Weight loss is a deeply personal journey, often intertwined with emotional and physical challenges. Keith Turner's story exemplifies the power of dedication, self-reflection, and the transformative impact of a supportive relationship. This article delves into Keith Turner's weight loss journey, highlighting his struggles, motivations, and the strategies he employed to achieve a remarkable transformation.
From Social Isolation to a New Beginning
Before embarking on his weight loss journey, Keith Turner faced significant challenges related to his weight. Weighing 410 pounds, he avoided social settings due to self-loathing and discomfort. He recognized that his weight put a strain on his relationship, though he didn't fully understand the extent of it until later. Despite these struggles, Turner found love and support in his fiancé, Lauren Harvey.
Harvey's love was unconditional, accepting him for who he was, regardless of his weight. This unwavering support became a pivotal motivator for Turner to prioritize his health. He knew he needed to get healthy not only for himself but also for his relationship with Harvey.
The Turning Point: A Decision for Health and Happiness
Turner's decision to lose weight was driven by a desire for a healthier and happier life. He realized he was missing out on many experiences due to his size. This realization, coupled with the support of his fiancé, spurred him to take action.
Harvey initially wanted to begin the process for weight loss surgery and encouraged Turner to also look into the operation.
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Ultimately, Turner went from 410 pounds down to about 211 pounds.
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Tool for Transformation
Both Keith Turner and Lauren Harvey opted for vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) to aid in their weight loss efforts. This surgical procedure involves removing approximately 85% of the stomach, drastically reducing its size and limiting food intake. Turner explained how the VSG limits your portion sizes and decreases your food intake due to the stomach being smaller.
For Harvey, she also felt motivated by Turner to endure the stomach staple procedure.
Following the surgery, Turner and Harvey adopted healthier eating habits. Harvey's diet is now full of protein, as VSG patients are told to keep it their number one food group. Turner downs a protein shake and banana for breakfast.
Embracing an Active Lifestyle
In addition to dietary changes, Turner and Harvey embraced an active lifestyle. The lovebirds love to hike and go on daily walks together. The civil servant now enjoys working out and loves seeing his body changed.
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The Benefits of Weight Loss: More Than Just Physical
Turner's weight loss journey brought about numerous positive changes in his life. “When I was bigger, I truly didn’t really know how much in life I was missing out on,” Turner said. He gained confidence, improved his physical health, and strengthened his relationship with Harvey.
Keith McDonald's Transformation: A Parallel Journey
Keith McDonald's story mirrors Turner's in many ways. McDonald, at 45, embarked on his weight loss journey at 317 pounds in 2015. By 2019, he had lost 28 pounds, reaching 289 pounds when he discovered the benefits of fasting. Through dedication and deep self-reflection, he dropped to 173 lbs by 2021.
McDonald's journey wasn't without its challenges. He became obsessed with weight loss, and the extreme drop led to years of sciatica and physical pain. That turning point led him to strength training 2.5 years ago, where he rebuilt his body, resolved his back issues, and added nearly 30 lbs of muscle-all while maintaining his clothing size. He also underwent skin surgery to complete his transformation.
Intermittent Fasting: A Powerful Tool for Weight Management
McDonald's story highlights the effectiveness of intermittent fasting (IF) as a weight loss strategy. IF involves cycling between periods of eating and voluntary fasting on a regular schedule. Numerous individuals have found success with IF, including Tonya Kortekaas and Elaine Heyworth.
Tonya Kortekaas, who reached her highest weight of 349 lbs, discovered intermittent fasting and lost 155 lbs over 26 months. Since being on the podcast in February of 2023, episode 161, Tonya has discovered the benefits of a carnivore lifestyle and has noticed numerous health benefits by cutting the sugar and processed foods out of her life.
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Elaine Heyworth, who has been fasting for 6 years, considers IF the easiest and most effective way of keeping weight off. She notes that while she has experienced weight fluctuations due to medication, illness, or stress, IF has always been a reliable tool for regaining control.
The Importance of Support and Accountability
Both Turner's and McDonald's stories underscore the importance of support and accountability in achieving weight loss goals. Turner found unwavering support in his fiancé, while McDonald benefited from the Fasting Highway Patreon community.
Chelsea Turner, who lost 15kgs (33 pounds) in February 2023, emphasized the importance of accountability, which she found in Graeme's Patreon Zoom meetings.
Ros Boland, who lost 53kg over the past few years, also highlighted the importance of walking with her best friend, Chelsea, for both mental and physical well-being.
Keith Turner: A Trainer and Motivator
Beyond his personal weight loss journey, Keith Turner is also a personal trainer and owner of Keith Turner Weightloss, Body Shaping & Toning Facility. He has been training, motivating, and helping women & men lose weight and reach their weight loss goals for 33 years. His mottos are "Each One…Teach One…to…Reach One" and weight loss is "Not A Game." Commit yourself to regular exercise routines and always stay in touch with your inner core.