Transformation of the Day: Lane Larue shares how she lost 135 pounds. Her motivation? She was tired of feeling down and sick all the time. Also, she is determined to see her beloved son’s milestones and achievements as she grows.
Social Media
Instagram: @lane__larue
What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
In late 2022, I was feeling down and sick all the time. No energy at all. I considered having a gastric sleeve weight loss surgery revision, but I just didn’t want to go through all that again and fail again. After all, I only lost a total of 50 lbs after surgery. (look up genetic weight “set points.”)
I found a weight management doctor. He did genetic testing and determined that a GLP-1 inhibitor would be my best option for successful weight loss up to surgery. I was pre-diabetic with hypertension and mild sleep apnea at my highest: 375 pounds. I avoided surgery and lost more weight than I ever with the injections.
My main goal and anchor throughout has been my son. I’m so motivated to be here for him, to see all his milestones and achievements. Beyond that, I truly and finally wanted a better quality of life for myself. I saw a light, and I followed it to therapy, working through my trauma related to food. That set the stage for a love affair with myself that led perfectly into my weight loss journey.
How did you change your eating habits?
I used Mounjaro/Zepbound. My insulin resistance improved so much with Mounjaro that they switched me to the WLS version, Zepound. My pre-diabetes is resolved. Hypertension resolved. I also do intermittent fasting daily and only eat between 3 pm and 7 pm. I drink LOTS OF WATER and take a full spectrum vitamin and mineral supplements.
My worst side effects are constipation, nausea in the first few days after the weekly shot (Zofran helps), itchiness at the sight of the injection, and occasional vomiting. Keep in mind that I HAVE ZERO SHAME ABOUT USING WEIGHT LOSS TOOLS. If it works for me, it works for me. Living lighter and longer is “natural” enough for me.
What is your workout routine?
I walk in my neighborhood and do low-impact workouts because I have severe knee joint damage due to years of carrying all the weight and previous falls. I am having a knee replacement surgery in December 2024 to increase my mobility and types of workouts.
How often did you work out?
I walk 3-4 times a week and 30-60 minutes a day. In bad weather, I do low-impact workouts on YouTube from home.
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
Starting Weight: 375
Current Weight: 240
What is your height?
I’m 5’5″.
When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
My journey began in February 2023, so it’s been one year and nine months.
I genuinely believe losing slower has trained my brain to eat less, naturally. It’s a metabolic process, but there’s also a brain component. It affects the pituitary gland and increases feelings of fullness. Even taking a break every once in a while for vacations or holiday periods (I like to eat and enjoy!), I never gain anything because the small portions and fasting are so normal to me now! Keep in mind that anyone who drops off of a weight loss routine will regain. There are some misconceptions regarding quick regain with injections. I’ve been on many diets, and it’s really a just discipline thing.
When did you have weight loss surgery?
I previously had WLS in 2014, and only lost 50 pounds after surgery. Multiple providers told me this is common with gastric sleeve and my BMI level. I started this latest journey at 375 pounds, the exact weight I started with for the sleeve. It was not a factor this time because my stomach was already compromised.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
I’ve learned I can lose weight however I see fit. I don’t need to do anything according to anyone else’s set timing or process. I know my body, and I’ve crafted my weight journey strictly around my life. And it worked! So I will stand beside it!
What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Don’t rush yourself. Set yourself up for success and not disappointment by avoiding comparing yourself to others. Don’t let anyone direct your path or shame your process. Focus only on YOUR ultimate goals and chase them with reckless abandon. It’s so worth it!