A CHRISTMAS photograph taken in 2019 was the final straw for one Carlisle man — looking at it he felt he looked “horrible, fat and unhealthy.”
Having always been confident, Nezar Ibrahim felt his physical appearance told a different story.
The 37-year-old made the decision to join Slimming World at Harraby Community Centre, along with his partner, and has never looked back.
At first, he thought losing weight would be difficult, but that was far from the truth and he soon realised the food-optimising plan — including all the food he loved to eat — it just changed the way he cooked them.
“Changes in habits have made the difference and attending group has helped to turn those changes into new habits,” explained Nezar.
“I’ve also learned that planning ahead is definitely key to success.”
One of the biggest challenges for Nezar was late-night snacking.
He said: “I’d happily eat two or three bags of crisps along with sandwiches. But eating satisfying meals made from scratch without having to count a single calorie has made losing weight all the more easy.
“My favourite is beef tagliatelle, simple to make, full of flavour and very filling, with Slimming World there is no need to be hungry. With my partner spurring me on, too, those late-night habits have become history.”
A year on, Nezar is proud of how he looks and shopping for clothes has become fun again — he has recently donated more than five bags of clothes to charity stores because they are too big for him.
It’s not just about looking and feeling better, Slimming World has changed Nezar’s level of fitness. As an ex-solider who had been fit and healthy, he said: “I was frustrated that I would quickly become out of breath when just being out for a walk with my two boys, nevermind playing football with them. Now I’m back playing football with the younger lads from work and giving them a run for their money.”
Having lost more than two and a half stone, Nezar is just 9lb away from hitting his target weight. “My whole life has changed and I’m incredibly proud of my achievements,” added Nezar.
“Going to group and having the support of like-minded member and a fabulous consultant really helps. There’s always motivation and support, especially on tricky weeks when you feel like you’re struggling and in need of some inspiration.”
Rachel Dawkins, Slimming World consultant, said: “Nezar always shares some amazing recipes with the group.
“We are all inspired by him and his delicious menus.”
Rachel can be contacted on 07734356537.
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