Alison Hammond, the beloved host of “This Morning” and “The Great British Bake Off,” has inspired fans worldwide with her incredible weight loss journey. At her heaviest, Alison weighed 28 stone, but through dedication and lifestyle changes, she has shed an impressive 11 stone. Here’s a glimpse into the secrets behind her remarkable transformation.
The Turning Point
Alison’s decision to prioritize her health came after being diagnosed as pre-diabetic. Her mother, Maria, had type 2 diabetes and was concerned about Alison’s health. Following her mother’s passing in 2020 from lung and liver cancer, Alison resolved to take control of her well-being. “I was literally dying,” Alison admitted, recalling the moment she decided to take charge of her health. “I realized that if I didn’t make a change, I wouldn’t be around for the people who love me. I had to start focusing on myself”.
Ditching the Quick Fix
In a world of weight loss injections, Alison chose a different path. She opted for a more traditional approach, focusing on diet and exercise. “I think that, for people who need to use them, they’re a good thing – but for me, as soon as I hear any scare story, I get frightened,” she told Good Housekeeping UK regarding weight loss jabs.
Diet and Nutrition: Moderation is Key
Alison didn’t believe in restrictive diets. Instead, she embraced moderation and mindful eating. She focused on reducing her intake of sugar, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates. “I don’t deny myself anything; I eat everything, but in moderation,” she told Heat Magazine.
Here are some key aspects of Alison’s dietary changes:
- Prioritizing Whole Foods: She increased her intake of lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Limiting Sugar and Fat: Alison reduced her consumption of sugary snacks and fatty foods.
- Mindful Portions: She learned to enjoy her favorite foods in smaller, healthier portions.
- No Deprivation: Alison avoided restrictive plans that would make her feel miserable, opting for a sustainable way of eating.
By tweaking her diet, Alison is no longer pre-diabetic. “I’m no longer pre-diabetic, so I’m a bit naughtier with my food now,” she explained. “But because my body’s working properly, I can allow myself a bit of sugar here and there”.
Workout Routine: Finding Joy in Movement
Exercise became a crucial part of Alison’s lifestyle, but she didn’t jump into intense gym routines. Instead, she discovered activities she enjoyed and could incorporate into her daily life. “I had to find exercise I liked,” Alison said. “I didn’t want to force myself into a gym routine I wouldn’t stick with. I started walking more, doing exercises at home, and gradually increasing my activity level”.
Alison’s workout routine includes:
- Walking: A consistent part of her daily routine. “I walk every day. It’s not about running marathons, it’s about moving my body and staying active in a way that feels good to me,” she shares.
- Personal Trainer Sessions: Alison works with a personal trainer when she can, typically for an hour, up to four days a week.
- Strength Training: She includes strength training exercises to burn fat and improve overall fitness.
- Home Workouts: Alison has weights at home and incorporates activities like stretching and yoga. “Twice a week I see my personal trainer, and I have a couple of weights in my bedroom. I walk, I stretch, and sometimes I do a bit of yoga,” she shared.
Alison’s trainer, Lui Mancini, has shared videos of her workouts, which include kettlebell swings, medicine ball routines, and boxing.
Feeling Amazing
Alison’s hard work has paid off, not just in terms of weight loss but also in her overall well-being. “I feel amazing. I feel happy within myself,” she told Heat Magazine. “I love my new shape, and although I still have areas I’m conscious of, such as my arms and tummy, it’s great being able to wear things I would never have been able to before. I mean, look at me, I’m a bombshell”.
Alison’s journey is an inspiration to many, demonstrating that sustainable lifestyle changes, rather than quick fixes, are the key to long-term health and happiness.
