It all started when the doctor told me that all I had to do was lose weight and I will lose my backache.
I remember the days back in high school. When I get a bit fat from eating too much, then all I need to do is not eat for 3-5 days and I am back to my normal size/weight. I tried to do that now that I am already 30 years old and guess what - I could not do it. I would get a headache and end up binging. After which, I gave up going on a diet or minimizing my food intake because I just simply told myself that its hard so I won’t do it.
Then came the day my dad got confined in the hospital for more than 2 weeks. The doctor told us that everything that he was experiencing was a complication of diabetes. Diabetes is indeed a complex disease but it is very easy to maintain - only discipline is needed: eat the proper food in the proper amount and take your medicine regularly. I saw my dad on his hospital bed and saw myself in the future - if I do not take care of myself. Diabetes is hereditary (both my mom and dad’s side have it) plus the fact that if I don’t take care of myself, I can get it, even without the genes. So, the very day my dad got discharged from the hospital I started my roadmap to losing weight. I know it was not going to be easy. Well as they say "No pain, no gain."
Today is the 4th month and I am down to 103 lbs. from 115 lbs. (I am 5 feet 4 inches tall) I just did my regular exercises at home. I feel much healthier and livelier - I can practically walk miles without feeling tired. I can walk along the covered walk way from the stretch of Ayala Ave cor Buendia to the Landmark area without having to lose my breath and the best part of it is that I no longer get any back aches.
All you got to have is discipline. Here are a few tips:
1) Motivation from loved ones. (Mike has always been there to support me, thanks so much!)
2) Eat in moderation. Eat 3 meals a day but make sure you have that special cup to measure your carbs (this includes your rice, the potatoes, and the high carb veggies) Start with 1 cup per meal then as you progress, taper down to 1/2 cup per meal. Eat as much protein (chicken, pork beef etc and low carb veggies) If you get hungry in between, eat any one of the following: a high fiber snack, some nuts or a piece of fruit or one square piece of chocolate (Note: 1 small square only!)
3) Eat slowly! So that you can taste and chew your food well and give enough time for your brain to register the "feeling of fullness and satisfaction"
4) Spare at least 10-15 mins a day for cardio exercises during the 1st few weeks and 10-15 for core exercises.
5) Don’t keep looking at the weighing scale. Just use a tape measure for your waist and arms. Only do it after the first month.
6) Take 1 tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar once a day (I use Braggs) - it gives a lot of other therapeutic effects aside from burning the fat.
7) Always be happy - enjoy what you do and take the time to laugh.
This is the regimen that worked for me… and some might not agree with it. The older you get, the harder it is to lose the excess fat so better start today 
But always remember that the first step is for you to help yourself. The willingness should come from YOU.
**If you have any questions, I’d be happy to help you out just send me a message
