Senior social news reporter Zahna Eklund weighed nearly 107kg at her heaviest. After a wake-up call from her doctor, she turned her life around and is now 20kg lighter, reaping the benefits of her new lifestyle.
How It All Started
Zahna had been overweight for most of her life. A phone call with her doctor pushed her to make important changes. She had tried dieting before and failed, but this time was different. In August 2025, after her 30th birthday, her doctor told her she could no longer be prescribed the combined contraceptive pill due to her high BMI. At 106.7kg (16st 12lb), she knew she had to act.
With her GP's recommendation, she signed up for a 12-week online weight loss course. Nine months later, she weighs 87kg (13st 9lb), the lightest she has been in her adult life. She is still medically obese but proud of her progress.
Four Key Changes
1. Cutting Down on Carbs
Due to PCOS and insulin resistance, Zahna limits refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta. She now ensures each meal includes one carbohydrate (usually wholegrain), a protein, and vegetables, focusing more on protein. She does not count calories, keeping only a loose track of her intake.
2. Getting More Exercise
Zahna started with gentle movement like evening walks while listening to audiobooks. Now she alternates between aerobics classes in her garden and kettlebell workouts on YouTube, plus at least one hour-long walk at the weekend. She avoids the gym but finds YouTube a great resource for all skill levels.
3. Drinking More Water
Previously, her liquid intake was fruit juice, full-sugar energy drinks, and fizzy drinks. Now she uses sugar-free flavouring cubes to make water more palatable, drinking 1.6 to 3.2 litres daily. She limits energy drinks and fizzy drinks to weekends, choosing sugar-free options.
4. Learning Not to Be So Hard on Herself
The biggest lesson: not punishing herself for slip-ups. She allows herself occasional treats like pizza or cake without feeling she has ruined her progress. Consistency, not perfection, is key.
Zahna concludes that enjoying life while staying on track is essential. Her journey shows that sustainable changes, not strict diets, lead to lasting results.
