How did Jared's story inspire you?
Well, I was reading the Toronto Star one day, and there was this news piece on Jared and how much weight he lost eating at Subway and walking. My first reaction was "Hey, this guy is just like me! Cool!" Then I saw the USA Today article on a placard in a Subway restaurant and I was still saying "Cool!"
It was nice to know that there was someone else out there succeeding at something that I was also doing.
Did you include walking and exercise as part of your weight loss strategy?
I walked, jogged and rode a bike everywhere. I had always been an avid walker, but I found that cycling was the best for doubling as my transportation to and from school and work. I still do walk, but it is usually when I want a change in pace and if I have more time. The one thing I love the most about walking is that it is also a time for reflection. On a bike I'm focused on the road, the traffic and pedestrians, but walking is 'my time' and I need that.
Did having low fat, healthy fast food available help you stick with your reduced calorie diet?
ABSOLUTELY!!! I am a journalist, still at college, I work part-time and I write for many publications, so the words 'on-the-go' exemplify my life. Subway made perfect sense to me; low fat, low carbs and right around every corner. There were no other alternatives that were as fresh either.
How is your life different now?
In every way possible. I'm healthier, much more confident, wise to what my body wants and needs and no longer self-effacing. I also quit smoking part way through, which had a huge impact on my health as well. About the only thing that changed that I wish didn't was that I am no longer able to pick-up as much weight wise, the leverage that I had, the extra 147 pounds, kept me grounded when I would carry home 10 bags of groceries. Now, I fall over. It's a funny sight I'm sure. But in general I am finally proud of myself on many levels, and that is apparent in how I approach everything in my life now. (Without trying to sound too Zen!)
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Best Choices for Fast Food
