Throughout most of my life, losing weight has always been a challenge for me. I have tried numerous failed diets until I ultimately decided to make my health a priority and start taking my weight loss journey seriously. I chose to undergo bariatric surgery with Elias Ortiz & Company, but this is where my weight loss journey had only just begun.

In addition to bariatric surgery, I had to make changes to my diet and lifestyle to aid in weight loss and maintain my figure post-op. Not only did this help me lose over 200 pounds, but it also helped me prioritize my health. By making mindful choices and focusing on whole foods, I managed to fuel my body in the best way possible.

Some of the many failed diets I’ve tried include Weight Watchers, The Soup Diet, Keto, Paleo, and counting calories. One of the core principles of my weight loss journey was adopting a high protein, low carb, and low sugar diet. I found that this approach helped me feel more energized, satisfied, and less likely to crave unhealthy snacks. I made the conscious decision to cut out snacking and eliminate ultra-processed foods from my diet, saying goodbye to sodas and other sugary foods or beverages. Instead, I focused on eating nutrient-dense, whole foods to give my body the fuel it needed.

My daily diet consisted of staple foods such as a lot of chicken, egg whites, mushrooms, sweet potato, and turkey. These foods not only taste great but also support my high protein, low carb, and low sugar dietary goals. I replaced any ultra-processed and unhealthy snacking foods with nuts, which kept me full for longer in between meals.

Since I was consuming less sugary beverages, I focused on drinking lots of water instead. Hydration is very important when you are trying to lose weight, and I always make sure to keep hydrated throughout the day. I’ve never really been a fan of fruits and vegetables; however, I do make green smoothies to ensure that I am getting my micro-nutrients in. I recommend this for anyone who also isn’t a fan of fruits and veggies but still wants to include them in their diet.

Making changes to my diet wasn’t always easy. At first, I dealt with a lot of cravings and had to push past them. Once I got over the initial cravings, I started to feel how my body started responding so much better to a healthier lifestyle and that was enough to keep me on track.

My advice to anyone starting their weight loss journey and looking to make changes to their diet is to make sure the changes you make are sustainable. They should be something you can do every day, as this is key to a lifestyle change versus just another yoyo diet. It’s important to get in the mindset to fuel your lifestyle rather than just feeding your cravings.

Through my weight loss journey, I’ve learned that nourishing my body with whole foods isn’t just about weight loss: it’s about feeling my best and making choices that promote a healthier, happier life.

About Kayla Lavende

Kayla Lavende is a proud success story of Elias Ortiz & Company, having lost over 200 pounds with bariatric surgery. Her journey has been highlighted in major media outlets and captivated millions when it went viral on TikTok, amassing over 14 million views and inspiring a wave of encouragement from people worldwide. Her mission is to empower others to take charge of their health and explore the possibilities of a better future.