takeaways you want to share.

I just really want to thank Brenda Bennett and her assistant Angie and all the tribe members because really without you guys I’m not sure that I could do this.

This is an amazing program. I feel like it’s my little secret and what is really cool, is people see this happening to me, and I tell them about your program and so far I have had four people at work by your 30 day sugar elimination diet book.

They are slowly going through that book just like I did so thank you! I love how you keep it simple and basically either you can do this or not. It’s up to you.

One last thought, when you feel good in your own skin, you’re a happier person! You can listen to Jennie’s interview here on this testimonial page.

Learn more about the Sugar Free Mom Tribe Membership!

Sugar Free Self Paced Courses

5 Day Sugar Detox Challenge Videos for each of the 5 days!

End Impulse Eating Just 3 short videos of content!

Sugar Free Fresh Start Course has 5 modules and takes 4-6 weeks to complete.

Stall Buster Course has 4 weeks of meal plans that provide a weekly quiz to determine how much fat intake you need to successfully lose weight.

The post Jennie’s Weight Loss Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

My story begins as a young child and being a “big” girl. I was allergic to many foods as a child and I believe that medication given to me at that time contributed to my weight issues. I was the only one in the family with weight issues at that time.

The extra weight stayed with me into adulthood. Some of the extra weight was eating due to depression. I felt comfort in the food at the time of eating, then remorse that I ate it.

In my late teens my mom and I went to a weight loss group. It did nothing for me. We were told that we needed to eat less.

I continued to try different weight loss plans, including Nutra System, low carb, low fat, keto (dirty). I tried different weight loss supplements and even bought the Oprah Keto Gummies. I didn’t end up taking them after looking at the testimonials. No way it would be healthy to lose that much weight, that fast, if it were true.

I had some success with the keto recipes that I tried before, then life happened and I gained the weight back. I only went up about 5 pounds more than I started at. We found the Sugar Free Mom and used several of your recipes.

In December 2023, I was on Facebook while home with COVID (lost 8 pounds) and saw that the 30 Day Sugar Elimination Diet book was available for pre-sale. I liked your recipes well enough that I ordered the book.

Later I saw the Facebook group and the start date of 1/2/23. I decided that I was all in.

Two adult sons, my husband and I were in the home at the time. I told my guys that I was only cooking one dinner each day. If they wanted to eat that dinner, they needed to notify me in advance so that I could cook enough.

One son wasn’t interested, nor was my husband. The younger son looked at all of the recipes and said that he was eating every day, but the shrimp days. He is 6’2”, wears a 28 waist pants.

He has no weight to lose but he was in. I think he really didn’t want to cook for himself after getting home at 6:45pm.

We had a tough start getting dinner before 7:30, I work until 6pm. Mid-week 2, the rhythm shifted and we were having dinner at about 6:45. Week 3 my son offered to cook dinner since he was off work. I took him up on it. Simple Skillet Chili was the dish.

His cooking has improved over the months and he continues to cook one or two days a week. He eats regular rice and pasta with his meal and I eat shirataki. I learned that the pasta sauce I was using fits into the plan, so does my meat and shirataki noodles. I was just eating too much.

The weight started coming off! The scale was no longer an enemy, nor was the full-length mirror in the restroom at work.

I tried intermittent fasting for 2 weeks and did not lose any weight. As soon as I started eating 3 meals, the loss resumed. I was not able to get enough protein in during the two meals.

Describe your experience in this area of your life now:

Informed choices. I could eat a donut if I wanted, but I don’t. It does not work with my goal to maintain my weight at this level.

How do you feel now about your weight, weight loss, food, food choices and your body?

I am so excited about the weight loss and food choices that I make now. The cookbook is on my counter so that we are reminded to keep going. My body needs some toning and I have started exercising. Bought a treadmill since I knew that I would not go to a gym.

What have you been able to achieve and experience?

With your help, I am down 50 pounds and am extremely satisfied with where my weight is. My goal was to reach 160. I was at 159.9 on 9/2/23. The weight did not stop going down until I reached 155 a couple weeks later.

My enjoyment in cooking returned. It is a lot of work to cook 3 meals a day, but it is so worth it. Portion control has been so much better since I know that a cup or 6 ounces is enough.

What have you been able to transform?

My mind. I had to answer your question, is it hunger or habit with “habit”. I always had keto snacks in my bag…and ate them. Now I know that if I get hungry and
don’t have food, I won’t starve.

What is one word that would describe this area of your life before?

Unsuccessful

What is one word that would describe this area of your life now?

Transformed

Favorite Recipes?

Fish Taco Bowl is #1 favorite. Cabbage Roll Skillet, Chili, Stuffed Peppers, Buffalo Wings without buffalo sauce, and Garlic Steak Bites are in the top ten. Really, I could fix these rotating through and be happy for a while.

What would you say to a woman who’s been extremely frustrated, struggling with her weight and considering but hesitant about signing up for the Tribe membership?

This is an investment in yourself. Subscribe for 3 months and give it your all, the food, the Facebook group, encouraging others.

If this plan isn’t for you, you haven’t spent any more money than another plan and you still have a great cookbook. You can listen to Beth’s live interview here.

Brenda Bennett is a certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, certified Sugar Detox Coach, certified Keto Coach and certified Life Coach. She has been Sugar Free & Refined carb free for 17 years and has written 2 cookbooks, Sugar-Free Mom, and Naturally Keto and her 3rd book The 30-Day Sugar Elimination Diet,  is a four part program to help you detox from sugar, eliminate cravings, balance blood sugar and lose weight all while eating a delicious, nutrient dense whole foods. Meal plan offers two tracks to follow, low carb or keto. She is the founder of the Sugar Free Fresh Start course and Sugar Free Tribe weight loss membership.

The post Beth’s Weight Loss Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

WHAT IS YOUR AGE AND WHERE DO YOU LIVE?

 I’ll be 66 in Dec. and I live about 80 miles south west of Minneapolis MN. 

HOW DID YOU FIND SUGARFREEMOMTRIBE.COM AND WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO JOIN THE SUGAR DETOX COURSE? 

I found Sugar Free Mom on Facebook and followed for oh probably 2 years or so. I joined the Tribe in April 2023 and started the 6 week detox course at that time, now called the Sugar Free Fresh Start course. 

DID YOU HAVE ANY HEALTH OR WEIGHT STRUGGLES BEFORE JOINING THE COURSE AND MEMBERSHIP?

 I knew my blood sugars were kinda high, like boarder line diabetic. My weight had climbed over the past 5 years. Probably can blame covid. Sugar is my biggest problem.

I have been yo-yo dieting for years. Started to have weight problems after being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism about 38 years ago.

WHAT OTHER PROGRAMS HAVE YOU TRIED BEFORE JOINING THE SUGAR DETOX PROGRAM?

I’ve done weight watchers more than once. The gym I go to helps some with diet. They tell you to not eat processed food or sugar at least 80% of the time.

But they don’t do as much as Brenda as far as explaining why we cave and eat what we shouldn’t. They don’t tell you to limit carbs either. Just processed carbs.

HOW MUCH WEIGHT DID YOU LOSE AND WHAT OTHER NON SCALE VICTORIES HAVE YOU HAD?

I’ve lost 37.4 pounds since April. I’m winning because when not eating sugar and carbs I really don’t have cravings.

The true test for this is going to be over winter when I’m cooped up in the house. I’m going to have to keep busy. I feel really good about how I look now. I can move around better. 

WHAT WERE YOU TYPICALLY EATING BEFORE MAKING THIS LIFESTYLE CHANGE?

I was back at eating what ever I wanted since covid. I just kept thinking I can’t loose all the weight again and figured I’ll just be obese the rest of my life. I did keep using good oils for the most part since probably 2014 ( that’s a guess). 

WHAT SUGARFREEMOM RECIPES OR RESOURCES HAVE HELPED YOU?

All the videos on the tribe website are really helpful. I don’t feel like I’m missing anything since I can make sugar free desserts. I like lots of Brenda’s recipes. 

Watch the Free Masterclass on 3 Key Strategies for the Holidays!

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY OF EATING LOOK LIKE NOW FOR YOU?

Now I keep “ a protein and a veggie” in the back of my mind. And getting my water in which I need to concentrate more on since water is a struggle.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM YOUR JOURNEY?

 I’ve learned why I was looking for food when I wasn’t even hungry. I’ve learned why I give in to sugary treats. And I’m so glad I don’t have as many cravings to deal with. Sometimes I even think I’m ok with being a little hungry. 

FINAL THOUGHTS OR TAKEAWAYS? 

 I would tell anyone on the fence to just join. I’m so glad I did. Brenda is so down to earth. What she tells you to do is not complicated. And you get so so much accountability with her program.

 I want to thank you for your hard work of helping me understand this whole diet, craving, Etc. I have learned so much from you. You are a great teacher.

Learn More about the Sugar Free Mom Tribe Membership

The post Kay’s Weight Loss Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

Describe your experience in your efforts for weight loss before joining my program.

I’ve been heavy since high school. Always a chunky girl. Two years ago I started with Isagenix and lost about 60 pounds. I then hit a plateau and no matter what I did, could not get the scale to move.

I gained some weight back trying to figure out maintenance because that program was 2 shakes a day and I didn’t learn how to introduce real food back into my diet.

I then stumbled upon Ideal protein. I was successful and hit my goal weight 3 times but didn’t have much support. Gained weight back each time I tried to introduce foods back.

Your program is different for many reasons. There is so much support in the Tribe.

You are so personable with lots of experience and advice, the worksheets and coaching are easy to follow, the countless recordings you can reference at anytime and changing how you think is huge.

The amount of knowledge I’ve gained with reading labels and the hidden sugars has helped me with my weight loss. I don’t feel like I’m alone to figure it all out.

The quick response to any questions is huge for me.

In the past I old reach out to my coach and sometimes waited days to here back from her. 

Maintenance has been my downfall. I think trying to live life and adding foods back into my lifestyle and not falling back to old habits is my issue. Also changing the way I think and really working on that.

I’m determined to conquer maintenance and sustain this lifestyle.

Brenda your recipes are absolutely amazing. I can’t even count how many times I called you a genius. Who knew sugar free could taste even better than the processed crap.

What program did you start with and why?

I stumbled upon SugarFreeMom recipes and then bought your 30 Day Sugar Elimination diet book.

My hubby and I did the 30 day program together. Taking sugar out of my diet was a game changer.

I started the 30 day in March 2023 then continued with your 6 week Sugar Detox Course (Now newly updated to the New Sugar Free Fresh Start Course) and then joined the Tribe for the support membership.

What have you been able to achieve and experience?

With all the programs I’ve lost 107 pounds. But this time, now losing the last 25 pounds with your program, I don’t feel like I’m alone in maintenance.

The support meetings and that you respond to emails right away has been key for me.

The accountability group that I’m in, all the girls are great and supportive and with the FB posts, there’s so much support.

What have you been able to transform?

It’s not a diet for me anymore, it’s a lifestyle. You are real, just like us and I can relate to lot of the things you say.

I’m really concerned about maintenance and want to do it right this time and stop the yo yo dieting.

I feel that with everything I have, I will be able to do it now and maintain my weight loss because I will have the support and guidance I need so I can continue this lifestyle going forward.

What have been some surprising bonuses that you weren’t expecting?

I never thought I’d be an intermittent faster and I do an 18 hour fast now and it’s been a game changer and it helped me lose that last 5 pounds.

What would you say to a woman who’s been extremely frustrated, struggling with her weight and considering but hesitant about signing up for the Tribe membership?

I’m happy with my weight loss and how I look in my clothes. I never want to be the women I was a few years ago being over weight.

I would tell any women struggling to try this program it works. The tribe is so supportive. Listening to others experiences and advice is worth the membership fee.

Learn More about the Sugar Free Tribe Membership Here.

The post Keri’s Weight Loss Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

WHAT IS YOUR AGE AND WHERE DO YOU LIVE?

I was 56 when I started my journey with SugarfreeMom and I live in Pennsylvania. 

HOW DID YOU FIND SUGARFREEMOMTRIBE.COM AND WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO JOIN THE SUGAR DETOX COURSE? 

I was scrolling through FB and saw SugarfreeMom’s FB page announcing her 5 day sugar free challenge.  I thought I could do 5 days of no sugar! 

After I completed the 5 days, I decided to continue my journey and join the 6 week course which started in March of 2022. 

DID YOU HAVE ANY HEALTH OR WEIGHT STRUGGLES BEFORE JOINING THE COURSE AND MEMBERSHIP?

Yes, I’ve struggled with my weight my entire life.  I’ve tried every diet since I was in high school and always lost and then gained it back each time. 

But now in my 50’s it was getting harder to lose weight each time I tried a new diet again.  I’m an over-eater and have always indulged eating sweet treats & bread.  

WHAT OTHER PROGRAMS HAVE YOU TRIED BEFORE JOINING THE SUGAR DETOX PROGRAM?

Weight watchers and many trendy diets that have popped up over the years. 

HOW MUCH WEIGHT DID YOU LOSE AND WHAT OTHER NON SCALE VICTORIES HAVE YOU HAD?

Since March 2022, I’ve lost 70 lbs and for the first time as an adult I’m able to wear size 10 pants and medium shirts.

I haven’t been able to fit in a size 10 since I was in Junior High. 

My sleep has improved, no daily pain in my knees and I’m finally able to control my emotional eating that I’ve done my entire life.  I finally like looking at myself in the mirror and shopping to buy clothing. 

And I can now shop in any store instead of searching for plus size stores that in the past were hard to find. 

WHAT WERE YOU TYPICALLY EATING BEFORE MAKING THIS LIFESTYLE CHANGE?

Anything and everything and lots of it.  I ate throughout the entire day every couple of hours.  I was always snacking and had no control over my daily food intake. 

I enjoyed bread, sweets and pasta and ate it on a daily basis. 

WHAT SUGARFREEMOM RECIPES OR RESOURCES HAVE HELPED YOU?

SugarfreeMom’s Naturally Keto and 30 Day Sugar Elimination Diet are my favorite books now and I always go back to them when I need a refresher course or good recipe. 

I also utilize the website for any additional recipes that I’m looking for throughout the year.  SugarFree Mom Tribe Membership has been the best support system. 

I’ve met so many wonderful people who were dealing with the same issues that I was living with every day. 

I couldn’t do it without my Sugar-free Sista’s support group, they ROCK and I’m so glad I met them through this program. 

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY OF EATING LOOK LIKE NOW FOR YOU?

I eat two meals a day between 11 AM and 6/6:30 PM that always consist of protein and veggies.

I no longer snack throughout the day and honestly don’t need snacks anymore. 

Mornings are my black coffee and water.  I add Vital Proteins to my last cup of coffee around 10-11AM.  I eat lunch anytime between 10 – 1 PM, depending on my schedule and most days finish dinner by 6-6:30pm. 

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM YOUR JOURNEY?

I’ve learned that I was addicted to sugar and that I no longer need it in my life.  I’ve learned that I was an emotional eater but now I’ve been given the tools to use so I don’t eat when I’m upset, angry, sad or even happy. 

I now only eat when I’m hungry and have learned to choose healthy foods that are delicious.  I don’t feel cheated or robbed if I don’t eat something with sugar in it. 

I no longer need sugar to be happy or feel satisfied. 

My perspective on food has completely changed, so I’m no longer afraid to go back to my bad habits. I finally feel like I have control over my life and my food choices. 

FINAL THOUGHTS OR TAKEAWAYS? 

I’m so very thankful that I gave this program a chance, it has completely transformed the way I look at myself and food.

I never thought I would EVER be sugar free so this in itself amazes me.  But I am more fulfilled today than I’ve ever been in the past. 

I’m so happy that I took a chance on the 5 day challenge and then the Sugar Free course.  It has changed everything for me. Thank you Brenda!! 

You can listen to Theresa’s live interview here.

The post Theresa’s Weight Loss Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

Angie says,

I had reached my limit. I knew I needed to do something about losing weight.

This is why I went into the program initially to los weight also with the goal of knowing that in my family, we have Alzheimer’s and Dementia and sugar feeds so many illnesses. So that was another reason why I wanted to get off sugar.

I just signed up for her 6 week course. I had been following some of her recipes and meal plans, she also has her free recipes on her blog, that have amazing, amazing recipes and her books.

I absolutely love it. I’ve stuck with it. I’ve made this a lifestyle change.

I went from 232 pounds when I started, back in the fall of 2020, and I reached my goal which was 175, and now I am currently 170.

But I am telling you, I have found so much freedom and I still have to battle cravings periodically, but if I do get cravings I know why. I’ve learned so much more than just to know what to eat.

I’ve learned why I’ve eaten what I eat and why I got into those bad habits. There’s such a great mind, health component to this that I love.

What is you age and where do you live?

I’m 47, and from Iowa.

How did you find sugarfreemomtribe.com and when did you decide to join the 6 week Sugar Detox course?

I found SFM first on a weekly FB Live.  I tried her free recipes from her blog and did her Meal Plan for a few months.  I finally did what I should have done in the first place, I started the 6-week Course With Support.

Did you have any health or weight struggles before joining the course and membership?

I remember back to gradeschool having issues with overindulging in food and carrying around extra weight. 

I’ve tried many different methods to lose weight and keep it off, but nothing has stuck, until I found Brenda Bennett’s Detox Course with Support program.

What other programs have you tried before joining the sugar detox program?

Atkins, Weight Watchers, Ideal Protein, South Beach.

How much weight did you lose and what other non scale victories have you had?

Since the fall of 2020 I have lost 60+ pounds and kept it off. I’ve obtained my weight goal, even went under it somewhat, and am working now on seeing what weight my body wants to settle on its “best-fit-for-me weight” as I like to call it.

Other non-scale victories: fit into favorite jeans, decreased body fat, better sleep, improved emotional relationship with food, tools to navigate food choices during traveling and at gatherings, improved self-esteem and self-image, increased confidence.

What were you typically eating before making this lifestyle change?

three fairly balanced meals a day with protein veggies and fruit, BUT I overindulged in sweets, alcohol, chips, breads and the starchy veggies. 

What SugarFreemom recipes or resources have helped you?

MOST valuable to me has been the support aspect of SFM’s offerings: Brenda’s live coaching and the SFM community (FB and in the live meetings) have made all the difference. 

The 6-week course with support taught me how to make meal plans that fit into what I wanted to do that week (low-carb or keto or a modified version of those classic models). 

All of the tools that Brenda has in her 6-week course were essential in me being able to establish the lifestyle habits I needed to make lasting change, and her support opportunities gave me the momentum and accountability I needed to keep going. 

What does a typical day of eating look like now for you?

Most mornings: black coffee and water until around 9:30am, followed by decaf coffee + cream + collagen peptides.  12:30/1pm (or whenever I’m hungry) I’ll have a light lunch with about 6oz protein, 4-6 oz veggie. 

Evening meal I try to have finished by 6pm that includes 6-8oz protein 4oz veggie. If I do feel any hunger between meals I often grab a tea. 

Once every 1-2 weeks I’ll do a 24-36hr liquid fast where I have black coffee, water with electrolytes, water + lemon, tea, and possibly bone broth.

What have you learned from your journey?

I’ve learned that a menu free of refined sugar and carbohydrates is delicious, liberating, and most certainly sustainable as a lifestyle. 

I’ve learned that undoing years of former eating habits in order to establish new sustainable healthier habits is a journey, not a race. 

Most of all, to give myself grace, realizing that what I formerly thought of as a failure is really a learning experience.

Final thoughts or takeaways? 

This program has changed my life! You can listen to Angie’s live interview here.

50% OFF 6 week Sugar Detox Course with Support

If you’ve purchased my book, The 30-Day Sugar Elimination Diet,then you already have the link to the 50% off for the live course!

It’s my way of thanking you for purchasing my new book as well as for you to see what live coaching and support looks like to help you achieve your health goals!

Go to page 281 titled, What’s Next, and you will find that special link to use to get 50% off!

The post Angie’s Weight Loss Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

In December of 2021, I was emotionally drained and at my highest weight, excluding pregnancy.

I knew that after the holiday season I was going to start the New Year off on a different foot, but was struggling to decide what to do exactly.

Ever since I graduated from college, I have struggled with my weight. I’ve done every program you can think of …Weight Watchers, LA weight loss, the fast metabolism diet, shakes, bars, trainers…the one thing that made me feel the best mentally and emotionally was low carb/keto.

I knew I wanted to eat real food. I even started cutting back on junk before New Years Eve.

On Jan. 2nd 2021,  I saw the 5 Day Sugar Detox was starting. I signed up and started on the 3rd. That 5 days was just what I needed, and I went right into the 6-week program.

I’ve lost 27 pounds and have been living a Sugar-Free life for almost 8 months. I am no longer struggling with cravings and worrying about what the next meal is going to be. My mind is clear, and I can make choices about foods without being so emotionally impulsive.

All of the clothes in my closet fit! It is really freeing to be able to just wear the first outfit I put on and go about my day.

Being a part of the Sugar Free Mom Tribe has given me a group of incredible women to lean on. If you’re having a bad day and you see someone else sharing a win, it reminds you of what’s possible. If you are having a good day and you share, it encourages someone else. 

Brenda teaches you so much and instead of telling you exactly what you need to eat every single meal, she makes you figure it out.

Most people don’t like that, and I even struggled, but a few weeks in, I learned my body and what I need.

That makes it sustainable long term. If it weren’t for that and the good, better, best mentality, I’m not sure my long-term success would be the same. 

I’m looking forward to the rest of my life and continually increasing my health. I want to live a long and healthy life with my family.

What is you age and where do you live?

I’m 43, from Suwanee, GA.

How did you find Sugarfreemom.com and when did you decide to join the 6 week Sugar Detox course?

I had been following you on Social Media for over 2 years. I wish I knew how I found you, but I’m not sure. I do know that I saw your recipe for the SF Starbucks Vanilla Frappe and I made that first for my kids and their friends.

Did you have any health or weight struggles before joining the course and membership?

Ever since I graduated from college, I have struggled with my weight. 

What other programs have you tried before joining the sugar detox program?

I’ve done every program you can think of …Weight Watchers, LA weight loss, the fast metabolism diet, shakes, bars, trainers…the one thing that made me feel the best mentally and emotionally was low carb/keto.

How much weight did you lose and what other non scale victories have you had?

I’ve lost 27 pounds and have been living a Sugar-Free life for almost 8 months. I am no longer struggling with cravings and worrying about what the next meal is going to be. My mind is clear, and I can make choices about foods without being so emotionally impulsive.

What were you typically eating before making this lifestyle change?

Prior to becoming SF, I ate what everyone else was eating and drinking, I didn’t want to feel left out of the celebration or the moment. I ate the S.A.D (standard American diet) and I was sad.

What SugarFreemom recipes or resources have helped you?

Cloud bread is a game changer!

You cannot be sad when eating a grilled cheese sandwich, a cheeseburger salad, pork carnitas, jicama fries, chicken parm and so many more from her Naturally Keto Cookbook. I never run out of options.

I gave up sugar, but not desserts. I have made yummy coffee drinks, chocolate chip cookies, donuts and brownies. I don’t eat these daily, but if I want them, I make them. I don’t have to feel “left out”. I bring it to an event and share.

What does a typical day of eating look like now for you?

My typical day of eating varies except every day I start with a cup of coffee. I gave up many things, but I’m so glad coffee isn’t one of them.  I usually enjoy it with some Stevia and heavy cream.

Eggs and avocado with hot sauce and everything bagel seasoning are my go to if I am hungry. If I’m not hungry, I don’t eat until lunch. It’s usually leftovers from the night before or some meat and cheese and a handful of nuts.

I have cooked a ton of recipes from the Naturally Keto cookbook and the her website.

Final thoughts or takeaways?

Brenda teaches you so much and instead of telling you exactly what you need to eat every single meal, she makes you figure it out.

Most people don’t like that, and I even struggled, but a few weeks in, I learned more about my body and what I need. That makes it sustainable long term. If it weren’t for that and the good, better, best mentality, I’m not sure my long-term success would be the same. 

My new book, The 30-Day Sugar Elimination Diet is the program I teach to my online clients of the6 week Sugar Detox Course. Now you can buy it in book form. 

You can choose the diet track that suits your needs, keto or low-carb, both are interchangeable and easy to follow!

 

I tell you how to prepare for the plan, stock your kitchen and cook tasty meals that will leave you 100% satisfied all while weaning yourself off of sugar and without the nasty withdrawal symptoms!

 

The program is high protein and all the meals are whole foods, nothing fancy to buy!

 

Join the Sugar Free Mom Tribe Today!

The post Karie’s Weight Loss Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

I think I’ve had sugar issues for years. I loved chocolate cake and my sodas. Sonic knew me by my name and they’d have my order ready when I pulled in every day. I would drink so many sodas, big 32 ounce drinks every day. 

I was a size 0 and could eat whatever I wanted until I had my son at the age of 23. The weight gain from that pregnancy and a couple more kids after that just made me struggle with extra weight for all these years. 

I’ve had for Fibromyalgia for 10 years and Rheumatoid Arthritis got diagnosed last year and that’s how I found your program.

The doctor wanted me to go on a stronger medication that would require me to do blood work every 4 weeks, but I wasn’t convinced I had rheumatoid arthritis so I kept asking the doctor if my diet was what was causing me all of my pain. 

The doctor said, not with rheumatoid arthritis. Your diet can’t change that, you have to take the medication to control it. So I lied to my doctor and told her I was taking the medication, but I did not and started your program. I went back in a few months and told her I changed my diet and was feeling less pain.

My joint pain is almost gone! I used to be curled up on the couch all day long in pain. 

I used to not make it past 3 pm every day because my fatigue was so bad. I couldn’t function or even look at my phone and would need a 2 hour nap. Now my fatigue is gone!

What is you age and where do you live?

I am 45 and from South Texas.

How did you find Sugarfreemom.com and when did you decide to join the 6 week Sugar Detox course?

I was talking to a friend of a friend who is a Dietician and she mentioned it. She said she had a $50 off coupon and I decided try it. I only had 2 days to think about it before the next session started in January 2022 and I did not want to go on a stronger medication. (Next course starts 9/28/22, Get $50 Off here)

Did you have any health or weight struggles before joining the course and membership?

Diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Was also told I had celiacs, but never tried a gluten free diet as I didn’t think I could stick with it. I always looked bloated and my weight was rising to highest I had ever been. 

What other programs have you tried before joining the sugar detox program?

I tried Ideal Protein several years ago (before Keto was a big thing). I didn’t like the packets of food and it didn’t prepare me for the last stage (being on my own). I would get very sick with horrible withdrawal symptoms, even throwing up. I lost 30 pounds in 3 months but gained it all back.

I did not have any withdrawal symptoms when I started your 6 week detox course, a small headache, but nothing close to what I had on the Ideal protein diet. I stuck to tracking and 20 total carbs a day.

How much weight did you lose and what other non- scale victories have you had?

I have lost 32 pounds now and still counting! I weigh 128 and last year at this time I was 165 pounds! Dropped 3 dress sizes and clothes fit me so much better.

The bloating is gone, fatigue is gone and most of my achy joint pain is gone as well. 

What were you typically eating before making this lifestyle change?

I typically ate fast food at least once a day, if not twice a day. It was just easier (or so it seemed). I also loved my sweets and ate brownies, chocolate cake, cookies every single night. 

I had a snack bin in my car and always had something to munch on throughout the day. I was hungry first thing in the morning.

What SugarFreemom recipes or resources have helped you?

Your cookbook and website of recipes have helped a lot.

Loaded Cauliflower bake is one of my favorite and replaced mash potatoes. We make it at least once a week because my boys love it! Oh and your cheesecake is great for birthdays and celebrations!

What does a typical day of eating look like now for you?

I’m usually not that hungry. If I have breakfast it’s 2 eggs with cheese and 2 slices of bacon. Then I’ll have nuts and/or jerky for lunch and have a healthy dinner. Or I drink a Premier Protein shake in the morning, have leftovers for lunch from the night before and healthy dinner.

I always carry jerky sticks with me in my purse if I ever get hungry. I also have a big Yeti cup I keep filled with water and fresh squeezed lemon that I take everywhere with me. 

What have you learned from your journey?

That I am stronger than I thought I was. I didn’t think that 7 months from starting this I would still be sugar free and eating healthy.

The benefits of less fatigue and less pain outweigh my desire to cheat and eat things I shouldn’t. 

Final thoughts or takeaways?

I am so happy to come across your program. I tell everyone about it and they usually say “I could never do that”.

If I can do it, I believe anyone could! This program works because I was a huge sugar addict. It’s not a diet to me anymore. It’s a new way of life!

Learn More about the SugarFreeMom Tribe Weight Loss Support Membership!

Everything that Kristi learned in the 6 week Sugar Detox Course is now available in my next book the 30 day Sugar Elimination Diet.

The 30-Day Sugar Elimination Diet is now available for pre-order which guarantees you will receive a copy on release date before they sell out!

Learn more about the 6 week Sugar Free Fresh start Course.

The post Kristi’s Weight Loss Success Story appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.