Real-Life Weight Loss Story: Starting your weight loss journey is not only about following a specific diet, or hitting the gym but also about consistency, resilience and keeping yourself motivated throughout the journey. Weight loss is never a cakewalk, especially when you have health problems like diabetes, hormonal problems, or any other health-related issues. It further hampers your weight loss journey as the results are really slow. However, all these obstacles did not stop 32-year-old Sowmya Narayanan from starting her journey.
Battling multiple health issues, including type 1 diabetes, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), and limited mobility in her right hand, Sowmya found a way to take control of her health. Within a short period of time, she was able to lose over 9 kgs! Here’s how she turned her life around.
Sowmya’s weight loss journey began during a low phase of her life. With multiple health issues weighing her down, both physically and mentally, she struggled to find a sustainable approach to fitness. “I have Type 1 diabetes, limited mobility in my right hand, and PCOS. These challenges made it hard for me to lead a healthy lifestyle,” she shares.
That’s when her sister introduced her to Cult. After exploring several options, Sowmya found the Cult Transform program to be the ideal fit, particularly due to her unique physical limitations. "The personal trainers, nutritionists, and mindset coaches at Cult tailored a plan keeping in mind my needs and limited mobility,” Sowmya said.
The results were almost immediate. In just two months, Sowmya noticed significant changes—not only did she lose weight, but her overall health improved. She dropped from 65 kg to 55 kg, and her HbA1c levels, a key indicator of blood sugar control, fell from 11 to 5.4. “This was a life-changing improvement for someone who had been managing Type 1 diabetes since ninth grade,” she said.
What Inspired You To Embark On This Journey?
When asked about what inspired her to embark on this journey, Sowmya points to the repeated setbacks she has faced in life. “It wasn’t just about weight loss. It was about reclaiming my health after years of dealing with diabetes, seizures, PCOS, and limited mobility,” she said. Her determination to not let these conditions dictate her life was her biggest motivator.
For Sowmya, her family also played a major role in keeping her spirits high. “My family members, especially my family doctor, along with the coaches at Cult, kept me motivated,” she shares. “A significant factor was also my move to Bengaluru. It gave me a fresh start, and the environment really supported my transformation.”
What Were Some Of The Biggest Challenges You Faced Along The Way?
No transformation is without its hurdles, and for Sowmya, the journey was filled with unique challenges. Her right-hand abduction, which limited her mobility from birth, made vigorous exercises difficult. Moreover, being a Type 1 diabetic required her to be cautious with her diet and ensure that her blood sugar levels remained stable.
However, the tailored plan from Cult made it possible for her to achieve her goals despite these limitations. “They adapted everything to fit my needs—whether it was modifying exercises or creating a diet plan that worked for my condition,” she says.
Diet And Exercise Regimen Followed During Your Transformation
Sowmya’s diet became an essential part of her transformation. She adopted healthy habits such as drinking chia seed water in the morning, reducing the intake of white foods like rice and bread, completely avoiding fried foods, and significantly cutting down on sugar. She also included more salads in her meals and practised portion control.
Her exercise regimen was equally mindful of her limitations, focusing on yoga, walking, and full-body mobility exercises. These gentle yet effective routines allowed her to stay active without putting undue strain on her body.
How Has Your Life Changed Since Achieving Your Weight Loss Goals?
Today, Sowmya weighs 54 kg, and her health has improved drastically. "I feel fitter and more confident,” she shares. One of the most rewarding outcomes has been the resolution of her PCOS, leading to regular menstrual cycles. “I never thought this would be possible, but my PCOS is no more,” she says.
Her blood sugar levels have also stabilized, preventing further damage to her organs and improving her overall quality of life. “My diabetes is much more under control now. I’ve managed to bring down my HbA1c levels, which is critical for long-term health,” she adds.
What Advice Do You Have For Others Who Are Looking To Embark On A Similar Transformation Journey?
When asked what advice she would give to others looking to transform their health, Sowmya emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and a willingness to put in the effort. "You have to believe in yourself and be willing to reach new heights, no matter what challenges you face," she advises.
She encourages others to seek professional help if needed, as she found her support system at Cult Transform. “Sometimes, you need experts who understand your unique needs and can guide you accordingly. That made all the difference for me.”
Now, with her fitness levels improved and her confidence restored, Sowmya is looking forward to continuing her journey and inspiring others to take the first step toward their own health transformations.