Recipe to losing weight | Anna Verhulst | TEDxMaastricht

This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Anna Verhulst (23) is a fifth year medical student at Maastricht University, doing her internship in Eindhoven. She has a particular interest in the fields of oncology and sports medicine, but isn’t quite sure yet what kind of doctor she wants to become when she graduates in 2016.
Anna is a keen writer, sharing her experiences as a junior intern through columns, essays and opinion pieces. A selection of her publications can be found at annaverhulst.blogspot.nl. In between her internships, she is also involved in a research project that explores the possibilities of exercise rehabilitation in cancer survivors.
On stage at TEDx Maastricht 2014, Anna will share a story that she has purposely kept silent for a long time. It is a story that has nothing to do with her work as a medical student, researcher or writer. It is her personal story, for which she has finally worked up the courage to share it with the public.
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About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[@Julia-vc3by]

When she said, "To me, I still look like that" it really hit close to home. One of the major reasons I gained weight when I was younger was because I assumed I was bigger than I was, and so I was unable to recognise when I gained weight. This talk was so inspirational.

[@Nordseeliebe]

Your comment really attached me. I had always overweight, but I gained so much more weight and now look how I always feld. I am tired of feeling like that and enjoy living in my body.

[@batoolawaisheh5185]

Wow …. Never been related to a comment like this

[@deepkaur8364]

I always felt this way too and people surrounding me kept telling me I was over weight even when I was 75kgs and then I just ate more subconsciously and reached till 90 still they keep telling me

[@treize1354]

For me it’s the opposite. Since I was thin as a child and as a teenager, and started to gain weight around the age of 28, I am now 41, three children, fatter than ever (100 kg) and when I look in the mirror I don’t recognize myself because in my head, I am thin... and it’s such a weird and delusional and disappointed feeling ☹️

[@melisaogundare4168]

From these comments I can conclude that only those that have struggled first hand with self acceptance can truly appreciate the sincerity and insightful nature of this talk.

[@beccahday]

i appreciate the sincerity of this talk, but it is definitely mistitled.

[@tonyouwendyk]

Comments are not for Spamming your links.

[@BANKO007]

Ah, a sensible comment! I think the message here is far broader than weight loss, although narrow minds (which can manage simple and the complicated but not the complex issues) will fail to see it.

[@annacurtis9036]

Melisa Ogundare i

[@mesertuga]

Melisa Ogundare there is a problem with modern society it's call bullying. Could be indirect or direct way. Direct way is just rude persons that make people duty what they are. and try to live as the society except of us. The other is just social pressure for a "standard" fashion, life habits things that we MUST be, MUST have. I came here expecting some magical formula and found a fragile person that try to find accepted in the world and say that is no shame in what we are. We all have our inter demon's great people overcame them. Great job. This is not a weight ted talk. I It's a society and motivation ted talk. Great job.

[@hplovecraftmacncheese]

The reason people fail is all the misinformation out there, most notably: "It's simple. Just eat less than you burn." That's like saying, if you want to climb Mt. Everest, it's simple - just keep going up until you get to the top. It's not simple. People severely underestimate how much of a task it is to force your body to do what it doesn't want to do - release its stored energy.

[@blueorangeblossom]

Haha good metaphor; yes we are faced with some insurmountable odds... Set point theory; the 98% chance one will gain it back plus 20% give or take more, higher and more extreme hunger pains, eating 100s of calories less than our thin counterparts. Hormones in pesticides, dairy, plastic, meat, and antibiotics. Addictive Chemical cocktails in fast food, sugar the wonder drug that effects dopamine and serotonin like a drug, cheese is also addictive like morphine bc of casein...obliterated stomach flora bc of chlorine in water and medicines. That's all before a genetic component or sedentary lifestyle...not adding stress hormones such as cortisol...

[@blueorangeblossom]

+Frances Trotter oh I forgot one; genetically modified corn syrup and hydrogenated fats that attach themselves to fat molecules and won't be released because it's not metabolized correctly. Margarine is a culprit... It's all online you can see little animations of the chemical molecules dancing together attaching and then attaching themselves to ones rear...

[@timwade3606]

The physics (of losing weight, not climbing Everest) really is that simple. If you eat fewer calories and you burn more calories (by exercising), you will lose weight. If you have no willpower, you will do neither.

[@beatricem.6125]

Specially when the food and diet industries release myths so the people feel like they are never doing anything right never. Like if by dietying we are always just losing water weight and will gain back 30 pounds as soon as your lips touches a cookie. They totally ignore that people gain weight back when they start to eat a lot again and not as a result of dietying.

[@teresehilesolson944]

If this is true for you, you are a lucky man. Historically, I average about 1400 to 2000 calories a day. I am a carpenter and do very physical work. I do not lose weight. I even went so far as to have a professional assess my actual food intake for six weeks, and I followed a weight training program designed by him. He was baffled that not only did I not lose weight, I gained weight. I am not alone. My sister, a nurse, also struggles with weight loss despite a very low daily food intake, as does my brother who is a contractor/carpenter. Sometimes, it's simple genetics. Sometimes, we have to be proactive, but we also have to be happy with the body we were given.

[@wanderer_eri]

I love this talk. The title might me misleading but that's because we were taught for so long that losing weight is all about changing habits, eating less, and other 'simple' recipes that people always love to talk about. The truth about it, is that losing weight is a challenge within oneself. Whether you talk about physically or emotionally a lot of us struggle in fighting our own battles. This talk taught me that comparing your recipes with others is not the right way to do it. You have to listen to your body and seek what is the right approach to do in order to lose weight. I am currently working on my work-out habits, and it is the best decision that taking everything slow in working out made me learn to love exercise and not despise it because I am pushing myself too much. If you are struggling now and came upon on my comment, try to change things, and focus on your own pace rather than rushing yourself too much.

[@rachr9652]

This talk is everything. That ladies and gentlemen is body dismorphia, which normally comes with an eating disorder. The fact that she had the courage to say it out loud... I am there too, getting over my ed and this talk made my day. I am so tired of the stereotypes behind eds, and she is just perfect to represent what most of us, overcoming an ed look and feel like. Thank you very much for this talk!!!

[@fantasia243645]

I wish more people would talk about the physiological aspects of losing weight and how to combat fear after the weight loss. Great talk Anna Verhulst.

[@MrNorman51]

fantasia243645 k

[@toddmitchell2125]

This was a very moving talk. She doesn't give you the recipe to lose weight necessarily, but really gives one something to think about and a little insight into her thoughts after her journey. I was impressed and moved by her sharing. I will be sharing this video with others. Thank You!

[@3232James]

The point is losing weight isn't simple. It's not a simple recipe you can follow, it involves emotions, fears, courage, and understanding of oneself. Weight loss is complex, and you need to create your own recipe so that not only will you look good, but feel good in your body.

[@kpollard1427]

Thank you, I received the same message.

[@MMXI-Kun]

That's really hard. I've been trying for years.

[@laurahow4963]

Oh thank-you Anna - this video has brought much comfort and hope to me. Having struggled with binge-eating disorder and the physical and psychological consequences, I know many of the struggles around weight, and I am grateful to you for sharing your story. You leave me inspired and hopeful.

[@mariaazzara4657]

I found this talk very emotional and inspiring. Thank Anna for sharing your experience with us. It will be precious for a lot of people.

[@WisdomSeekingWriter]

THANK YOU, Anna! Beautiful presentation with a very unexpected ending! Very inspirational and encouraging to me!

[@kaboozle]

Wat een openbaring! Je talk heeft me een nieuw perspectief op m'n eigen leven gegeven, niet alleen op m'n overgewicht. Ik complimenteer je met je moed én de inhoud van je verhaal. En, als het helpt: het eerste wat ik dacht toen ik je op het podium zag was "wat een leuke vrouw!"...

[@blainelittleford3346]

Incredible explanation, the things I've thought since I dropped all my weight and continue to conquer the battle was just organized in this talk.

[@flyhoney17]

How very well spoken and thank you for sharing your personal experience in this. I really enjoyed the presentation and the message - our world tends to oversimplify very complex things, so thank you for shining light on the complexity of something so close to home. I could feel so many vibes from this, hope the presenter continues to concur her fears.

[@michaelrobinson5403]

This is quite moving. Weight is complex, both in how we lose or gain it, but also in how we think about it. Thank you for sharing your story Dr Verhulst.

[@controlschemekeaton]

I was absolutely blown away when she revealed that was her. What a powerful message.

[@ElephantPatronus]

Spoiler.

[@thewildybeast]

I lost 70kg a couple of years before lockdown. Unfortunately during lockdown I did put the weight back on. When I lost the weight people asked me how I did it. I told them, “Everyone will tell you what you should do and guess what? Yes, we all know what we should do. The most important thing about loosing weight is to do with being in the right frame of mind. If you’re not, then you will never successfully lose weight “.

[@StormyG32]

I think it's wonderful that Anna Verhulst shared her story! My weight has been something I have been struggling with for years. I am just now working on developing as she called it my own "personal recipe" for my weight loss. My most recent "recipe" was to record a personal self motivating message that I will play when tempted to eat bad foods! 

[@helenpakdijaras7473]

Teyah Bellah -

[@AClarke2007]

That's right, it doesn't have to be a FOOD Recipe!

[@Fluffytigerb]

This woman spoke volumes to me. I was very large throughout school and while I disliked it I always assumed it was just the way I was. I ended up visiting some athletic relatives over the summer and joined them in their active lifestyle while there. During that visit I dropped 10 pounds, that didn't put me anywhere near a healthy weight but it helped me see that I could lose weight if I was willing to stop making excuses and start living healthy. Within a year I dropped 60+ pounds and went from 200 to 136 (I'm only 5'2"). Despite this every time I look in the mirror I hate myself, every time I go out to eat I don't feel like I deserve the food, I still see the 200 pound person I was and can't not see it. It's even worse when you don't pay attention and you walk by a mirror and see yourself in the corner of your eye and you see that you are thin but the longer you look the bigger you seem to get just standing there. It's harder to deal with that than it was to lose the weight and keep it off.

[@wilmaknickersfit]

Thank you for sharing your story.

[@sawsenselmani9983]

i am about to start a long jouney to lose weight , this talk was so inspiring and motivating . i hope i can just go back one year after to see my comment while being in a perfect weight .

[@odins_claw]

Many very attractive people are insecure about their looks. That is how I know that I am not attractive, I am quite secure, well that and the state of my face

[@user-dp4bu8jy4b]

But you are attractive!

[@westmorelandroad]

Too funny :D Thanks!

[@coololena10]

Adrian Owens right its more to emotional stability and self esteem

[@davidlugrad5763]

A buddy told me to research for the diet plan *2WeightLossFast. Com* It is the best diet program I’ve ever seen and gives immediate results to users. Within a week, I’ve already dropped 16 lbs.?

[@elizabethalvarado3693]

I love your storytelling approach in this video! Truly powerful delivery and execution!

[@abeer6187]

unless you went through the struggle you won't get what this lady is trying to say a very deep and sincere message

[@deniseforester7637]

This made me cry. Bravo for your courage

[@weightlossreviews5966]

I lost weight and gained it again, I have been trying to get courage to lose it again, thanks for giving encouragement. :)

[@jutanboy]

Same bro, im trying to lose it again now, but really hard to keep it off! Good luck btw!

[@jutanboy]

Oh, 5 year old comment 😜 How did it go?

[@olivianamendes7198]

@@jutanboy 0

[@wulfcwen]

A good presentation and inspirational. Eat less move more has always been drummed into us but wanting to do it is the key. Anna shares the fact that the 15 year old girl who was overweight is standing before you 7 years later and slim. Admitting she still sees the overweight girl but is working towards the final goal of seeing what others see. If she can do it so can I and I am 64 and not willing to give up. There is no quick fix to weight loss it takes work and Anna reminds us it is also an emotional and psychological as well.

[@sapanameshram1926]

I know I am five years late but how are you doing? Did you lose weight?

[@thresiapather4850]

Thank you for sharing your story. You are truly inspiring!

[@user_bilal]

Brilliant, absolutely brilliant. If you're reading this Anna Verhulst, thank you for mustering up the courage to share your story.

[@meij_musicenthusiast]

I never recognized the complexity of losing weight. It's always been a problem for me because it's always been a problem for my mom. She wanted me and my sister to lose weight and so I struggle with my self image because I was never "given" a positive outlook on it. I, through my own trials, have begun to choose a more positive outlook to where I eat higher quality foods and I've found exercises I enjoy - I enjoy my life more, but I still struggle. Anna Verhulst has made an excellent point and it feels like a major discovery. I'm glad to have a clearer perspective now. I will use it as a stronger starting point to become more compassionate and controlled in my actions.

[@Zalo.]

Before I started and began losing weight, the thing that kept me in place, unable to go further or even start, was the fact that it just seemed so unreal that there are real people out there really working. The fact that people were actually losing weight and that I could do it if I tried was just so unreal to me. I couldn’t believe it. It’s been a while since I got over that, and I’m doing good. Video was really motivational, it really did get me more motivated.

[@cicilg]

amazing amazing video. brought tears to my eyes because i can relate.

[@jimparfitt2330]

Somehow the picture of you as a 15 year old reminds me of myself; all the insecurities i felt at that age. I was very thin, but felt overwhelmed by the contrast between a loving home with wonderful parents...between that and the world outside that seemed so much more difficult. I was a stutterer, and was teased a fair amount at school. And had no idea how to approach girls. It has been a long process learning to be a man in the world. And manifest strength when it's needed without throwing away that compassion for others. For us sensitive types, life maybe is different from other people. I see that you are the same type of sensitive soul. Even tho i was very thin, the 15 year old you reminds me of myself. All the best to you.

[@markthornton871]

I lost 60 pounds a 15 years back and still have to work on the intake of food, I quit drinking 40 years ago, had a problem with that as well, kinda like eating. Quit tobacco 18 months ago after 45 years of use and still crave it, kinda like food, point is in all of these things it takes willpower to accomplish anything in life that is worth doing, just keep trying in the end you will work it out. The woman in the speech should be proud of what she has done, overcoming fear is real and takes that willpower thing I was speaking of, keep going girl!!

[@rajeshp1935]

Wonderfully articulated story telling . Really impressed to the narration. And take away is how we are ignorant Ned wrongly guided by our society in topic of weight loss.

[@isabt4]

Bravo! Hurray for courage and overcoming our fears!

[@lilith4258]

I think she's right, a lot of people have shared their own recipes and exercises they do that successfully changed their body shapes and weights, but that doesn't fit me if I don't have the ability to follow their ways, and this talk is really inspiring, because lots of people they all have bad imagine of their body shapes, but we can try to love our bodies, instead of following unrealistic standards of body shapes that we may not achieve. I always want to lose weight, because people say I will look better if I lose some weight, but they don't know that losing weight is a complex question, everyone has their own ways, they don't need to be forced to do anything, they have to be self-deciplined, and are willing to do what they promised themselves.

[@lovettdeleted]

the title and the content are two different things

[@m0L3ify]

Lea Lovett That's because you are accustomed to having the recipes handed to you and being told what to do. Or perhaps you are in search of your perfect recipe, as I am, and were hoping that she would have all the answers boiled down to a 10 minute talk. What she did was far more meaningful.

[@lovettdeleted]

m0L3ify what did i do to deserve this essay

[@m0L3ify]

Lea Lovett Not understanding the title

[@GlorifiedTruth]

m0L3ify When the title is "recipe to losing weight," then yes, one expects a recipe.

[@m0L3ify]

Glorified Truth And not a TED-esque play-on-words social commentary about the psychological effects of the social expectations and culture surrounding weight that conveniently leave out one of the most important 'ingredients': self worth. Yeah, I get that. Lea is still incorrect.

[@marlonsreview8061]

I love your presentation, and thank you for your courage. People need these sincere speeches.

[@rhondaramos6626]

A friend told me to lookup for the diet plan at *2WeightLossFast. Com* . It has given wonderful results to people and worked incredibly well for me. I have already decreased 10 lbs in less than the first week.?

[@user-dt2zy7tw1q]

The title is misleading… motivational talks won’t be of any help when struggling with weight loss.

[@dianaschmitt8854]

So sweet and sincere. Loved it.

[@DudeGamer8]

Don't waste your time, I will sum this speech for you: 1. Was fat last time 2. Now thin 3. Is possible to be thin 4. Find your method There you go, now go watch some cat video.

[@MELODYMUNRO]

..NOPE.

[@KMJCAN1313]

Well said - empty "calorie" speech.

[@JorisWeima]

Cat video XD

[@timwade3606]

You didn't "get it" then? Never mind.

[@carolegan9367]

YK us d

[@ArifAli-hg1eq]

I appreciate your honest and valuable talk, thanks.

[@phyllisschwartz800]

This talk was powerful and thought-provoking, offering personal insights rather than just a weight loss recipe. It was courageous of the speaker to address body dysmorphia and eating disorders, and I found it inspiring. I used SlimSparks diet program to help me lose weight.

[@AnnaVisser1]

A very good talk, and most encouraging!

[@noviceprepper53]

what a courageous and beautiful and honest lady

[@solomonfaber8026]

Excellent, honest and thank you!

[@ericassuvtravels]

Wow her story has brought tears to my heart.

[@susel215]

Loved this video! Great presentation ...

[@rhondaramos6626]

In case, like me, you’ve been losing your time searching for a diet program that works, *2WeightLossFast. Com* . ” I have droped 15 pounds in Just one week. I would advise this program to any individual who’s searching for a really effective plan.?

[@colpugno7]

TED talks is always about inspirational speech, and she just did that.

[@jimscanoe]

I suspect that losing weight is like many challenges in life-success or failure depends on your focus. Stay in the moment and focus on what is in front of you right now at this moment in time. To lose 50 pounds will take perhaps 10 months to a year assuming you consistently reduce your caloric intake. To lose 1 pound will take perhaps 5 days to a week assuming you consistently reduce your caloric intake. However, the most important thing to losing weight, or for achieving anything for that matter, is what you are doing right now at this moment in time-and that's where your entire focus should be. All the best in achieving your goals.

[@jimparfitt2330]

I knew that the young girl in the picture was you. You are a lovely woman on all levels, Anna. The thing that stands out for me in this talk is...well first of all, your beauty. But second of all, your sincerity and courage. God bless you, and best of luck to you, Anna.

[@MsMrJiggs]

I really enjoyed this! Thank you!

[@raftal08]

YUO are my Hero for today congratulations keep going

[@flowerlove2985]

This is the second time I watched your video. I think you can lose your fear and enjoy happiness. You brought tears to my eyes. Always be on the lookout for things that will keep you motivated. As time passes your healthy look will sink into your brain, and the previous image of yourself will begin to disappear. You're smart, brave, beautiful inside and out, really. Your accent is delightful. I'm so glad I watched you speak, I know it will help me. PS: ignore negative comments:)

[@eggsdietdiary]

this is so touching... thank you!

[@elenabozzola5165]

Beautiful speach, great speaker. Thank you for sharing. Please ignore narrow minded comments

[@mu9284]

The answer to weight loss is , was and always will be...no drum rolls please : FASTING and EXERCISE. This is what we need to do ,this is what our ancestors had to do ( they didnt have a choice you see ) , Hunt for food hence exercise and wait for the next hunt hence fasting. Search the yooutube for the word intermittent fasting and its benefits you will see how it has changed thousands of lives and we need not search for exercise to know that it works . The moment when these two ingredients meet the recipe is complete. Thanks for reading guys.... cheers....

[@bibiarefaansari7326]

Beautifull personal story, well spoken!

[@MYfriendsknow]

Enjoyed - good job! Self confidence and courageous.

[@geniechoe6487]

I hope her BBD resolves soon so she can see the truth; she's brilliant and beautiful. Facing fears of ridicule to encourage others is amazing and I'm thankful for the insightful talk

[@juliejoseph2201]

I knew it was you as soon as it went up on the screen. This is so sweet!

[@sallywally8770]

i absolutely relate to this! its important how we still view our bodies even when we lose weight, i still have that perception of me being 'fat' or people thinking im 'fat' and when i get compliments or people tell me that ive lost alot of weight i seem to deny this , as if i cannot except this. although it is the truth i refuse to accept it because i still see myself as that same fat girl as i was before despite of even having a new body, i think its difficult to adjust sometimes our minds love to play tricks on us and it seems i still havent adapted to the realisation of the fact that im not actually overweight anymore. this is a massive issue which i think alot of people go through. just goes to show that you might think losing weight is the key to your happiness but it really isn't. and that is something we need to find for ourselves. if we are never truly happy with our bodies we will always strive to be thin or whatever ideal body shape we think we should be because that is what we think will make us happy. screw society and screw this mentality. just do what makes you happy because its a short life.

[@mushuonelove5490]

Quite a few of the comments in here I don't want to say disgust me, but they really do. The courage it took for her to explain her story in a way where other people in similar situations can understand, the courage it took to stand in front of people who don't even think about these kind of mind frames or 'trivial matters'. What, do fat lives not matter? Do only skinny and appealing lives matter? People who cant contain their negative criticism need a dose of wake the fuck up, and realize they are apart of why today's society is the way it is. I wish that one day this generation and future generations will see how the natural order of things work, how ripple effects work. Personally, yes this talk did speak wonders to me, and yes I am over weight, but seriously I wouldn't go along to a video or chat that you liked and belittle it because I didn't agree with it. Get off your high horse and learn some consideration, or general respect. But this talk was amazing, the fact that she spoke about her deepest darkest pain, and still could smile at the end of it regardless of peoples opinions, that come through in energy. Jah Bless, Anna. Thank you for sharing your story, and helping other people in a similar state of mind gain a better understanding.

[@jacquelinesanchez5512]

[@rogerstiff2961]

Fat people have always been looked down upon because its science, scientificly fat people are lesser than skinny people because they are unhealthy in a multitude of ways, and back when we always had to watch out for danger you would want the fit person who can run, fight and better protect the next generation; a fat person would not have good odds of survival, in short it was survival of the fitest and we figured out who the fitest were through looks, thus makeing fat people look less atractive. Now though we dont need to worry about how fit we are but how smart we are ( think about P.E requierments), this gives fat people a higher value in society as long as they're smart. As humans we have gone far beyond our natural limits but we still fall prey to our animal insticnt and unfortunatly our instinct says fat people are not wanted and unatractive, this is barely subsided by our logic and emotion. Asking someone to not judge a fat person badly is like asking a mother bird to care about the bay bird that couldnt flly

[@blueorangeblossom]

+Roger Stiff have you ever studied art? Have you ever looked at Peter Paul Rubens? If you study art history it is only recently that we have adopted a negative attitude towards plumpness. In actuality gaining weight easily is probably a gene that cultures such as the American Indians have because it allowed them to survive in times of famine. In the Renaissance era and in other times of history it was VERY attractive to have extra weight bc it meant that one was wealthy enough to have sustenance. As far as attractiveness women are biologically made with a higher body fat percentage to carry babies, and designed to gain weight during pregnancy. Not only are rounder figures more attractive which is supported and proven by science and art. Only recently had thinness become popular bc of cultural changes which include warped ideas about what is healthy, only heavier women have breasts, but women now lose so much weight they don't have them so they get implants...and butt implants.

[@rogerstiff2961]

being over weight is unhealthy and for thousands over years was seen as bad but over time it meant that you could buy food but before art and rome and greece it was bad, it wasnt good untill then and it was seen as good because of nurture over nature, also when you go through famine the first thing you lose is not fat but muscle. last but not least modern scinece and art ( the last ten years ) do not like a "rounder" figure but a healthy balance ( almost like marilyn monroe ). I have nothing agains fat people nor do i encourage the verbal or phiscal abuse of fat people but i will not endorse or pitty peolple who are fat from being lazy ( not people with medical conditons ) and then complain about being treated baddly if they are not trying to get healthy.

[@NoLefTurnUnStoned.]

Hmmmmm

[@michaelvaladez6570]

Thank you for your honesty a early excellence lecture.

[@andrewhudson3723]

This is a great story. Thanks, Anna.

[@mjschaeffer]

What you say is true. I went from 240 pounds to 160 pounds, and when I looked in the mirror then, I saw a fat person still. But today, when I look at pictures from back then, I see someone who looked like a skeleton. There is something in the brain that lags behind reality.

[@carriecole5092]

hey you need to know that lose weight by eating without a proper plan can affect your health seriously, if you want to lose weight by changing eating habits but don't want to affect your health, try *Imodstyle Diet Recipes* (Have a quick look on google cant remember the place now ) ? I've got some awesome things about it! I *have lost about 10 pounds since last 2 weeks! I also feel stronger & healthier now!*

[@yeisar1749]

How did you do it buddy?

[@herenkapsalon]

I lost 48 pounds in 10 months, but no changes in the mirror, nothing

[@davidwanpue9061]

Michael Schaeffer pron

[@nivikoseven]

This is happening to me. It took me a while to realize it, and to hear others mention it. I still walk around objects leaving tons more space, like I'm still huge. I still don't attempt to walk anywhere narrow for fear of not fitting. It's very strange.

[@wellbodisalone]

This speech was very deep. It was so brave that she shared her story.

[@Endymion766]

I've lost 100 lbs and kept it off for several years but can't seem to lose the last 20 or so that I need to. People ask me how I did it. The answer: controlled starvation. Does it hurt? Yes, a lot. It was hell for 6 months. I felt like crap and couldn't focus on anything else other than losing weight or else I would fall off the wagon. Starvation is no joke. Interrogators use it on terrorists and it often works. So if a hardened terrorist can't handle it than how could a regular, normal, sane person? I think this is why I can't lose the last 20. I just don't want to go through that again. I'm glad I lost the weight, and I'm keeping it off by eating normally. But if one has to choose between living their life OR losing weight, I can understand why they choose living. I don't want to discourage anyone from trying. Maybe their experience will be different like Ms. Verhulst implies with her personal recipe talk. But to explain to think people why we fat people stay fat, imagine having to eat half of what you do now, or else you start packing on weight. You would feel starved all the time, or you would be fat. Which one would you pick? And could you pick starved for the rest of your life? I'm trying to do just that, and I'm not sure I want to live that way. What's the point, if I can't enjoy anything because I'm permanently hungry?

[@Endymion766]

***** No I haven't. I've considered it though. There's a Lindora clinic not too far away and if it's close enough to walk to I may see if it's something I can afford.

[@w1975b]

Endymion766 It's really not necessary to starve yourself. Just eat the right foods, which many people are confused about and the government/agriculture dept doesn't help. Consider this, the United States Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) is in business to sell what they produce, make profit, not keep people healthy. It's also NOT a given that you will be eating boring food or "cardboard", thinking every minute, "how long do I have to eat this way?" Yes, it will take a little more effort, but you won't be suffering. That is the main reason most people fail when they diet (the wrong way), because they're miserable! It does need to be a way of eating for life, but you can still enjoy it. Watch videos and listen to the podcasts here on youtube from Jonathan Bailor/SANE Solution, and there are completely free recipes here - www.marmaladeandmileposts.com/

[@angiecat33]

+Endymion766 I don't have any suggestions for losing those last 20 because I'm in a similar position but I can help on the not starving part. Look up the term caloric density. If you eat your dinner meal by having a big soup, a big salad, or make half of your meal lower calorie fresh whole food, I found that helped me get through it. I have lost 150 and still have about 30 or so to lose, give/take some of it being skin. Early in the game I thought the same thing, how am I going to get this done if I'm just so hungry all the time? I started hunting and then realized that much of the key to success was not binging due to hunger freak outs so I started applying what I wrote here. I have maintained what I have lost for about 2 yrs now. If we never get those last pounds off, while it is frustrating, it is still better than the suffering of having that extra weight. Best wishes and hope my tip helps you or someone else reading.

[@dr.aliceclearman555]

Good on you!! Bravo!! Part of that last 20 is probably skin that your body expanded to accommodate your former girth.perhaps the whole 20 is. Skin is very thick... and heavy. Try the Fast 5 for maintenance. We are seeing some great results with it, and you won't be miserable.

[@Endymion766]

Ana1106 I ate about 500 calories a day for several months, with the exception of Friday I ate about 2000. The reason I had to go so low was because that's what it took to see the scales go down. 1500 didn't work, even 1000 didn't work. It had to be 500. I really don't want to do that again. I'm eating about 2000 a day now, and the weight is slowly coming back, even with an hour of moderate exercise a day.

[@wolfafe]

Either the title is off or the presentation is off, because there was literally 0 information about weight loss. All that i saw was a girl speaking about her insecurity of being fat and showing picture of herself before when she was +40 kilos.

[@will_Iam61]

The problem is that a lot of people are missing the implied message. Weight loss is first about the mental/self exploration that needs to take place. Most people overeat because of some issue, like self image, insecurity, lack of self-esteem, emotional abuse in an unhappy home, etc. To truly lose the weight you need to work on your emotional state and find a way to feel better about yourself or right the wrong that is causing you to need to self medicate with food. Boredom is also a reason why people tend to overeat, but as she pointed out this is a complex problem with many individual facets that each individual needs to examine. That is why when someone has lost weight through the difficult, but traditional methods of cutting calories and moving more, it doesn't stick for long. Willpower will not outlast the deep emotional issue that caused the problem in the first place.

[@fieryelf]

While I don't really understand the psychological aspect of losing weight and living with a somewhat different body image I will say this. There is a recipe to losing weight. #1- Find a TDEE Calculator on google, it'll tell you how many calories to eat to lose/maintain/gain weight and what your macros are. #2- Cut sugar and processed food out of your diet. It doesn't need to happen over night but make it happen little by little. #3- Use a calorie calculator app on your phone to track what you're eating. #4- Exercise (optional but highly recommended) Weight lifting is better than cardio as it burns calories for longer after you're done training. #5- Stay consistent Simple, definitely not complex.

[@ayshashen1392]

Right on girl, good for you for losing the weight and sharing your story. I too have had weight issues since I was 12 years old and now I look back at photos and the first thing (generally) that I think about is how I remember feeling insecure in that time because I had gained weight or I look back and remember I felt good because I had lost weight. I want to get to a point where I look back at photos and think about that time, and be in that moment rather than in my head worrying about my weight. Thus, I'm on a mission to get in the best shape of my life, and I'm documenting it on KZbin for the next year.. with small baby steps that I hope will last. Also, I agree that the title and content do not match.

[@avamasquerade]

This comment which was made *4 years ago* doesn't match the content.

[@Kathleen67.]

She is a very sweet person.

[@TatiTati-ng7ne]

Just shut up girl. You are so young and your presentation is a slap in the Face of people who struggle with pain and fight for a Long time. I really wish you a happy life

[@terezamazziero3826]

OMG...wonderful!!! Thank u!

[@emmachapman7110]

very moving and brave talk

[@ihope8660]

every single word you said, touched me right in the heart.

[@irenebalan5971]

I need more videos like this 😍

[@arlinegeorge6967]

Beautiful amazing impressive soul . Personal problem, personal solutions.u have to be happy not society. Thank you.bless you. All your dreams come true.

[@mauricebrown9094]

a good starter for me .. thank you

[@marituros9114]

A fantastic speech about weight and your body.

[@markfrank0924]

There are lots of Ted talks, some are better than others but most teach a lesson and this one is no exception. The lesson I learned is that how you see yourself is not always physically apparent to others, and in the end the person you have to please is yourself. This young women at the tender age of 23 has accomplished more than most of us. She is by now an MD and I'm sure is continuing to help others by her own example.

[@tarabrown9734]

For those of you who don’t want to watch, all she says is to conquer your fears and to find a recipe for weight loss that works for you, so pretty standard stuff. No surprise there and no new revelation given. These Ted talks never cease to amaze me how much attention they get lol

[@triciafatandsassy5121]

Thank you

[@B1cam]

I wished I read your comment at the beginning!!

[@billgarland9133]

G

[@LeoTM]

G

[@JalRiderMandy]

Great presentation and story telling

[@stefanweilhartner4415]

yes, people are different and people have different needs but after this title she could at least tell how she managed to get off her weight. it's not that she is complete different life form. so the posibility that that information could help is not very low.

[@Cappellano]

Very inspirational, thank you

[@MccToni]

Great presentation!

[@Anearthchild]

Brilliant talk

[@rafuroni]

You are GREAT Anna Verhulst!

[@vanesascozzarro8154]

That hit home. Awesome ❤

[@owasso8775]

Courage is what it's all about I guess. May God bless those who struggle.

[@presiqnqnkov8391]

best ted talk it managed to make me shed a tear

[@ebrahemdosoki7533]

Presiqn Qnkov

[@madelineernst6753]

I guess all of those who said something negative about this Video, never tried to lose weight and never saw how goddamn hard it is to look in the mirror and to not be happy of what you see. and the Phrase "Just lose the weight then" is not the answer anyone wants to hear because if it was that easy, we would all be thin.

[@Minalicious1]

Wow loved this so much! Great talk 🥰

[@RobynGermaine]

I hear you❤️

[@joannajanickajaworska3341]

It moved me so much.

[@mrledia]

Thank you, that was wow

[@sghtsngsnds9874]

God bless you!