What’s your favorite thing about the S.A.S.S! Yourself Slim book?
I love that I lost a significant amount of weight (I’ve gone from a size 10 to a size 4), but I don’t feel restricted or deprived. It feels amazing that I’ve shrunk so much but I don’t feel like I’m “on a diet” – I feel so confident about my body and my eating choices and physically I’ve never felt better in my life.

How did you feel the first week of the plan?
Amazed. Before the plan, I had a restless sleeping pattern where I'd wake up frequently in the middle of the night. I’d also go through periods during the day where my energy would drop or I would slide into a food coma post meals. I was convinced that something was wrong with me, but I couldn’t put my finger on it, and doctors insisted my blood results were fine. Being on the plan for just one week completely reset my body. I'm very proud to say that I now enjoy a restful sleep each night, have consistent energy throughout the day, no stomach pains, and I can finally fit into a size 4 jeans!

Why is the plan so easy?
I love how I can create my own meals from both the comfort of my kitchen and out at a restaurant. I’m never bored with food because the options are unlimited. It’s so easy make meals straight from the book or create my own meals using the 5 piece puzzle. This plan is so easy! And the best part is that you don't even have to give up chocolate!

Have you ever deviated from the plan?
I have deviated a few times, but by doing that I learned that the plan's portions are the exact amount of food I need to feel just right. When I’ve overindulged, I’ve always ended up with stomach pains and no energy. Because of the plan I’ve worked on distinguishing mental hunger from physical hunger, which Cynthia talks about a lot in the book.  And she’s taught me how to incorporate can’t-live-without foods into a balanced meal so I never have to feel guilty or go “on” and “off” the plan – I can even fit in French fries!

How do you navigate social situations while following the plan?
I check out the menu before visiting a restaurant. I used to be scared of someone judging me based on my new eating plan, but I've found that if I don’t bring it up or call attention to it people don’t even notice what I’m eating. And like the book says I set myself up for success by keeping “emergency back-ups” with me. I’ve also taken Cynthia’s advice and started planning social events where food is not the center of attention.

What surprised you the most about the plan?
I thought giving up soda and sugary beverages would be a huge challenge, but I lost all cravings and do not miss them one bit. It’s mind blowing to me how I completely forget about sugary drinks considering I drank at least two cans of soda per day for over a decade!

What's your favorite meal?
Black bean avocado tacos. They are easy to make and taste delicious! I love this plan. I feel like an entirely new person and I'm never going to look back.