A woman who said her weight got her into a series of ’embarrassing’ situations has opened up about her epic transformation.
According to registered dietitian Lyndi Cohen, having a positive body image means people are “more likely” to take care of themselves.
Less than a year ago, Ellen Palandri’s confidence was at an all-time low after hitting her heaviest weight of 149kg, and was stuck finding stylish size 22 clothes.
The 25-year-old from Cowaramup, Western Australia, told news.com.au she had always been a taller than average child and teenager and often used food as an emotional crutch.
These bad habits continued as she got older, and her addiction to high-calorie, high-carb foods, such as instant noodles, became an important part of her daily diet.
She then landed a job as a retail assistant at a lollipop store, which only further contributed to her weight gain.
But it was a series of embarrassing situations, in addition to her low self-esteem, that Ellen says motivated her to turn her life around.
Ellen lost an incredible 55 kg. Image: Provided
She would use food as an emotional crutch. Image: Provided
Eleven months later, she now feels happier and healthier than ever in her brand new size 16 frame – and is sharing her story to help inspire others who may be on the same path.
“As far back as I can remember, I’ve always been taller,” she said.
“When I was growing up, I always used food for emotional support.
“I knew I wasn’t supposed to look the way I did, but I didn’t really know how to change my ways.
“I was never the kid who did sports, because I was embarrassed by my body and my appearance when I was running.
“I was always picked last when I was on teams, so I think that didn’t make me want to play sports.
“I really felt like I wasn’t good enough and didn’t look like other kids my age.”
Looking back, Ellen says she can see how much being overweight cost her, both physically and mentally.
She feels happier than ever after transforming her body. Image: Provided
Ellen’s heaviest weight was 149 kg. Image: Provided
“My weight loss journey started with a healthy dose of self-loathing.
“Before, I was too scared to show my body in photos that I posted on the Internet.
“I would never participate in group photos with my friends and family because I was ashamed. I really had to look at myself and ask myself if I wanted to live my life feeling like this.
“I also felt extremely tired most of the time. My feet hurt standing for long hours and I felt like I couldn’t function like most people.
“At the peak, I had chronic daily headaches, which led to me staying home more often because I was in pain.”
One of the worst things about being overweight for Ellen was the embarrassment it sometimes caused in social situations.
At her peak, she went through the ‘mortifying’ experience of breaking chairs and also felt ashamed that she couldn’t fit into an amusement park ride.
Ellen’s weight loss inspires others. Image: Provided
She had to stick to a moderate calorie deficit. Image: Provided
“I broke two different chairs, and it was so embarrassing,” she recalls.
“The first time, I was at a meeting at home with friends. We all laughed together but I was crying inside.
“The second was in a kebab shop after a night out, and one of the metal legs broke. People helped me and asked if I was okay.
“Another time I went to Adventure World in Perth. I lined up and rode up to one of their new rides, sat on the seat, and then the restraints wouldn’t engage.
“So I had to get down and out of the ride in front of a lot of people.”
Ellen started her fitness journey by joining a gym and working out 4 times a week with a focus on strength training.
However, she did not change her eating habits, and due to building more muscle, she ended up gaining more weight.
His weight was affecting his mental health. Image: Provided
But now Ellen feels more confident than ever. Image: Provided
But after some research, Ellen realized that she needed to be in a calorie deficit to lose weight.
Once she figured that out and stuck to her calorie goals, the weight started to melt away.
She stuck to her routine and has now lost an epic 55kg, and feels more confident and healthier than ever.
“I don’t hit the gym 5 times a week and stick to a slight calorie deficit,” she said.
“But I’m kind to myself, and when I feel like I need to eat more or take a break, that’s exactly what I do.
“I realized that as long as you are consistent 80% of the time you will see results.
“I completely changed the way I look at my body. I’m so proud of myself for committing to changing my health for the better.
“I am very happy. My journey will never be over, but it is now my way of life.