A 26-year-old man from North London, George Ferreira, has successfully lost **18 stone** over the past **21 months** through a combination of weekly football and significant dietary changes. Ferreira, who once weighed nearly **40 stone**, reached a breaking point that prompted him to take control of his health and lifestyle.
Ferreira’s weight gain began at the age of **17**, fueled by a diet heavy in takeaways and sugary drinks. This lifestyle led him to a moment of crisis when he joined a football team tailored for overweight individuals but struggled to keep up during a match. He described this experience as a “rock bottom” moment, which ultimately inspired him to make lasting changes.
After joining **MANvFAT Football** in **March 2024**, Ferreira began to embrace a healthier lifestyle. He replaced sugary drinks with water and opted for more nutritious food choices, such as chicken and rice instead of pizzas. As a result, he has lost nearly half his bodyweight, now weighing **21 stone** and fitting into size **44 trousers**, down from size **68**.
Ferreira expressed the difficulties he faced during his weight loss journey. “At my worst, I was stressed, and I ate. I’m depressed, and I ate,” he said. The concern from his family led him to consult with a doctor, who suggested surgical options. However, Ferreira was apprehensive about such procedures and instead opted for a more gradual approach to weight loss.
The charity **MANvFAT** supports men in losing weight through six-a-side football matches, where participants are incentivized with “goals” based on their weight loss. Ferreira recalled being shocked when he first weighed in at **249 kg** (or **39.2 stone**), and the challenge of playing football at that weight was daunting. With encouragement from his coach, he found the motivation to continue.
In terms of his diet, Ferreira adopted “small, smart swaps” that have made a significant difference. He typically consumes one main meal a day, with lunch serving as his anchor. His meals often include balanced options like chicken, rice, and beans, or salmon with salad, which he finds both satisfying and convenient.
Ferreira’s transformation has drastically improved his daily life. Tasks that were once burdensome, such as climbing stairs and shopping for clothes, have become manageable. Looking ahead, he has ambitious goals, including trying out for a Sunday League team to experience playing a full **90-minute** match. Additionally, he is excited about the potential opportunity to participate in a national event featuring the biggest weight losers from both the north and south of the country.
While Ferreira acknowledges he may never reach the recommended **Body Mass Index (BMI)** for his height, he feels comfortable at around **85 to 90 kg**. He recognizes that his journey has shaped him into a person with humor and empathy.
His advice for those seeking to make a change is simple: “You don’t need anything dramatic. You either keep turning up or you disappear. And I chose not to disappear.”
