Buddy Valastro, the renowned "Cake Boss," has recently shared his weight loss journey, revealing how he shed nearly 40 pounds. His transformation was motivated by a combination of factors, including a hand injury and a desire to improve his overall well-being.
The Wake-Up Call: A Gruesome Hand Injury
In September 2020, Valastro experienced a severe hand injury while at his home. His right hand became trapped in a bowling pinsetter, resulting in a metal rod impaling his hand three times. This accident required five surgeries to repair the damage.
Recognizing the Need for Change
During his recovery, Valastro realized he had developed unhealthy eating habits and felt sluggish. He admitted to overeating, a pattern that had worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. "During COVID, I gained so much weight," Valastro told Fox News Digital. "I woke up one day and… I didn’t feel right. I was just too heavy."
The Path to Weight Loss: A Year-Long Transformation
Valastro embarked on a weight loss journey that took approximately one year. He adopted a strategy that involved portion control, intermittent fasting, and increased water consumption.
Portion Control: Learning to Eat Less
Growing up in an Italian household, Valastro was accustomed to eating large portions until he felt completely full. However, he recognized the need to change this habit. "My problem was that I was doing the opposite of what I was supposed to do. I never ate breakfast. I would have a cup of coffee, and by lunch I was starving and scarf down two slices of pizza." He began practicing portion control, which initially left him feeling hungry. Over time, his body adjusted, and he started feeling better. Valastro told People magazine that he now eats "one or two" large spoonfuls of pasta instead of "four big scoops."
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Intermittent Fasting: A Strategic Approach
Valastro incorporated intermittent fasting into his routine. This eating pattern involves cycling between periods of eating and voluntary fasting on a regular schedule.
Hydration: The Key to Curbing Appetite
Valastro emphasized the importance of drinking plenty of water. "I drank a lot of water and did intermittent fasting," he said. "But now it’s [been] about a year and a half, two years, and I feel good. And I’m at a weight that I like - so thank God." He aims to drink seven or eight bottles of water daily, which helps him feel full and reduces his food intake. "If you drink a lot of water, you can’t eat as much," he told the outlet. "So it’s kind of just changing your habits, and you make it your job."
Optavia Program
Buddy Valastro also shared that he used the Optavia program. "A lot of people have been asking me how I’ve slimmed down lately so I just wanted to share that I’ve used the Optavia program. Im not being paid to say this and it should be noted that I think every body is different and you should do whatever suits you but this is what I’m doing and I’m very happy with the results so far!" His brothers in law recommended Optavia, which involves eating six small meals daily.
Maintaining a Balanced Lifestyle
Valastro acknowledged that he doesn't completely deprive himself of his favorite foods. He believes in moderation and allows himself to indulge occasionally. "Listen, I’m never going to live in a world where I’m not going to have a cookie or a slice of pizza," he explained. "I mean, that’s just not living to me. But I don’t have to eat a pie. So if I order a pizza at lunchtime, it’s a slice."
He also admitted to "cheating" on the weekends or when he's away, but he quickly adjusts his eating habits to maintain his weight. "When I’m away, then I’ll cheat. I’ll gain two, three pounds, and then I take it off. So I’m just trying to maintain [now]."
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A Focus on Feeling Better
Valastro emphasized that his weight loss journey was primarily motivated by a desire to feel better, not just to look good. "I’m not doing it because I’m trying to look good, I’m doing it to feel better. I feel so much better now.; But when you do lose weight, you feel good, you do look better, and you know, your clothes fit," he told People. "I’m not the sensitive type-people could call me fat, they could call me skinny. I don’t really care. I did it for me. Even at my heaviest I was always comfortable with myself.”
Inspiring Others
Valastro's weight loss journey has inspired many of his fans. He hopes to encourage others to adopt healthier habits and prioritize their well-being.
New Ventures
Viewers will notice that the 46-year-old now looks slimmer. Valastro is hosting "Legends of the Fork," which will follow him as he travels across the country in search of renowned American restaurants. He’s also starring on "Buddy Valastro’s Cake Dynasty," which chronicles his family’s goals to expand Carlo’s Bake Shop.
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