Gen Cohen, now 29, successfully maintained a significant weight loss for seven years after years of struggling with yo-yo dieting. In an interview with Business Insider, she shared her journey of adopting a sustainable approach to health and fitness.
Growing up in a small town in Connecticut, Cohen had a history of trying various fad diets since the age of 12. After gaining weight in college, she decided to make a change and embark on a different kind of fitness journey.
Cohen, a San Diego resident, revealed that she embraced a high-protein diet with a gentle calorie deficit while following the 80/20 principle. This approach allowed her to enjoy treats and alcohol in moderation without eliminating any specific food groups.
Despite facing challenges and not seeing immediate results, Cohen remained consistent. Over the course of a year, she lost 50 pounds and has successfully maintained her weight for the past seven years.
Reflecting on her earlier attempts at weight loss, Cohen acknowledged the negative impact of fad diets on her body image. It was her 21st birthday that served as a turning point. Shocked by her appearance in photos, she decided to make a lasting change.
Cohen chose to adopt a mindset of “loving herself towards healthy” rather than succumbing to the pressure of societal standards. She focused on a balanced diet, incorporating proteins and avoiding extreme restrictions. Meal-prepping became a crucial part of her routine, and she adopted the 80/20 principle, allowing herself flexibility without feeling deprived.
Despite not seeing any weight loss for the initial three months, Cohen persevered. She emphasized the importance of not being overly strict with the diet and exercising patience. Eventually, she lost 50 pounds over a year, marking the beginning of her successful weight maintenance journey.
Cohen, now a certified nutrition coach, addressed the challenges of moving into the maintenance phase. She experimented with finding the right balance to fuel her body while keeping her weight stable. Cohen emphasized the role of mindset and self-love in enjoying a variety of foods without guilt.
Over the years, Cohen incorporated strength training and regular walking into her routine, highlighting the significance of these activities in maintaining her overall well-being.
In conclusion, Gen Cohen’s story underscores the importance of adopting a sustainable and balanced approach to health and fitness, emphasizing self-love and patience in achieving long-term success.
