Mar 22, 2013 | Emotional Wellbeing, Food, Health, Real Life Stories
Faith G had already tried ‘all those types of things’ before. She eventually gave our program a go…and has discovered 2 things – it’s different and it works! We have been so impressed with her tenacity over the long term to stay focused on what she wanted and why. She is currently down 3 stone and is still on track for her healthy weight. This is what she had to share with us…
Where do you live?
Solihull.
Do you have or work with children – if so doing what?
Yes, I have two boys 13 and 15 and I work with children and young people on weekends doing youth work.
How did your weight affect you/and how you were around the children you work with?
I was very inactive and always feeling tired and aching in my joints especially my hips and knees. I was always feeling ill and continuously visited my doctor. Very often I would become emotional as I felt that I was not able to do a lot of activities with my kids.
Have you ever tried to lose weight before?
I tried umpteen times on various diets, I spent large amounts of money in order to loose weight.
So why did you choose this program?
This program was highly recommended to me by Claire, but at first I thought not another one of those, so I left it for a while. Then she came again and asked me had I thought about the weight loss program. Curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to give it a try, to be honest half-heartedly really, not truly believing that this would work or even satisfy my hunger pangs, I ventured into the program.
What is your favourite new product so far?
That’s easy. The strawberry Nutrimeal shake will always remain my favourite.
What has it been like losing weight this way?
It’s been so different to anything I tried before. I am feeling much more confident about myself. I am a lot fitter, healthier and much more agile. Most importantly I have dropped two dress sizes which is my biggest achievement! [woo hoo!-Ed]
What has surprised you so far?
That the one and only program which I thought would not help me, has in fact helped me to lose the weight. It really is the healthy way to do it…
What was your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge was having to prepare dinner for my family and learning to think differently about the ingredients that I used. I wanted to use stuff which was wholesome and healthy for everyone, not just myself.
How helpful / supportive were the people around you?
My family especially were extremely supportive as they realised the importance of being healthy and staying healthy. They have watched me stick to my commitment to get healthy, and I know they have benefited too. I started noticing my Peanut Butter bars were going down faster than I was eating them 😉
Have you noticed any changes other than weight loss / shrinking!?
Yes. There are a number of changes as I started to use the products and get into the program. It was wonderful being able to move more easily, and as my joint pain went I could get in the gym and start exercising. Relatively quickly I found that I was much more alert, energetic and flexible.
How are you feeling about the next phase?
I am not quite where I want/need to be but I’m on route. I still need to lose one more dress size but I am very confident that I will get there soon.
What do your children think of your weight loss journey so far?
They are very pleased about my weight loss. They have a more active Mum. It’s good for them that I’m happier, healthier and more confident.
Anything else you think other people should know about this experience?
I did it and if there ever was a skeptic, truly I was one! But I am glad that I eventually stopped to listen, and gave it a proper try.
1 Year : down 3 stone 8 lbs so far… that’s 2 dress sizes in real money!!
Thanks for sharing your story with us Faith. You are looking great – and we know you are enjoying your new wardrobe too 😉 We know you will be a real inspiration to other Mums…and what an amazing example you have set for your family. That’s leadership in our book!
Mar 22, 2013 | Health, Real Life Stories, School
Clare CÂ has been a well-respected teacher in primary schools for many years, however, like so many teachers she was feeling the strain. She decided it was time to get proactive – as she wanted to maintain her health whilst still doing the job she loves. Here’s what she had to say…
Where do you live?
For about ten years I lived in Great Barr, Birmingham, before moving over to Walsall. I find it ‘greener’ here. I enjoy the friendly atmosphere, and the dog loves going for walks in the fields across the road!
Do you have or work with children – if so doing what?
Since qualifying as a primary school teacher over fifteen years ago I’ve worked in primary schools. I love my job, although it can be physically and mentally demanding. I specialize in music and now I choose to spend much of my week teaching music in several different schools, as well as teaching instrumental lessons in the evenings.
What do you find are some of the challenges to your health doing your job?
I think it would be using my voice a lot on a daily basis. I used to suffer with tonsillitis or severe colds nearly every school holiday. I’d also be physically tired and would often fall asleep on the sofa in the evenings.
Why did you start using nutritional products?
I didn’t enjoy being ill nearly every school holiday; I craved better health and more energy! I’d tried various things when I was a student, but I don’t have memories of them actually helping. When a friend – who also worked in schools – recommended these products I didn’t hesitate. She showed me how being made to a ‘pharmaceutical grade’ made a difference, and it made sense to me; plus I trusted her opinion. I knew she had used these products and had experienced great results with them, and to be honest I couldn’t wait to get started!
So which nutritional products do you currently use and why?
I use Usana’s Essentials; the separate pots of Antioxidants and Chelated Minerals mean my body can access the different vitamins and minerals when it most needs them. I also take BiOmega every day, as a fantastic source of essential fatty acids; my hair, skin and nails all look great, and my mood is consistently bright too (a definite positive being a teacher!).
As well as teaching, I play a fair bit of sport and like to keep active, so I take Procosa to help look after my joints, both now and for the future. And in case of any sneaky niggles, or children sneezing a lot around (or over) me, I also keep a pot of Proflavanol handy for added protection and an extra boost for my immune system. All in all, I feel much healthier now than I did ten years ago – and falling asleep on the sofa is a thing of the past!
What about food? Where does that fit in?
Thankfully, I love colour on my plate, so I’ve always been good at eating a range of fruit and vegetables every day. Realistically, I know that some evenings, (and daytimes!) at particular times of the year, will be busy, so I’m careful to plan ahead, and make sure that I keep a Nutrimeal shake in the kitchen cupboard. I’m always well-stocked on Usana’s low GI snack bars too, so I can grab a bar or a shake when I’m in a rush, rather than grabbing anything from any golden arches or other fast food establishments!
So have you noticed any changes in your health since using these products?
Absolutely! I’ve been using these supplements for over four years now, and continue to have great results. My energy levels have increased, my recovery time from injury etc is much quicker, and I feel much healthier overall than I used to.
Have any of those changes had a knock-on effect for how you function generally, or how you are with the children you work with?
I find that I’m able to do more, and in general I enjoy life much more now I have such a high level of wellbeing. In terms of the children I work with, I’d say that I have more energy, am more patient, and am able to sit down on and get up from Nursery and Reception chairs much more easily!
Have you ever had to explain to children you know why you take these products?Â
Yes – my nephews asked me lots of questions. I explained to them about free-radicals and how important antioxidants are, and they really got it. Both of them are keen advocates of the products now! They both take Usanimals, and are incredibly active in the evenings and at weekends, whilst still having plenty of energy and concentration on daily basis at school. Their teachers have commented on how healthy and ‘ready for school’ they are every day.
What tips would you give someone who was interested in looking for a good supplement but doesn’t want to waste their money?
First I’d say, ask yourself what price you put on your health?
Seriously, I’d suggest they really think about it, and consider whether products that are really cheap can be of real quality? Â Also I’d suggest comparing different products, and not just on price and ingredients but on other things too, like the standard of manufacturing. Check for third party opinions too… but only from people who know what they are talking about…and aren’t being paid millions to endorse a particular product.
And then try it – see yourself in the future enjoying improved health, and be glad that you made the decision to invest in yourself now.
4 Years of investing in health…
Thanks for that Clare. Sounds like you are definitely getting the results you wanted… And it’s fantastic that your nephews have such a great start at really understanding health concepts at their age. You are clearly a great teacher, in school and out!Â
Mar 21, 2013 | Emotional Wellbeing, Food, Health, Real Life Stories
Maxine SÂ decided it was time for change…and let a friend’s recommendation help her start her journey back to health after a few years that have been really emotionally tough. This is how she found the 5 Day Detox…
Where do you live?
In Droylsden, Manchester.
Do you have or work with children – if so doing what?
Not only do I have 2 children, but for my sins, I am an Assistant Beaver Scout Leader!
How did your weight affect you/and how you were around the children you work with?
Even though I am tall (5″7) the weight was not visible to the naked eye, however, having sat down at work for most of the day, when I looked down at my feet, it was as though I was sharing my chair with another person. The later in the day, the more the gravity took hold. Knowing this, I would deliberately chose an outfit every morning, that would hide my shape. To make matters worst, on an evening when I would go to scouts, I found it difficult to keep up with the Beavers – not surprisingly, they are aged 4 – 8 years! That sluggish feeling, at the end of the day, was taking a hold.
Have you ever tried to loose weight before?
Yes and I was successful. But I’ve been through a lot in the last few years, and it has all crept back on again.
So why did you choose this program?
I was at the stage where I had convinced myself I was suffering from the SAD syndrome. My friend saw straight through this and suggested I take some supplements to give my body back what it was lacking, alongside this weight programme. I did not have an illness, I was just tired – like most people – but instead of trying to find out why, I just self-diagnosed myself with something that was closest to the way I was feeling. After just 5 days, I found myself with a new lease on life and so she suggested I go to the gym to utilize this extra energy. To my surprise, I enjoy it! I have started to feel healthier – running around with Beavers isn’t such a chore! I have seen first hand how these products work as my friend has been using them for some time, and she looks good!
What is your favourite new product so far?
The strawberry nutrimeal is (and probably always will be!) my favourite. It is so easy to make. A few ounces of water, 3 scoops of shake and result! For the busy lifestyle I am leading, this is ideal.
What was it like starting to loose weight this way?
I think it’s the best way. I know exactly what I am putting into my body, and exactly what it is doing for my body. I know that everything is science-based and top quality – which is why it works.
What has surprised you so far?
The speed at which I started to feel the difference. The lack of tiredness. That sluggish feeling. It all went away so quickly.
What was your biggest challenge?
Getting used to the idea of not eating, but mainly drinking for a few days! Sounds strange, but it is a hard habit to break. I think it’s just habit though…because all food ends up as liquid inside us eventually!
How helpful / supportive were the people around you?
At no point did I ever feel I was on my own. Not only did I work with my friend who put me on the programme, but I knew there was a wider team available for support, should I need any.
Have you noticed any changes other than weight loss / shrinking!?
Yes, the energy. I feel like I could take on the world – I even registered to run the Manchester half marathon.
What have your learned so far?
So much about health and wellness. To be aware of what you’re putting into your body, but most importantly, you cannot put a cost on your health.
How are you feeling about the next phase?
Scared out of my wits! I know it can work, but I don’t know if I have the sticking power. It’s more about me really. I know loads of others have been able to do it, so I guess I should too. I’ll just keep setting short term goals – anything longer scares me.
How do you think this journey might affect the way you are around the children you know?
Massive awareness. I don’t buy my children sugary cereal anymore and I limit the amount of sweets they have. Education is a good thing, and I’m passing it on to them too.
What do your children think of you and your weight loss journey so far?
They are pleased for me. I have more time and energy to spend with them. I do things now I could not be bothered to do before. The kind of things that would involve me using my legs for walking rather than just pushing the pedals in my car!
Anything else you think other people should know about this experience?
Yes. It is well worth it, but they should be warned about possible headaches. I know these don’t happen to everyone, and they can be controlled easily by drinking plenty of water, but lack of experience and being ‘hard of hearing’ (I just didn’t listen to the advice when I was given it), made me find out the hard way.
5 DAYS in : down 6 lbs so far…
Thanks for that Maxine. What a great start to getting back in control again. Keep going like this and those Beavers will be finding it hard to keep up with you!
Mar 1, 2013 | Children, Emotional Wellbeing, Food, Real Life Stories
Clair HÂ recently got in touch to ask for some guidance in loosing weight. She jumped at our award-winning, science-based weight management program and has such great focus and clarity about what she wanted and why. She is loving her results (although we are not so surprised by those) and we are loving her attitude. She is only 3 weeks in and already down 1 stone 3lbs. This is how she has found it so far…
Where do you live?
I currently live in Dublin’s fair city, well South of Dublin really in a little village called Rathcoole. I am, however, (and feel compelled to point this out) a Lancastrian by birth and a true Northerner through and through.
Do you work with children – if so doing what?
I do indeed work with children and have done for nearly all of my adult life. I am currently working with a family who have three children one of whom is physically disabled with cerebral palsy, they are all a joy and a challenge at times.
How did your weight affect you/and how you were around the children you work with?
I have always been quite self conscious about my weight, and when I first started this job in particular I felt my fitness was not up to scratch and that the few extra pounds I had gained from having stopped smoking were impacting on my health and keeping up with generally running around after three children. I was aware that at times the eldest child particularly picked up on my being down a little.
Have you ever tried to loose weight before?
Blimey where do you want me to start with that epic story??? LOL. I have lost count of the number of times I have tried to lose weight, I have been successful but for some reason it always creeps back on when I least expect it to.
So why did you choose this program?
I chose this program because I was inspired by the status of an old friend on facebook….See Social Media is not all bad (and Claire I don’t actually mean that you are old!!!!! lol) [of course you didn’t – we’re the same age! -Ed]. I was at a low ebb at that time and had started to think about trying to lose weight again, mainly because I discovered that I was the heaviest I had ever been at 14st 1lb, I had lost a few pounds and wavered at around 13st 9lb – 13st 6lb, but it got me down with the yoyo-ing. I spoke at length to Claire who explained the principles of the program based on a low GI diet after a detox and I thought this is for you girl go to it and so I did.
What is your favourite new product so far?
I love the peanut butter bars they really satisfy my sweet tooth and taste really good. I also like the vanilla shake….but you can keep the strawberry one, it’s not for me I’m afraid.
What was it like during the 5 Day RESET phase?
Surprisingly I managed really well with this. As well as the low GI meals and snacks I got in my pack, I had some low GI fruit and ate a few walnuts if I felt peckish during the day at all. Going out with friends was a massive challenge especially as they all had lunch, but I was very good and asked for a garden salad of lettuce, onion, tomatoes without dressing and had a snack bar after this. I avoided tea and coffee as well which was no mean feat, but I thought detox means detox, no cheating that sets me up to cheat and have bad habits. Anyone who knows me well will know once I start something I become stubborn and determined to succeed.
What has surprised you so far?
The biggest surprise so far has been that I have not really missed not eating cakes, sweets or biscuits, for me not to eat those is nothing short of a miracle.
What was your biggest challenge?
My biggest struggle has been not having bread, potatoes, rice and pasta as they were part of my staple diet previously. That said, because I am stubborn and determined I have learnt about foods with low GI that I could use as a substitute.
How helpful / supportive were the people around you?
My parents have been brilliant, even my dad who would be the first to try and tempt has been really good and when I have declined anything, and has not pursued it further (and trust me that’s a big thing.) My partner has not been the greatest when I came back to Dublin and told him about this, all he was bothered about was how much it was costing me. (Typical). Claire Wilson has been amazing with her phone calls, emails, messages on facebook and I am eternally grateful for that. Also the 21 Day Trim Down daily emails and other resources, have provided further support and useful information I can keep going back to.
Have you noticed any changes other than weight loss / shrinking!?
Yes. Even after the first 5 Days, I felt a great deal of difference in terms of my energy levels and I was sleeping better too.
What have your learned so far?
I have learnt that losing weight does not need to be a chore, all you need to do is listen to your body and make sure it gets a good balanced diet but one that keeps your blood sugars balanced.
How are you feeling about the next phase?
I’m looking forward to the next phase, where I can introduce a few more carbs, but I think I will be keeping them all low GI. I will continue my current plan for a while longer till I hit my goal weight.
How do you think this journey might affect the way you are around the children you work with?
I think this will have a quite profound and positive effect on way I am around the children I work with. Feeling happier in yourself shows outwardly, children are very perceptive (something we should never forget). They can sense if you are not yourself. A happy you means they too will be happy.
Anything else you think other people should know about this experience?
I advise anybody to give this a go, it’s not a diet rather more it is an education programme about eating the right things for you body, mind and spirit. Thanks Claire.
3 WEEKS : down 1 stone 3 lbs  so far…Â
Thanks for sharing your story with us Clair. Congratulations on your success so far. We know you’ll be at your goal before you know it. We’ll catch up with you again for a chat and maybe a full length pic then too?!
Jan 20, 2013 | Emotional Wellbeing, Health, Real Life Stories, Resources, testimonial, Trauma, TRE
There seem to be so many people out there who, like me, have been through the experience of a car crash and survived, but they don’t really know what to do in the first days, weeks or months to help themselves recover and heal their mind as well as body.
I believe that this is a major reason for a lot of post traumatic stress that people don’t even realise they have…yet it affects them, and those around them in all sorts of ways; moods, snappy, emotional, struggling to articulate what you mean, concentration, planning etc are just a few…
All of these are symptoms of stress that show the impact of the trauma is still sitting in the body, and it can still be there even after months or years.
People often feel like they are going mad, because they don’t understand the changes in them and their personality or ability.
The people living with them often start to wonder if their loved one is going mad too, because they don’t understand either…
Obviously not everyone who experiences a car accident will be like this – but it is amazing how many people I have spoken to, who really relate. It is actually very common – and not because of madness!
So I wrote After the Crash – eBook. I wanted to see if I could offer some practical help and encouragement to survivors and their friends, family and colleagues.  Obviously my professional therapeutic training fed into it – but I purposely kept it all really simple and easy to read. I remember what it was like trying to read something after my crash!
The feedback I have had already is just humbling – even people who know someone who had a crash years ago, now seem to be understanding what they went through in a whole new way.
If you want to check it out for yourself then you can buy the e-book here
 Buy now
After the Crash eBook
I just wanted to say how impressed I was with you ebook. I particularly like the way it is set out; small bite sized pieces of information – absolutely vital for those who have recently experienced trauma. I hope that one day your book will be given to everyone who presents at their GP or A&E Department after a car crash. Being given a copy of this book immediately following a collision might prevent years of unnecessary suffering.
Jan – Therapist, Supervisor, Life Coach, NLP Practitioner
Thank you so much for sharing this Claire. She (friend) burst into tears when she read it and said ‘someone really understands what she is going through’. You are an angel.
Clive – Firefighter
Thanks so much for taking the time to put all this together. Fantastic advice. I’m certain it will help my friend. Especially for all the hidden and underlying issues that you couldn’t hope to be aware of. Thank again.
S – Youth Worker
Thank you for everything… you’ve been the first person to take me seriously & understand. As you suggested I went to the GP and he signed me off for a week. I burst into tears when I sat down! My partner’s told me not to cry as it’s bad for me as it tenses me up…you get some idea of what I’m living with!! This ebook is going to help us both!!
C – Psychologist
1 Year : down 3 stone 8 lbs so far… that’s 2 dress sizes in real money!! 
