A harrowing experience on a rollercoaster prompted Ivanna Bermudez to take control of her health. The 31-year-old mother, who once weighed over 18 stone, recognized that her weight was hindering her ability to be the mother she aspired to be.
While enjoying a day out with her six-year-old daughter, Ivanna found herself unable to secure the safety bar on a ride. The operator, struggling with the bar, ultimately declared it unsafe for her to ride. This moment of humiliation brought tears to Ivanna’s eyes as she witnessed her daughter’s disappointment. Reflecting on the incident, Ivanna said, “My weight had crept up to 18 stone 2 pounds. It was a stark realization. I’d let it go too far.”
Growing up, Ivanna faced challenges with her weight from an early age. She began gaining weight at 15 while pregnant with her first child, Eva-Sophia, who is now 15. Living in Chessington, southwest London, Ivanna described her childhood, noting, “My mum worked late, so I went to after-school clubs. Food was her love language, so she would eat with me too when I got home. I’d have two dinners a night.”
After the birth of her daughter, Ivanna struggled with cooking and often resorted to takeaways. This lifestyle made it difficult for her to engage in physical activities with her children. She avoided mirrors and photographs, feeling self-conscious and frustrated with her weight.
Determined to make a change, Ivanna joined Slimming World, although she was initially sceptical about its Food Optimising plan. “How can a plan that allows you to eat unlimited carbs possibly work?” she recalled thinking. After trying the plan for a week, she returned to her group and was surprised to learn she had lost 6.5 pounds, igniting a new belief in her ability to lose weight.
Over the following year, Ivanna adopted healthier eating habits and started cooking simple meals, like spaghetti bolognese, from scratch. Her efforts paid off, and she lost 4 stone.
In 2018, Ivanna discovered she was pregnant again, which raised concerns about maintaining her progress. However, her Slimming World consultant reassured her, explaining that the organization collaborates with the Royal College of Midwives to support expectant mothers in their nutritional journeys. Ivanna welcomed her second daughter, Aamiliah-Zayn, followed by her son, Shakeel, in 2020.
During the COVID-19 lockdown, Ivanna focused on preparing healthy meals, which contributed to her ongoing weight loss. By the end of lockdown, she weighed 12 stone 7 pounds. Today, at 9 stone 9.5 pounds, Ivanna is 8 stone 6.5 pounds lighter. She now enjoys playing with her children at the park, stating, “I can take the kids on all the rollercoasters – the bigger, the better, I fit in all of them!”
Ivanna’s journey is a testament to her determination and the effectiveness of Slimming World’s approach to weight management. She now feels empowered and proud of her achievements, stating, “I’m reclaiming my life and setting my children up for a healthy, happy future.” Her health has significantly improved, with no more concerns about pre-diabetes.
Ivanna’s inspiring transformation underscores the importance of support and commitment in achieving personal health goals.
