So today's Paleo success story is all about 36 year old Kristy Griner and her incredible transformation from a women who weighed 284lbs and was comprised of 49% body fat to someone who now weights 163lbs, is 23% body fat and can dead-lift something that weighs more than your refrigerator.
She was very forthcoming with her story and answered EVERY question I asked. I have included all the questions and answers below so you can get the most bang for your buck (being that this blog is free that really makes no sense does it?).
I would suggest you read this post with the goal of STEALING IDEAS. Be sure you have a pen and paper handy and write down those things that really strike you. There is a lot you can take and apply RIGHT NOW!
As a SPECIAL BONUS, Kristy will be checking in regularly over the weekend to answer any questions you may have for her. So be sure to leave a comment below.
Alright, I will zip it so you can dig into her wonderful story. Enjoy!
*****
Talk to us about when your weight became an issue for you and some of the details as to why that was?
Weight has been an issue you with me on and off my whole life. I was overweight in high school and gained more weight afterwards. It wasn't easy having skinny, beautiful friends who had boyfriends, while I only got attention from guys so they could get to my friends.
In 1999, I told my dad I wanted to be a police officer. He took that to heart and dragged my a$$ out of bed one morning to being my training. I lost 80 pounds and got into the Police Academy. I was 185lbs and still in crappy shape compared to everyone else, but I passed the academy.
In 2001, I got hired with the San Diego Sheriffs Department (Detentions) and porked out again. Night shifts were brutal and taco shop runs became the norm.
In March 2007, my husband and I moved to Nashville. That is where my REAL struggles began. I left my entire life behind (San Deigo) to move here (Henderson, Tennessee) and start a family. At that time I was about 205 pounds.
Things did not turn out like I thought they would. I got pregnant with my son Danny and porked out. Then I lost my job.
I guess it was safe to say I hit ROCK BOTTOM.
What was your peak weight? Did you have any health problems.
Before I had my baby, I was 285 pounds. I lost 20 after having him, but I was suffering. I had back pain, postpartum depression, fibromyalgia, plantar fasciitis and I was lonely.
I was taking Soma (Muscle Relaxers) for pain and Sevella (pain and depression) on a regular basis.
I was sleeping all day long, crying all the time, and in pain.
What was your breaking point?
My breaking point was when I became a new mom. My body was in such pain that I had no desire to do anything. I felt like my husband didn’t love me anymore. He wasn’t paying any attention to me. I know now, that he was suffering too. I had all the classic signs of depression.
It was not until January 2009 when I finally decided to go to the doctor about all this. She put me on some anti-depressants. I was reluctant to take them, but I was desperate at that point.
After a few weeks, my mood started improving. That is when I went searching for a gym and found a diamond in the rough.
Diamond you say? Do tell.
After seeing my doctor, I joined a weight loss support group called TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly). I set a goal weight with a doctor and did mild exercise, but the pounds were not coming off.
Then I got wind of Hendersonville First Baptist having a gym which cost $25 a month. I signed up. I got a free 30 minute session with a trainer and I
followed his plan, but I wanted more. Out of work, I would somehow scrape $20 up and ask the trainer for more.
One day he said, "I can't help you anymore, but I know who can." He introduced me to my angel...Lindsey McDuffie, who was the owner of Crossfit Hendersonville. There was no way I could afford her services, but I did one free WOD (workout of the day) and I was hooked.
I remember that WOD. It SUCKED. I was in pain, I felt like a LOSER, but I wanted more. So I went to my friends and asked if I could clean their houses and wash their cars to pay for my membership so I could continue.
How did you discover the Paleo Diet?
Lindsey slowly started talking to me about my nutrition. I have lost weight before so I thought I knew it all. I kept thinking, "What does this 25 year old know about food?" I was reluctant to try Paleo because at the time I thought, “I ain’t gonna eat like a damn Hippy.”
Whoa! Was I wrong. She convinced me to do an 8 week "Eat your Best" challenge . The goal was to eat my best and she would grade my 
food journal and tell me what changes to make.
The hardest for me was getting off dairy. Lindsey posed a challenge to get me off all dairy for 2 weeks. I did that and WOW! She was right…my joints hurt less (good for my Fibromyalgia) and the weight was coming off.
I tested it one day by having a milkshake . The next morning my knees hurt like crazy. That’s when I learned that what you eat today, dictates how you feel tomorrow.
I am not strict Paleo and I probably never will be, but I have learned that everything in moderation.
So explain what these gradual changes looked like for you?
Some people can do the 30 day strict Paleo kickoff, but that was not for me so I opted to make gradual changes.
I ate a ton of pasta, bread, and rice. So for week 1, I decided I was going to reduce my bread intake by 50%.
For week 2, I continued with my 50% bread reduction, but I also had a vegetable with one meal. Then it was veggies with 2 meals. Then I followed that by cutting my bread back by 75%.
Then I had to learn to love salads. I had to lose the ranch dressing, so I swapped it out for Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing. 
I think you get the point. I made small changes until I discovered what felt good.
I also started finding things that could mimic the foods I loved. For instance I started using cauliflower rice vs rice. I could still eat it like a stir fry. The only difference was that I had swapped out the grain for something that fit into the Paleo template.
My weight loss took 22 months, but it was worth it!
Talk about the first month or two? What where some of biggest obstacles and how did you address them?
I'm not going to lie. The first several months SUCKED. I never allowed myself to eat CLEAN for longer than a few days before I fell off the wagon. But I finally understood how crappy I felt when I ate crappy foods.
My biggest obstacle the first few months was WAITING FOR RESULTS. I wanted an instant fix.
I also had trouble getting my routine down mostly because I had no ME time.
I knew I had to make ME a priority, but I struggled with that. I finally had to tell my husband that I was going to be selfish for a while, so that I could get back on track. I mean how could I possibly take care of my family if I was miserable?
What are some strategies you used to make the transition sustainable?
During the 8-week “Eat your Best Challenge” Lindsay had me take my measurements, weigh myself, take before photos, and I was required to keep and submit a weekly food journal. These little challenges helped me transition into this lifestyle.
How long did it take before you noticed positive results?
Physically, it took a few months to see any results, but after 3 weeks, I was ready to lift heavier, walk faster, and go harder. I was motivated, because I was feeling good about me. I still hated who I saw in the mirror, but knew if I kept doing what I was doing, I would someday love ME. I was right.
Talk about your family and friends? Were they supportive?
Words can’t describe how supportive my friends and family have been. I moved 2000 miles away. We didn’t know anyone in Hendersonville, but the people at TOPS and Crossfit were so supportive.
I also used Facebook as a tool to announce my successes and failures. That was VERY instrumental in my success because I learned I was not the only one who felt the way I did. I got support when I failed and cheers when I succeeded.
I soon started hearing that I was inspiring others. That motivated me even more. I was even able to get others to join me on my journey. How awesome is that?
My daddy even started working out. He followed in my footsteps. He started eating Paleo-Esque and exercising and has lost 70+ pounds. He is 63 and in better shape than when he was in his 50’s.
Talk about your triggers.
ICE CREAM is my trigger food. I ate it when I was sad and I ate it when I was happy. I love ice cream. To avoid binges, I have what I call “Milkshake Monday.” Every Monday, I treat myself to an ice cream.
CHIPS and SALSA are another treat. When I go out to a Mexican restaurant, my rule is that I only eat the chips till the food gets there. I know my meal will be healthy, so I don’t feel as guilty.
Give us a sample of a typical eating day for you?
- Pre WOD: Lunch Meat and handful of Almonds (Protein/Fat) or a protein bar (if I’m lazy)
- Post WOD: hard boiled egg and 1/2 a sweet potato (Protein/Carb)
- Breakfast: 3 eggs (cooked in coconut oil), 3 slices of turkey bacon (I love me some bacon), some sort of fruit (seasonal/depending on my mood)
- Snack: Apples and Peanut Butter (I should be using Almond butter, but I am only human)
- Lunch: Romaine Salad with cranberries, almonds, and chicken (or what ever meat I have available)
- Snack: Greek Yogurt with Almonds
- Dinner: Chicken, Veggies, Avocados (Protein, Carb, Fat)
- Snack: Lunch meat
I also belong to a dinner club. Two of my friends and myself prepare 3 meals each and leave it at the gym every Monday. The meals have to be Paleo. This ensures we have a minimum of 3 Paleo dinners a week plus leftovers.
How do you deal with treats? What is your philosophy?
I say I am Paleo-esque because there are some things I never took out of my diet.
For example, I eat Greek yogurt (dairy) and I occasionally have cheese with my omelet in the mornings. I generally follow the rules of no grains, bread, pasta, rice, or sugar (I do have sugar, but really watch my intake).
If I want to eat a piece of bread I do. I refuse to be on a diet. I choose to eat healthy instead.
What are 3 habits that you do consistently regardless of the chaos that may be going on in other areas of your life?
- Workouts: They are an important part of my life now. In order for me to maintain my happiness and to have my family life continue to flow as well as it now does, I have to have my ME time. My husband now has his time too (I am SO excited he is finally on board with fitness and healthy eating. He is on his own journey right now.)
- Breakfast: This is a MUST for me. I am always hungry and this really get’s my body going and ready for the day.
- Have food with me: I can’t allow my body to hit “Starvation” mode. I strive to keep my body in a “Zone.” I feel crappy when I am not fueled properly. I always have food on me. They make lunch bags now that look like purses. If I get stuck somewhere, I can simply grab my snacks.
Talk about community and how you use it to build accountability into your program.
Having a community of people is the key to success. I not only benefited from having the Crossfit and TOPS community, but I got involved as well. I am a Chapter Leader at TOPS and I am now Level 1 Crossfit Certified.
I can now pay it forward. I have made healthy living WHO I AM.
Our Crossfit Family does activities all the time. We go white water rafting, hiking, participate in fitness events, organize fitness fundraisers, have girls/guys night outs, etc. I have 125 or more people that hold me accountable. I have 16 WONDERFUL ladies that hold me accountable at TOPS. Then I get blessed with situations like this, that allow me to share my story. How can I ever go back? 
What indicators do you use to measure your progress?
I still use the scale once a week, but mostly I gauge my progress by how my clothes fit. If my pants are tight, it’s time to change the diet and activity again.
What does a typical week of workouts look like?
- Monday: Crossfit WOD in AM then Endurance WOD PM
- Tuesday: Crossfit WOD
- Wednesday: Crossfit WOD
- Thursday: Crossfit WOD maybe PM Endurance WOD (depending on how body feels. Got to listen to her)
- Friday: Crossfit WOD
- Saturday: Long Distance Run or Crossfit WOD
- Sunday: Rest
Some weeks I take one day of rest and some I take 2. I listen to my body. This week I rested 3 days in a row. I was beat.
How Paleo do you need to be to make this work?
I am not sure if you are familiar with the “Zone” concept. I try to stick to “Blocks.” So if I am a 13 block person it would be broken down like this.
- 3 Blocks of Protein/Fat/Carb for breakfast
- 3 Blocks of Protein/Fat/Carb for lunch
- 3 Blocks of Protein/Fat/Carb for dinner
- 1 block each snack (total 2 a day)
[Note: A block=1 macro-nutrient. So in the omelet picture above, she has two blocks covered; protein (eggs) and fat (avocado)]
How do you motivate yourself on days when you are just not into it?
My Dad taught me the 5 minute rule. Give it 5 minutes. If you still don’t want to, then stop. To be honest, I look forward to my WODs. That 
means I have an opportunity to get better. Plus I look forward to coaching or socializing with my Crossfit family. It’s not just a gym, it’s a fellowship.
What blogs have been big influencers?
- everydaypaleo.com
- zone
- crossfithendersonville.com (we post a lot of recipes and nutrition information)
My biggest personal influences are Lindsey McDuffie (Coach/Owner of Crossfit Hendersonville), Billy and Jessica Shelton (Coaches/Spiritual Mentors), and my family.
[Dean-o-rant: No Being Primal!! This is an outrage!! I'm taking my blog and I'm going home.] 
Kristy and the Family
Talk about your struggles now as compared to when you first started.
My struggle now is maintaining. I have gained 3 pounds over the past few weeks and I have to analyze where I am going wrong. I discovered that I was eating a lot of fruit (sugars) and not as much protein. I am going to fine tune that and see if I can get some changes.
I am also beefing up my water intake again. I got a little lax. This is something I have to do for the rest of my life. It stinks sometimes, but considering the alternative, it’s well worth it.
What are some of the misconceptions people have in this space?
There is a misconception that there is a quick fix. There is NOT. I put in 22 months and my blood, sweat, and tears and I will have to continue to do this for the rest of my life.
What are 5 uncommon lessons you would want people to walk away with that they could apply to their journey right now?
1. Love (your) GOD: This was not my first rule in the beginning, but when I allowed Jesus back in my heart, I started loving myself and the rest fell into place.
2. Love yourself: If you don't love and take care of yourself, how can you possibly take care of your family. Once I started doing this and believing it, things started to fall into place.
3. Don't diet: I don't diet. I instead choose to live a healthy eating lifestyle. Diets are a temporary solution to a permanent problem. I have slowly changed my "diet" over the past few years. I am still a work in progress. For me to say I am "strict" Paleo only sets me up for failure. I choose to do the best I can by living healthy.
4. Accountability, Accountability, Accountability: Surround yourself with like-minded people. When I discovered Crossfit Hendersonville, that was my answer. There are over 150 members who are 110% into being healthy.
They have watched me transform and there is NO WAY I CAN QUIT. If I miss a workout, I get 100 phone calls or texts.
When we socialize, we go to places that serve healthy food, share recipes, etc. When we food share, it's healthy. There is no way for me to fail with my Crossfit Family.
5. Share your story: If you share your story, you can inspire others. Many tell me that I have inspired them. I feel blessed to know that.
My Dad, who is 62, has been following in my footsteps and has lost 70 pounds and is in the best shape of his life. He eats a Zoleo (Zone/Paleo) type diet. He shares his story, and he has inspired many.
Kristy and her dad
What are your goals moving forward?
My goal is to get stronger and leaner. I want to be in the “Lean” category on the body fat charts. I have 3% to go. I have to decide when I want to get strict and just do it.
I also want to share my story and help others succeed and reach their goals. I love being a coach at Crossfit because it has blessed me with so many wonderful people that I get to see as they move forward on their journey.
We all have a journey. What’s yours?
Kristy
PS...Don't forget Kristy will be responding to all comments and questions so give the gurl some love and pick her brain if you think she can help.
PSS...BONUS: I did a great interview (shameless self promotion) with Abel James of Fat Burning Man yesterday. Very cool dude. Here is what we covered in our talk...
- Why I fired the health and fitness “experts” and went on to lose 40 pounds
- Advice and tips for Paleo beginners
- How both Abel and I are secretly embarrassed to have cheesy, half-naked pictures of ourselves all over the internet
- How to get zero-pack abs (that's a joke, but that is what I started with)
- Mark Sisson’s carbohydrate curve
- How Tim Ferris screwed everything up
- And why I would make a terrible Batman
You can find the interview at the link below. BE PREPARED TO BE ENTERTAINED!
Click that link--->My awesome interview
Kristy, congratulations! This is truly inspiring stuff. Just more proof that Paleo WORKS! Great post, Dean…. and those meals look delicious.
Thank You Abel. I hope to help change lives like mine was changed.
This:
“So I went to my friends and asked if I could clean their houses and wash their cars to pay for my membership so I could continue.”
This is what it takes to see it through. 110% focus and dedication. Great job, Kristy. And so great that you’re all on board in the family, now.
If anyone tells you cleaning house is not a workout in itself, they are lieing…LOL. I kept my eye on the prize. Thank you Alison.
This is a true statement! I clean houses for a living and I cross fit as well. Strong as an ox. Thanks for the inspiring story.
I LOVE your Avatar! LOL!
And you are sooooo right about the housecleaning WOD! (CrossFit has helped me do my cleaning better with less aches and pains, for sure.)
I see myself so much in your story. Reading about your transformation gives me hope that I can change my body and my mind if I just stick with it every day. Thank you for sharing
Go get it girl!
Great story. Thanks for sharing.
I’m at about 60 – 70% of my goal and been stuck at it for a long time. Have been Crossfitting for a year. More recently have spent 2 months reducing carbs and trying a more strict paleo plan the last month but not seeing any results yet. Been wondering if I should increase my cardio training. What distance do you run and when you do 2 wods in a day what are they like? What does your endurance wod consist of?
Thanks,
Teresa
If you are not seeing results,you may want to check and see if you are eating enough. I know it sounds funny, but if you are active, such as a Crossfitter, you may be burning off your fuel. Check that and the sugars (like fruits..same thing happened to me). As for my endurance WODs…Most often I row, spin, or swim, so I can salvage my legs for my long runs on the weekends. I am training for a half right now. An example of an endurance WOD would be 3 x (100m + 200m + 400m), resting the time it took to cover each leg. If it took me 45 seconds to run 100m, then I rest that before I start the 200m. You can do this running/spinning/rowing/swimming. crossfitendurance.com is a great web site. Good Luck Teresa!!!!
thanks again for sharing your story and taking time to answer questions.
You look great! Success stories like yours never cease to inspire me. Keep up the awesome work.
Thank you
Dean,
Great interview with Abel. Your enthusiasm, not just for paleo but especially for helping others learn what works for themselves, is what keeps me readily reading your blog. Rock on.
Hey Ryan, thanks man. i actually listened to it a few times and must admit I quite liked it myself….and I appreciate the comment about my enthusiasm to help others!!
Kristy, I’m curious about your height.
Also, wondering about your macro-nutrient ratios.
Excellent job, keep up the good work!
Warmly,
Rachel
5’9″, 234 lbs, 13 months postpartum, Goal: 185 or less & more fit
Rachel…I am 5 foot 6 inches. The best way I can help you with the macro-nutrience is to go to zone.com. It breaks down what a blog is, how you determine your blocks, etc. I hate diets and I hate numbers. In the beginning, you are required to weigh your food and I never did. After Coaching others on ZOne/Paleo, I know by heart how many block each food is. I “Guesstimate” and it seems to work.
Zone.com is a great place to start. You can eat paleo and zone…Zoleo. I hope this helped.
Thanks!
I’m WAPF-Primal myself (Weston A. Price Foundation plus Nora Gedgaudas’ Primal recommendations, plus a few other tweaks of my own). I eat about 70-75% fat (calories), 15-20% protein, and 10% carbs. If find that the more fat I eat, the less I eat overall, and the better I feel. I was just looking for comparison.
Zone used to be 30-30-40 (can’t remember exactly which macronutrient was which, but I know fat wasn’t 40%, lol). Now it looks even more lopsided, way too lowfat for me. I find that lots of food fats (coconut oil, grass-fed butter/ghee, fat found on high quality meat, bacon drippings, high quality olive oil) is crucial. Glad it worked for you!
Awesome job Kristy! Got to love the Tops family!!! Best wishes for your continued success.
I love my TOPS family here in TN and CA.
Wow! Congratulations! You are an inspiration!!!
Thank you Carla
Congratulations Kristy! What an inspiring story…thank you for sharing it.
Thank you Kimberly. This means the world to me, that I have been given a forum to share. If I could bottle up how I feel and give it away, I would.
What a amazing story, Great job Kristy!!! This will be me next year, that is my plan for the next year.
Keep your eye on the prize. YOU CAN DO IT!
Kristy, I am so proud of you and all you’ve accomplished! From the moment I met you I knew you were a fighter:) Congrats on everything you’ve accomplished. I truly believe the best is yet to come. You’re an inspiration!
Love you Libbs
Congratulations Krista from South Africa, truly an inspiring story. Well done.
Thank you
Kirsty,
I’m so impressed by how much you have achieved in less than two years. To battle such an overwhelming list of illnesses, financial difficulties and lose so much weight is amazing.
I’m interested to know if you think your depression was caused/made worse by eating wheat?
- Isabella
I am sure that my unhealthy diet had somthing to so with my depression. Eating wheat was a factor in my sugar highs and crashes. A healthy diet is paramount when it comes to mental health too. When you eat the sugars, such as grains, pasta, rice, etc, it causes a spike in your insulin (hyperinsulinism). You blood sugar goes up and you are feeling like a rock star, then it goes down and you feel like crap (sluggish, achy, and maybe even “starving” again.) By mantaining a “Zone”, you never let your body get that way, thus leaving you energized and clear minded. Try playing around with your diet. For example: Give up wheat for a month, then bring it back in your diet, so you can see how it makes you feel. Then try giving up dairy for a month and bring it back. This will allow you to see what works for you. You might find that you feel worse when you bring it back. Its a slow process, but once you are dialed in, you can run with it (because you have energy now
I am excited to share this story with my family and friends who say they can’t do crossfit because they are overweight or who don’t think they can change their diets. This is truly and amazing and inspiring story!
Anything is possible if you believe it is.
Kristy, it has been a joy to witness your transformation these past three years. I recall the WOD in the snow – you were there. I kept thinking “this girl may kill herself”. Now I can kill myself just trying to keep up with you. You are indeed an inspiration.
Lot’s of Love to you Ben. You are an animal.
Wow My friend..you are awesome..I cryed and laught..word canit explain on how I feel and how proud I am of you..you need to wiggle wiggle wiggle…love you so much..thanks for that wonderful story!!!!!
Wiggle Wiggle Wiggle….LOL…Love you Terrie.
Thanks for sharing your story Kristy! Very inspiring — esp. in that you are still tweaking … I’ve lost 70 pounds — eating healthy and exercising — but still am struggling to lose the last 15-20 and lean up. I’ll just keep tweaking!
It’s all about Trial and Error. Things happen in life, our activities change. We need to make sure we fuel the machine properly.
Okay Kristy, I’ve been saying it and saying it. Now seeing you inspires me to do something now. Great job girl! We all miss you here in SD!
Mallari
WOW…Jerry, I so miss you guys too. You will always be in my heart Homie. Now get off you butt and move Sucka…lol
Kristy, I love love LOVE your awareness that going ‘strict’ paleo was setting yourself up for failure. Every time I inch towards saying ‘paleo’, I spark a binge cycle; I’m sure others feel this way and were as inspired as I am by your ability to make small, sustainable changes towards being healthy even without whole30-esque challenges. Keep it up!
Everyone is different. I have to be in total control. I did not want the “Diet” to control me. Keep on keeping on.
Congrats on the great results from all the hard work. I have been struggling on my journey of fitness for about 4 years…and finally woke up to the world of Paleo/Primal. So far I am down about 8 pounds in three weeks. I hope to have similar results as you do but I know it will take hard work and I am ready for it. It is just so inspiring to see stories like yours! THANKS for sharing it!
Oustanding and insightful interview guys.
Kristy, the whole story shows in your face in the before\after photo. I can feel the satisfaction, sense of accomplishment and happiness in that smile.
Great question about the 5 uncommon lessons Dean and every answer is spot on.
I’m learning more and more that community is such a factor toward success. I have some folks that I’m sharing your story with.
Congratulations and Thanks.
No, Thank you. Support from friends, family, and even strangers (that word is so impersonal, sorry) are paramount to my success. We support each other. Social networking ROCKS. It really has helped me. Not only for my health, but being a parent, with my faith, etc. I have been blessed more that I could ever imagine.
Hi Kristy: Congratulations on your success and acomplishment. I want to be you;) I am new to Paleo and am excited to start crossfit next week. I am hoping this will be my answer. I have been doing triathlons and watching what I eat but the lbs are just not coming off. I love doing thriathlons but I think I need a change as my training is not showing me results. Can I ask- did you ever track your calories? I am scared not to count calories but my cousin who is paleoesque says I need to eat more calories to start losing weight. So I am eating Paleo but still try to stick to a 1200 calorie diet. Just wondering what worked for you as far as counting or not counting calories. So happy for you and continued success on your life long journey.
Hey Michelle..I’m am going to jump in for a moment and say this. I think your cousin is trying to help, but you can’t simply tell someone to eat more calories to lose weight…you have to think of this like a big puzzle…many many pieces go into the final solution…now is it possible you are not eating a lot…it is…but not necesarrily…that’s something you will need to test and work out on your own.
That said, I tracked everything I ate for the first year doing this…I was not counting calories…but I did find out what is an average intake for me (2000 to 2200)…you need to find out what your threshold is as well (without going hungry).
So my question to you is how did you come to 1200? Is there a method to what you are doing or simple guess work?
Hi Dean: Thanks so much for your chimming in. So I am not really sure where I got the initial 1200 calories because I have been trying to lose weight for so long now. But the last place I got the 1200-1300 calories is when I got my bodybugg and I inputed that I wanted to lose 2 lbs a week. After inputing all my data, basically age, height, weight it suggested that I eat those amounts of calories. It worked for a short time and then I just stopped losing. I have lost a total of 25 lbs in about 2 years but now I keep gaing/losing the same 3-5 lbs. I work out 5-6 days a week. I train for half marathons and triathlons and still no weight lose. I figure I must me doing something wrong because I really do not think I eat bad at all- i truley consider myself a healthy eater with occaisional cheats here and there;( Anyways, my cousin introduced me to Paleo about 6-8 months ago and I decide 2 weeks ago I am all in. I need to do something differnt. We recently decided that we would go visit a crossfit class and we loved it. Hope I did not blab too much. I truly am appreciative that you asked. Any help would be truly appreciated.
I refuse to count calories. It’s a “diet” then. Once you are involved in the Crossfit culture, you will learn more about Paleo (I would imagine). One thing you need to realize is….You ARE and ATHLETE. You need to fuel that Machine, know as your body. Yes, you can over eat, but that is where you can learn to Zone you Paleo Diet. Zoleo. ZOne.com can tell you how much you need to eat, based on your weight, measurements, and activity level. Most woman are 12-14 blocks a day. You split the blocks up during the day. I guess it’s like counting calories, if you think about it. You will also learn that you need to fuel before a WOD and after a WOD. You need to keep your body in the ZONE. Don’t be frustrated that it seem overwhelming at first…and it is. Just be patient, be willing to learn, experiment, and do your research. You WILL find you Mojo. Good luck.
Also…1200 calories is NOT ENOUGH FOOD. Fuel that precious machine girl.
Dear Kristy,
Thank you for sharing your story and thank you for being honest about not being “100%” paleo…I struggle with this since I’m also a work in progress and I’m slowly figuring out what works for me. You are a wonderful example that I will happily follow
xoxo
Ada
Kristy, Mom and Dad are so proud of you for what you have accomplished. You stuck with it and accomplished your goals. You are an inspiration to the both of us. We love you very much.
I LOVE YOU MOM AND DAD
Great job, Kristy !!!! Proud to have you as a great niece..
Thanks
Congratulations! Great story and I can’t wait to share this with my clients! So happy for you!
Wow..Thanks…share away. I hope to make a difference in at least one persons life.
Hi, question did you take blood pressure readings before and during, just curious if there are bp changes during this diet, thanks kristy!
Yes I did. I had been hospitalized with high blood pressure,when I was pregnant. It was related to my emergency C section. I am now 120/80.
really inspiring story Kristy, well done.
I loved reading your story. Thank you for the inspiration. You are amazing.
Kristy- I feel GREAT on strict Paleo but am GAINING weight so fast
I’ve gone from 189lbs at 5’5” and after a few months on Paleo I can lift more, but am 204lbs!! I think I need to go lowfat (gasp!)? Egg whites and lean meats maybe? I know lowfat isn’t healthy but I’m at my witts end. My clothes don’t fit any more so I know it’s not just muscle. I ate grains for the last 3 days and literally ‘deflated’ and lost 3lbs. Just wondering if you gained any fat in the beginning and if you experienced any of this?
Michelle…There is a good chance you are eating too much fat. The same thing happened to me. One way to control your intake is to log on to Zone.com and find out how many “Blocks” you are. Then they try and stick to the blocks and stay in zone. I myself did cut back on my fats. I also discovered that the Paleo recipes have a lot of fat in it. I reduce it down a little. I make sure I get the healthy fats in my diet, but monitor and control it. As for it being muscle mass…I was at the same weight (161) for over a year. I started a new strength program and gained 3 pounds over 4 months, but went down .5% body fat. If you are not losing body fat, then you need to look at your fat intake. Watch out for those yummy almonds…They got me….lol..They are so easy to eat, but can go overboard. Hope this answered your question.
Kristy- great advice, thank you! And congrats! You look GREAT and are such an inspiration!
Kristy, congratulations again, girl! I am a member of Kristy’s TOPS group, so it has been our pleasure to see her in person make this transformation. It is almost unbelievable; she is like a whole new person. All like us who are fighting the battle of the bulge all the time know what a phenomenal feat Kristy has accomplished. Keep up the good work, friend.
Thanks Nancy…Lot’s of love to you.
Awesome inspirational story! I can never get enough inspiration & motivation.
Thanks!
This article gives me such hope! I’ve struggles with my weight since I was a child and once got up to 400 pounds. I had a gastric bypass and lost 200 pounds. Before that, however I had tried the diet drugs Phen-Fen (which didn’t work) and ended up with Pulmonary Hypertension. It’s like having high blood pressure in your lung and there’s no cure. I had a life saving double lung transplant in June of ’09. Since I tried every diet in the world I’m definitely the poster child of what not to do. I’ve been researching Paleo for a little while now and it seems so clear but I’m still having a hard time believing it. The successes are just so amazing though. I lost a lot of weight after transplant but because of the meds Im back up to 230 and now I have 47% body fat. It just feels so impossible that I’ll ever get this weight off. In my mind I’m a strong, healthy, fit woman. I want/ need to be that person. Now I just need to transform the outside. If anyone out there can be my support I’d greatly appreciate it!! Kristy, you are my idol…lol! Really, such a true inspiration. Thank you for helping me see a light at the end of the tunnel!
Hi, Kristy. You have inspired me, also. I tried the Zone diet several years ago without and good results. I actually gained weight on it. (Sigh.) Since then, I have been diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease, had a pituitary tumor removed, and eventually had both my adrenal glands taken out to control the high cortisol. I’ve lost over 100 pounds since then just by controlling the cortisol. I now need to do something to lose the rest and tone my body. Cushing’s causes muscle wasting, and I wasn’t able to exercise before. Now I can. My daughter, age 27, is eating Paleo and has encouraged me to do the same. I have been doing that for only a few weeks, but already feel the difference. Thank you for inspiring me to continue. Life is a journey, and I love the concept of not dieting, but eating right.
Thank you SO MUCH for sharing your story!!! I am about to attend my first CrossFit class today and am terrified! This is exactly what I needed to read today to give me the courage to get through this.
Thank you, thank you, thank you. What a true inspiration!!
I have done good doing paleo and then I slip up. Sweets are my biggest problem
also finding me time is hard. I have 3 young kids and a deployed spouse. I love working out but I am not always up for it.my biggest problem with exercising is just not really knowing what exercises to do each day without over doing the same muscles. Also if I had friend to do everything with it would be nice to. I think it’s great that you accomplished your goal even know it took almost two years. It’s hard not seeing results right away.I’m hoping to lose 49 pounds by the end of the year!
Great story girl! I’ve been looking for stories like this online. I’m beginning my Paleo journey and need some motivation to get me through the rough first few weeks. Thanks for sharing!
Kristy,
i a in the same boat you started with. i am finishing up my 2nd pregnancy and weighing in at 205lbs with 30 days to go.(my dr’s ideal weight for me is 125lbs)so after he gets here i know i have a lot of work ahead of me. i am friends with a few crossfit go-ers and they have great enthusiasm for their fitness. I cant wait to start the same journey and get back down to where i need to be. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK! iM SO HAPPY YOU MADE THE DECISION (if you didnt know the word decide means to “kill all other option”) and made it happen!
Amazing transformation! You worked really hard to get where you are and it shows. I have been reading about the Paleo diet over the last couple of days and ran across your story. I am interested in the Crossfit workout you talked about. I live about 30 minutes from Hendersonville. Was wondering if you could send me an email on the approximate costs of doing the Crossfit workouts. Thank you!
Thank you, Kristy!
I was given the link to this interview by a friend who found you inspiring, but it was so much more good advice than I expected!! Thank you for admitting it isn’t quick and it takes perseverance. At 50, after a variety of efforts, I love to hear someone give the distinction between dieting and lifestyle change — so, so true! God bless you and your family for sharing this story as encouragement. And best wishes for your next 3%, I’m sure you’ll make it, just a matter of time! Thank you very much!
This is so awesome! I have been doing Paleo-esque and CrossFit for 6 weeks now and have seen such great improvements. It’s only 10-12 lbs, but way more noticeable difference physically. I feel stronger and know that i’ve gained a ton of muscle too. It works!
You said:
“So I went to my friends and asked if I could clean their houses and wash their cars to pay for my membership so I could continue.”
If you would have told me this, before you even started.. I would have KNOWN that you would have succeeded.
Determination and focus is the best key to use when anyone is trying to lose weight.
Keep up the good work.
Regards,
Alexander Brown
totalhealthfix.com
PS. A massive congratulations to your success.
Loved reading this! Thank you for your honesty. I have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia and have been looking to manage my pain and symptoms through diet and exercise and stumbled along to Paleo and happend to find this success story. I am excited to see that you have had success in losing weight and that you have found a method that makes you feel better without have to be too extreme and still incorporate some of your favorite things. Thank you!!!!
Sincerely,
Kristie
Kristy! I’m so proud of you! You are such an inspiration. Cross Fit is SO expensive. How do you stay motivated?
Cauliflower Rice!!!!! I have been doing Paleo for a few months now and lost 50 pounds, but I have missed my rice! Definitely going to try this out!
Your story’s inspirational. Next step for me will be adding in some crossfit and running
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Wow, what an inspiring personal story. You encrouage me to continue on! Thank you.
Your before and after pictures give me hope. I way 240 and and concerned that when I start to lose the weight I will be left with saggy skin. Is there a way to combat that as you lose weight. And also what is a good exercise to get rid on the flapping batwing arms lol. Thanks in advance.
Thank you. I have tried a no carb diet and it is exactly that….a diet. It is a tempoorary solution to a permanent problem. You need your carbs, such as fruits and veggies to provide energy. Whether you are active or not, your body NEEDs fuel. Thank you again and good luck.