WHAT began as a late-night food-binge routine and self-doubt, has become one of health, self-belief, and personal success for Bianca Jayde Margheriti, a Montclair resident who shed an impressive 55kg and discovered a new lease on life.

Also read: Mind conquering helps in Bluff man’s weight loss journey

Margheriti’s turning point came at the end of 2013 when she fell pregnant. By the time she gave birth to her son she weighed just over 100kg and struggled with unhealthy eating habits.

“I would literally eat whatever, at any time. Even in the evenings, I would always be snacking. My weight got out of control,” said Margheriti.

With no money for a gym membership and personal trainers, Margheriti took the matter into her own hands. She created a minimalist yet effective programme for herself — starting with a fruit, vegetable, soup and salad detox for as long as 14 days to get her metabolism going. The second phase was a three-month diet with improved portions, after which came a light exercise routine she could conduct at home.

“I hated exercising back then. I did not want to be around people who exercised because I thought they would judge me. So, I exercised at home and did everything there. It was a basic programme, but I stuck with it,” said Margheriti.

As she pushed through the programme, slowly she began to lose the pounds until she lost 55kg in total. The dramatic transformation landed her in a South African record book.

But it was not just a body makeover. Margheriti, now a mother to a 10-year-old son, says the process changed her thought processes and confidence level. Where once she avoided exercise, she now enjoys it.

“I like to exercise nowadays because it’s a pleasure now, and it is such a huge passion in my life,” said Margheriti.

She began researching food and nutrition too to find out more about health and well-being, further developing her passion for healthy living. Today, Margheriti’s story is an inspiration to others who may be at a loss at the beginning of their own weight loss battles.

“My tip is don’t let anyone judge you. All the people at the gym are concentrating on their objectives. With time, commitment and tolerance, weight loss can be achieved. It’s not all about being ideal, it’s about beginning and persevering,” she said.

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