Sharifah, a mother of two, had always struggled with her weight. In her early 40s, she reached her heaviest at 109 kg. The stress of her desk job and busy family life led her to find comfort in food, while exercise was far from her routine.
Eventually, her health began to suffer—she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and depression. Even simple tasks like bending down to cut her toenails became difficult, making the reality of her situation impossible to ignore.
Sharifah’s doctor suggested weight-loss surgery, but the risks were too high. After her husband suffered two heart attacks and her daughter required lifelong care due to her intellectual disability, Sharifah was determined not to become a burden to her family. Instead, she chose a different path—a complete lifestyle change.
17 Months of Transformation
Sharifah’s journey began with a commitment to improve her life, not just lose weight. She hired a fitness coach who helped her with a simple exercise plan and a balanced diet. At first, it was tough—basic exercises felt like a mountain to climb. But after losing 4 kg in the first month, she was encouraged to keep going.
Over the next 17 months (1.5 years), Sharifah lost a total of 50 kg. Her transformation was about more than just the numbers on the scale. Her journey shows that it’s never too late to take charge of your own health.
Why Weight Loss Can Be Harder for Women?
Many women experience weight gain due to factors like pregnancy, hormonal changes, and menopause. These changes can affect metabolism and make it easier to gain weight, especially around the belly.
Women also often take on many roles—being a mother, partner, and worker—which leaves little time for self-care. When health is put on the back burner, it can be difficult to find the motivation and time to make a change.
Simple Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle
Inspired by Sharifah’s story? Here are some practical steps to help you on your own journey:
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Start Small and Set Realistic Goals
Begin with simple goals, like aiming to lose 0.5 kg a week or taking a 15-minute walk every day. Small changes add up and help build confidence.
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Move More, Even in Short Bursts
Going to the gym is a good start, However, you don’t necessarily have to spend hours at the gym. Instead, try these ideas:
- Short Workouts: High-intensity interval Training (HIIT) can be done in just 15-30 minutes and is great for burning fat.
- Daily Walks: A brisk 30-minute walk can improve your mood and metabolism.
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Eat Balanced, Not Restrictive
You don’t have to follow a strict diet to be healthy:
- Opt for Whole Foods: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your diet.
- Mindful Eating: Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness signals. Avoid eating just because you’re bored or stressed.
- Cut Back on Sugars: Too much sugar can make weight loss harder and affect your energy levels.
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Find Support
Whether it’s a fitness coach, a friend, or a group, having someone to share your progress and setbacks with can keep you motivated. It’s easier to stay on track when you’re not doing it alone.
Get Enough Sleep and Manage Stress
Try to sleep for 7-9 hours a night. Good sleep helps balance hormones that control hunger. Managing stress through simple practices like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can also make a big difference.
The Power of Self-Care for Women
Sharifah’s story emphasizes the importance of self-care as essential, not selfish. Women often prioritize others’ needs, leading to neglected health.
Her journey was about more than losing 50 kg; it was about reclaiming her life and setting a positive example for her children. Her experience shows that change is possible, no matter the starting point.
Watch the video here:
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
11 Years and 547kg Lighter: Khalid Shaari’s Incredible Weight Loss Journey
Taiwanese Man Granted Divorce After Wife Charges for Sex and Calls Him “Too Fat”
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