Pounds lost: 117
Height: 5 feet 8
Age: 56
Hometown: New York City
 
A yo-yo dieter since the age of 16, Judy K. changed all that in April 2004 when she saw a photo of herself taken at a dog-training seminar. She was more than 100 pounds overweight, and the unflattering picture, along with the realization that she was unable to keep up with her three dogs, jolted her. At the time, her sister had successfully lost 30 pounds on the South Beach Diet, and, not to be outdone, Judy decided to adopt the lifestyle as well. After 20 months, she reached her goal weight, which she has maintained for more than a year. For Judy, losing the weight has translated into not just a fitter body but also a healthier outlook. With a newfound sense of confidence, she knows she has discovered an eating plan for life.
 
Most effective strategy: "I found it intimidating to think about all the weight I had to lose, so I set short-term goals, like 10 pounds at a time."
 
Favorite exercise: "I'm a professional dog walker and trainer, and I can now walk and even jog with my dogs for four to five hours a day! I get my exercise while doing something that I love."
 
Biggest surprise: "I started this lifestyle just before my fifty-fourth birthday and thought my age would be a problem for me. But thanks to the South Beach Diet, I learned that it's never too late to make a healthy lifestyle change."
 
Favorite snack: "I love having hummus and carrots around 4 p.m., and I usually have a handful of nuts as a late-night snack."
 
Favorite compliment: "People tell me that I look 15 years younger!"
 
Best part: "I've been on every diet and taken every diet pill, but this plan has taught me how to eat properly. I am so grateful to the South Beach Diet for helping me to reclaim my life."
 
Fabulous fringe benefit: "I can go clothes shopping and buy pretty things — in a size 10!"

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