PICTURES: Easter Ross Slimming World weight-loss star is gaining again – and here's why she's delighted!
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AN Invergordon slimmer who has lost more than six-and-a-half stone has started to gain it again – but it’s good news as she is expecting her second baby.
Donna Russell (32) said she has always struggled to keep her weight in check, but is determined to stay healthy for her baby, due in May – and to inspire other women.
Ms Russell admitted seeing her first pregnancy as a green light to eat her favourite takeaway food, resulting in her first dramatic weight loss slipping away.
The mum, who hopes to get married in October, after two attempts thwarted by the Covid crisis, wants to tell other women that maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy can be done.
She said: “We sadly lost a baby after an ectopic pregnancy, and I had always struggled with my weight. The hospital told me that it would help my chances of being pregnant if I lost weight. So I did. I lost a lot of weight to try and help with the conception of our first baby, and after trying for a long time, I did finally fall pregnant with Marshall, who is now 15 months.
“When I got pregnant I saw it as a green light to eat whatever I wanted. My partner and I were having takeaways most nights and the weight just started to go back on again.”
She got back on the Slimming World plan, and shed six-and-a-half stone. Then she fell pregnant and again gained.
She said: “When I started to gain I was really disappointed, because I know how it affects my energy levels, and I am less able to get about – so I decided to go back to Slimming World and find out if there was anything I could do. And of course there was.
“I am now 14 stone and 3lbs, but I am healthy and I am 26 weeks pregnant. I know that I have my eating under control, and I know that it is good not only for me, but also for my baby.”
She had already bought a wedding dress when she was heavier – and may now have an excuse to buy a new smaller outfit for the big day.
Stuart Malcolm, district development manager for Slimming World, said: “Significant weight losses are often associated with ‘quick- fix’ diets or restrictive, faddy plans. However, we can see from our research it is possible to see big results on the scales by following a healthy, balanced eating plan.
“Donna’s journey now is about healthy habits during her pregnancy – rather than losing weight. We’re so very proud of her success.”
