Need A Reset? Make A Healthy Change & Reach Your Weight Loss Goals
I am now a trim 172 pounds, any my body is settling into this new number quite nicely. Since I was hovering in or around the 200-205 pound range when I started, it sounds really good to say that I have dropped 30 pounds with Steph’s assistance.
My weight has fluctuated a lot throughout the years. In high school (and for the first week of university) I usually tipped the scales around 180 pounds. I didn’t feel like I could gain much weight. However, with university came making my own food more often, easier access to fast food, and partying. Along with that came (at least) an extra twenty pounds. I maxed out at 205 in second year (all of my friends did too, and I remember us taking pride in this!?!) and I don’t think I stepped on a scale for 15 years after that. I’m not sure why - I guess I just accepted the fact that university was a weight gaining experience, and that one day I would lose those extra pounds.
After university came work, marriage, and kids. All great things, but eating well and exercising took a back seat. Sure, there were times when I think I dipped down toward the 190 pound range, but they were few and far between. I was still eating and drinking with little regard for my health. Sure, I was running, and I ran a few half marathons and a full marathon in those years when my kids were under 10. However, I still wasn’t eating well, so everything just balanced out (a typical ‘Guy-et,’ so-to-speak). There was something missing. I didn’t have a scale either. I didn’t believe in them (and I’m still not a fan, but I’ll get back to that later). I always figured that how I felt was more important than the number on the scale, and I didn’t feel terrible when I was eating poorly and running, but I also didn’t know that I could have more balance between the two and feel even better.
When my wife joined up with Steph a few years ago, she was stepping on the scale with more regularity, and I started to as well, even though I wasn’t following her meal plan. This came with its own disappointments. I watched the fluctuations, and I often stepped on the scale at bad times (after weekends, after vacations, and after nights of partying and drinking too much). I topped out at 215 after an especially indulgent trip to Newfoundland, and once that stabilized, my new weight was now 205 and my body had settled into it. It wasn’t until I swallowed my pride and joined Steph’s program that I finally woke up. I never thought I would need a nutritionist or a nutrition coach. I’m not sure why. We didn’t eat poorly, but our weekends often ruined a week of good eating. We joined That Clean Life to build up our bank of recipes a few years back, and we ate well from Monday to Friday - but weekends would often go off the rails. However, Steph was the X-factor that bridged the gap between our mostly healthy diet and actual results.
Just sending off my daily food log to Steph kept me accountable. For the most part, our choices of meals from That Clean Life worked. Steph would tweak a few things here and ask us to lay off a few things there, just to fine tune our overall diet. She would also monitor my level of exercise, and gently encourage me to ‘get up and go’ for exercise of any intensity. In our family, we are eating our best when we plan a week in advance, and when we know what we are going to eat from day to day. Steph helped us keep that routine (which I crave), and keep our meal plans consistent so that we could avoid eating unhealthy foods as much as possible. She even gave us healthy eating options at fast food restaurants for our month long trip out west - these tips were very helpful, and they kept our weight gain on this trip to a minimum. Overall, her encouraging words and advice along the way made everything come together.
Of course my issue with weekends and less structured or routined times remained, and Steph was very understanding about this. This is life - weekends tend to take me off track, but Steph was there to get me ‘back on track’ and not let me get too down on myself when I had a bad day or two, or when the scale went the wrong way. Many of our e-mails back and forth focused on this - Steph talked me back from many of the defeating thoughts that would enter my mind after a slip up, and I will take her advice and counsel with me long after my time spent working with her. Steph continues to check in with me, even two weeks after our time was up, and I am greatly appreciative of this. She is so good at what she does.
I am now a trim 172 pounds, any my body is settling into this new number quite nicely. Since I was hovering in or around the 200-205 pound range when I started, it sounds really good to say that I have dropped 30 pounds with Steph’s assistance.
And back to the scale thing - I still don’t really believe in them, and I hate talking about numbers when it’s more important to talk about how I am feeling…but I need a concrete measure for my progress, and I will need that scale to continue my weekly weigh-ins and avoid future gains. I have always had what I call an ‘Uh-oh’ weight. Upon reaching my ‘Uh-oh’ weight, I have always said to myself that I need to buckle down and drop some pounds. At one time, my ‘Uh-oh’ weight was 200 pounds. I’m so happy and proud to say that it is now 175 pounds, and I don’t have any plans on going beyond that number.
Despite all of this, the bottom line is that I now feel great in more ways than one, and if that means I have to look at a scale every now and then as a ‘check-point,’ then so be it.
I can’t thank Steph enough for all that she has done for me. She has talked me through the food choices, the self-defeating thoughts, and the general ups and downs of this process. I hope I don’t have the need for her services again (no offence, Steph!), but if I do, I will not hesitate to re-join her. I also encourage anyone who needs to lose any amount of weight and feel 100 times better to join her and reap the benefits. Thanks so much, Steph!
Jim, Age 41
Improve Your Relationship With Food
Fast forward and here I am - a much healthier version of me and a much lighter version (50 lbs. + and counting)! Steph is a fantastic person to work with. She is always there to give support, answer any question and support you through problems.
Contacting Steph@thrivehealthnwellness.com is the best health related decision I have ever made. I have struggled with my weight and my relationship with food for as long as I can remember. Chocolate and sugar have been my best friends, and my worst enemies. I have tried, and had short lived success with many well known programs out there but it never seemed to have the long term effect I needed.
I knew I needed to do something but what? One day I noticed a Thrive Health & Wellness message. How would this be any different than the other programs I had tried? I realized that I knew a number of people who had worked with Steph in the past, years ago, that had successfully maintained their weight loss and were living extremely healthy lifestyles. Maybe it was worth a shot!
Fast forward and here I am - a much healthier version of me and a much lighter version (50 lbs. + and counting)! Steph is a fantastic person to work with. She is always there to give support, answer any question and support you through problems. What you must learn to do is ask, which isn’t always as easy as it may seem. I think one of the main reasons for my success is because of Steph’s approach. She will not give you a meal plan or a list of “dos and don’ts”. She gets to know you and your lifestyle, your likes and dislikes. Together you figure out a way to make small changes to adopt healthier practices into your existing lifestyle. Continually building on these small changes add up to great success. If/when you stumble along the way, Steph is there to dust you off and tell you that today is a new day, and not to dwell on your mistakes or the past. She helps you figure out how to be healthy, in a way that's completely realistic and maintainable. I highly recommend Steph! I couldn’t have done this without her.
Steph M
Are You Struggling To Lose Weight?
I could not have done it without Stephanie. She goes out of her way to help you, she was always encouraging, even when I enjoyed a piece of cake; the only words that she always said was “Ok, back on track tomorrow”! There was never a negative sense or word. Steph would put it this way “You know, you have to live too and you can enjoy the things you like but all in moderation”!
I have been struggling to lose weight for quite some time. I tried on my own, followed some tips, changed my grocery list to buy more healthy foods, left out snacks and sweets, but I still could not lose those pounds. Yes, I admit I have a sweet tooth for ice cream, cakes and cookies, especially around Christmas time. I could not say “No” to all those goodies. Another thing that really bothered me was having to buy bigger clothes, from a size 10 to XL or a size 16. Wearing a bathing suit made me feel uncomfortable also unless I was in my own backyard.
One day, when my husband very nicely hinted that I should try and loose a few pounds, it finally hit me. So one day in a restaurant, it was a birthday celebration, Stephanie was there to, she is a very good friend of my daughter, and I know she had a website about nutrition. I told her about me wanting to go on a diet. Steph said all you need is a lifestyle change and if I like she would help me.
I had no idea it would all happen over E-mail. I looked at the Thrive Health & Wellness website, read some of the client testimonials and made a decision to get in tough with Stephanie. Ever since then my life has changed. I joined for an 8 week program. Stephanie guided me through, reported every day on what my food intake was and it was all done over E-mail. I had to report what I ate, when I ate and of course how much I ate. Stephanie would then make suggestions on what to buy and what not to eat or aim for a healthier version.
For me it was very encouraging, educational and at the same time motivating. I learned a lot about food choices, healthy snacks and balanced meals. If I was not sure, she would always be there to give me advice or make a suggestion. Every Friday morning I would send my weight in and I could see the pounds coming off week by week. I started with 183.7 pounds and now after 8 weeks I am happy to say that I have lost 14.3 pounds.
I could not have done it without Stephanie. She goes out of her way to help you, she was always encouraging, even when I enjoyed a piece of cake; the only words that she always said was “Ok, back on track tomorrow”! There was never a negative sense or word. Steph would put it this way “You know, you have to live too and you can enjoy the things you like but all in moderation”!
So Stephanie I thank you so much for being there for me, for giving me the support and motivation in those 8 weeks. I am still in touch with Stephanie, but I am continuing to lose a few more pounds on my own. I am happy to say that I am down 17.8 pounds total since starting with Stephanie mid March! She gave me the tools to make it happen and YES I will reach my goals!
If anyone out there needs help and support in losing some pounds, Stephanie is the one and I recommend her to anyone!
Heidi, Age 67
Reduce Your Stress Levels & Improve Your Health
Wow!! Thanks to Steph I feel better, have lost almost 20 lbs. and can manage all the stresses in my life much better.
Looking after me journey.
Every day was a struggle to get out of bed and function. I had a lot of stress in my life that was starting to affect me physically and mentally. I had a stressful job, which I love, supporting children with behaviour challenges, I was looking after a sick family member and I myself have Rheumatoid Arthritis which in itself challenges me on a daily basis.
I have never been one to give in or give up but I needed some help as my weight was climbing from stress eating and I knew that was not going to be good for my health. I had been on steroids for many years trying to control the disease and had gained 30 lbs. and it was on its way to 40. I had tried many different ways to lose the weight. It was as if my metabolism had been shut off as nothing was working to move the scale. I knew that if I could take 10 lbs. off that would be 50 lbs. of pressure off my joints and hopefully assist with controlling the pain.
I saw a friend of mine had tried Thrive Health and Wellness and I decided that I needed to do this for me, so I made an investment. Wow!! Thanks to Steph I feel better, have lost almost 20 lbs. and can manage all the stresses in my life much better.
Steph supported me daily and guided me to make better choices for food. She provided me with the education I needed to gain back control of my body and provide it with the nourishment it needed to feel better. The best part about Steph's guidance is that is all from the comfort of your home. No visits, no appointments and takes really no time out of your day to make a difference. Thank you Steph!
Mary Jane, Age 52
Learn Quick & Easy Ways To Prepare Healthy Meals
Knowing what is best for a diet is in my opinion one of Steph's greatest assets. And that is what helped me the most. Anyone who takes Steph's advice and encouragement seriously will definitely lose that weight!!!! I did and so can you!
Steph is a great teacher and friend. Not only has she helped me learn about and assist me with my weight loss. Steph has also taught me easy and quick ways to prepare healthy and great meals. Portion sizes have always been an adversary of mine and Steph always does her best to give a chin up and keep at it attitude when I would submit my daily meal log, giving great suggestions on which ways to tweak meals to best benefit me. Which almost always ended up resulting in a weight loss for the week.
Knowing what is best for a diet is in my opinion one of Steph's greatest assets. And that is what helped me the most. Anyone who takes Steph's advice and encouragement seriously will definitely lose that weight!!!! I did and so can you!
Sean is down 14 pounds and looking great!!
Sean, Age 35
Improve Your Cardiovascular Health Through Nutrition & Exercise
I have learned how to shop, meal plan for the week as well as eat balanced meals, and snacks to provide my body with what it needs to live a healthy life.
I have been a volunteer Fire Fighter for nearly 9 years and I was in the process of trying out for the Water Rescue team. I thought I was in ok shape and that I ate well, until one day I was running to the fire hall for a call and I had to stop and catch my breath before putting my bunker gear on. I knew then that I needed to get into better shape.
I was very hesitant to call Steph and ask for help, because I figured there wouldn’t be any support or that I would be made to feel inadequate. I am a purchasing manager for a very large company and sit at a desk most of the day, so physical activity was Nil. Steph took the time to find out who I was, what my eating habits were, and what my goals were. She then helped design a menu around my likes and dislikes that was easy as I have a very busy schedule (life, kids, sports). We then designed a workout routine in order to meet my goals that would fit into my very busy life.
Steph is great at giving you encouragement when you need it and the “how did you enjoy that” when you strayed away from your plan and she would encourage me to stay on track. It helped having to be accountable to someone for everything I ate. If I had any questions Steph was available and would have the answer or find out the answer for me very quickly. Even when we were finished with our sessions, Steph would send a text to find out how things were going. I have learned how to shop, meal plan for the week as well as eat balanced meals, and snacks to provide my body with what it needs to live a healthy life.
I now currently go to the gym everyday for between 2 – 2.5hrs working on everything from weight training, cardio, and flexibility. My family (wife, kids) have even started to join me with the healthy eating and the gym. I would highly recommend Steph if you’re looking to learn healthy eating, get back in shape, or if you just need someone to help motivate you.
I have lost over 30lbs and I feel great! Thanks Steph!!!
Glen, Age 43
Challenge Yourself Every Day
As a gym owner, you need to look the part. I have always had more energy then everyone else I know, but I never necessarily looked like most people expect a gym owner “should”. So, I decided it was time to lean out, and I enlisted the help from Steph of thrive Health & Wellness, and the results speak for themselves.
My journey through fitness and health has literally been all over the map. I walked into dynafit as a short, fat, 14-year-old high school student, with no idea of what I wanted to accomplish, nor how to get there, and only knowing I didn’t want to look the way I looked any longer. What I didn’t know was how it would turn into a trek that some say defines me.
Fast forward over twenty years and a lot has been accomplished. From running three ultramarathons, performing two strongman events, and now a habitual yogi and general health buff, my journey has been truly remarkable.
My activity based, fundraising efforts for charity, have been very well documented and have come with a lot of anxiety leading up to the events, and incredible small town recognition following their completion. When the dust settled after our latest charity event, carrying the back end of a car through our local Paddyfest parade, I knew it was time to get back to training FOR ME!
As a gym owner, you need to look the part. I have always had more energy then everyone else I know, but I never necessarily looked like most people expect a gym owner “should”. So, I decided it was time to lean out, and I enlisted the help from Steph of thrive Health & Wellness, and the results speak for themselves. I am the leanest and lightest I have been in my adult life. With Steph’s knowledge, guidance, and amazing tasting meal plans, along with strength coaching from Marc St Pierre of Goals Training, yoga instruction from Tam Hamilton & Charlene Hodson, pre-made meals from Life’s A Party, co-workers who support me, and lastly, a mindset that you should never stop trying to learn and improve, I am the happiest I have ever been! Not because of how I look however, but because I still have more energy then everyone else I know, I am thinking clearly, sleeping well, crushing business, giving back to my community, and most importantly, I feel I am setting a good example for my God daughter to look up to.
Thank you to everyone who has helped me along my journey. dynafit, the coaches listed above, my family, friends, strangers along the side of the road, and all the doubters who have come along and have since shut up.
Chris, Age 35
Improve Digestion & Increase Energy Through Nutrition
After a week of mindful eating, I noticed that the bloating was gone. Soon, I realized I'm no longer exhausted at 10am or even 2pm! Eventually I noticed the scale start to reflect my new lifestyle. To date I have dropped 20 lbs. I feel more energized and confident, and I no longer mindlessly grab two donuts in one day off the staffroom table, or devour an entire bag of chips in front of the TV.
My eating habits have never been good. But it never bothered me.
In fact, for a long time I was one of those annoying people who could eat whatever they wanted, whenever they wanted, without gaining any weight…and being six feet tall, even if I did, I figured no one would ever notice. So I never worried about my weight. I never owned a scale, and was only ever weighed at the doctor's office when I had a physical. My weight wouldn't fluctuate even a pound in one year.
But it wasn't really my weight that brought me to Stephanie Metzger; it was my health. I have always felt low energy, particularly in the morning. There were times when I would be driving the short ten minutes to work and I'd have to wonder if I would make it without pulling over for a nap. I felt bloated and had a variety of minor digestive issues over the years. I'd have mystery aches and pains and irritations that my doctor couldn't really explain. On top of all that, I have a history of heart disease and diabetes in my family. My Dad had his first of three heart attacks at 46…I will be 44 this month. It was, quite simply, time.
I met Stephanie at a wellness retreat that I signed up for only because I knew my Mom would like it. It included a half hour nutritional consult with Stephanie, from Thrive Health and Wellness. Before the half hour was up, I was confident Stephanie could help me. She offered practical suggestions and alternatives for things I enjoyed eating that were causing me problems. She was enthusiastic about her lifestyle and her enthusiasm made me believe I could change.
I bought a scale for the first time and realized I was 12 pounds heavier than what I considered to be my "normal" weight…which was probably already 10 pounds more than it should be. Stephanie taught me to really think about food; a concept, which completely flummoxed me at times. It's second nature to me now that I've had Stephanie's guidance for the last 8 weeks.
After a week of mindful eating, I noticed that the bloating was gone. Soon, I realized I'm no longer exhausted at 10am or even 2pm! Eventually I noticed the scale start to reflect my new lifestyle. To date I have dropped 20 lbs. I feel more energized and confident, and I no longer mindlessly grab two donuts in one day off the staffroom table, or devour an entire bag of chips in front of the TV. Foods I thought I couldn't do without no longer find their way into my pantry, and I'm trying new foods all the time. Stephanie was always just a text away to offer support and solutions.
If you're thinking about changing your relationship with food, stop thinking and call Stephanie today. Anyone who has ever met me will tell you that if I can do it, anyone can!
Tara, Age 43
Get The Accountability You Need To Lose Weight & Reach Your Goals
If you're considering Thrive Health and Wellness don't wait any longer, you won't regret it. Steph is amazing to work with, I have lost more weight since August than I ever have, my journey isn’t over yet and with the support and tools I've received I know that I will reach my goal.
I started my journey with Steph in August 2016. I had tried losing weight on my own and using different programs with minimal success. I wasn't sure this program would work, after all nothing else had. I decided to try it anyways and learned right away just how different it is from all the others. Steph is right there beside you every step of the way. Accountability is what makes working with Steph different from the others. There were so many times I wanted to eat something I really shouldn't have and the thought of having to put it in my daily log was enough for me to walk away. There were times that I did eat the piece of cake anyways and Steph would reply with a gentle "I'm glad you enjoyed, let's get back on track today".
Steph is always available and replies to questions quickly. She will look up menus of the restaurant you are at and give excellent suggestions. Steph will share recipes and review any you send to her and give suggestions to make it a better option. When you are frustrated she will encourage you to keep going and help you get where you want to be. Steph helped me realize the number on the scale isn’t the only indicator of success, being down 3 sizes feels really good! Activity also plays a role and with Steph's encouragement I have gone from someone who could barely run for 2 minutes on the treadmill to easily running for 30!
If you're considering Thrive Health and Wellness don't wait any longer, you won't regret it. Steph is amazing to work with, I have lost more weight since August than I ever have, my journey isn’t over yet and with the support and tools I've received I know that I will reach my goal.
Laurie, Age 43
Lose Weight The Healthy Way
I have lost 23 lbs. and approximately 18”. These are permanent results! I am extremely happy with the way Steph has guided me and inspired me.
I want to start off by saying there is no magic pill, protein shake, or workout regime that is going to give you any long-term results. The most crucial part of taking the weight off is diet. You have probably heard that before, so let me say it again - DIET IS KEY. I have been on so many diets in my life from no/low-carb, to having meals delivered to my door. Of course they are strict and if you stick to them they all work, but they’re very hard to sustain. Steph’s plan is nothing like any of these. It literally is a lifestyle. I realized that because I have been yo-yoing all my life and have allowed myself to gain and lose massive amounts of weight, I have to be careful with what I eat most of the time. I have to think about what goes into my body and I have to exercise regularly to reach my goals and just as importantly, maintain the lifestyle when I do. The best part is that I didn’t even have to give up pizza or chocolate!! If you’ve ever been referred to a traditional nutritionist, you were probably handed a Canadian Food Guide and sent on your way. Steph doesn’t work that way. She is there for you every step of the way.
After having my baby, I was having an extremely hard time focusing on losing the pregnancy weight. I started looking at pre pregnancy photos and getting sad that I didn’t look the way I used to. Steph knew I was frustrated and immediately took me under her wing. She helps me tweak my eating habits to more nutritious options. I don’t have to count calories and there’s virtually no measuring. She motivates me every day to keep going. Her advice on the foods I should and shouldn’t be consuming is very helpful and I’m learning so much about food as I go. I was painfully surprised how horrible my diet was when I started recording what I consume and was given a dose of reality.
I have been on this journey since January, but allowing school and life in general get in the way, I wasn’t always sticking to my plan. Because I’m going at my own pace, I have been consistently losing or maintaining, so I know the weight that has come off is going to stay off. I have lost 23 lbs. and approximately 18”. These are permanent results! I am extremely happy with the way Steph has guided me and inspired me. Losing weight is a process and a learning curve. There’s no quick fix that lasts. This is something that if you really want it, you have to work at it and focus. I’m still on my weight loss journey and I know that I will reach my goals. I also know that Steph will be here to help me every step of the way :) I can promise you this…you won’t be disappointed if you work with Steph!
Brigid, Age 34
Have You Hit A Plateau? Learn How To Keep Things Moving
Steph helped me re-evaluate some long held beliefs about some foods and gave me a lot of cooking tips and recipes to work with so I can continue the plan into the future.
In July 2016 after a year of being on a weight loss plateau, my trainer at Dynafit recommended I try working with Steph at Thrive Health and Wellness. The timing was perfect. I was at my wits' end trying to figure out what else to adjust in my diet. Steph met with me to discuss my concerns with an online nutrition program and to get an idea of what my goals were, my likes, dislikes and nutritional knowledge. Steph provided me comprehensive questionnaire and asked me to commit to daily food logs, weekly weigh-ins and general communication. When Steph reviewed the questionnaire, she provided me a starting point and from that point to the last day of the program she would either provide on the spot recommendations, encouragement for good choices or suggestions about what to try in the future. When I hit a wall during the program and my weight didn't move, she recommended some minor adjustments and her insight paid off.
In July 2016 after a year of being on a weight loss plateau, my trainer at Dynafit recommended I try working with Steph at Thrive Health and Wellness. The timing was perfect. I was at my wits' end trying to figure out what else to adjust in my diet. Steph met with me to discuss my concerns with an online nutrition program and to get an idea of what my goals were, my likes, dislikes and nutritional knowledge. Steph provided me comprehensive questionnaire and asked me to commit to daily food logs, weekly weigh-ins and general communication. When Steph reviewed the questionnaire, she provided me a starting point and from that point to the last day of the program she would either provide on the spot recommendations, encouragement for good choices or suggestions about what to try in the future. When I hit a wall during the program and my weight didn't move, she recommended some minor adjustments and her insight paid off.
As a person over the age of 50, with some chronic injuries to work around boosting my activities at the gym is not an easy alternative. Steph respected, understood and worked with me and my physical and metabolic realities. Steph helped me re-evaluate some long held beliefs about some foods and gave me a lot of cooking tips and recipes to work with so I can continue the plan into the future. I know that if I get stuck on another plateau I can reach out to Steph and we can do another session and she will always be there to answer any questions.
I am committed to a stable healthy weight. I have yo-yo dieted in the past and the hardest thing ever was to acknowledge that past and decide that I am not a yo-yo and to take ownership and get the expert help I needed to move ahead with my weight loss plan. In the 12 weeks that I worked with Steph, I lost a total of 12 pounds and 6 inches! Although the number on the scale doesn’t reflect a big weight loss, my body has completely changed and I feel fantastic!
Loretta, Age 54
Eat Healthy, Lose Weight, Improve Your Energy Levels & Boost Your Mood
Steph helped to tweak my eating habits... taught me portion control... and most of all taught me that it's ok to treat yourself... live your life... in moderation. She has talked me off the junk food ledge a few times! She is always available when I need her. Thanks for giving me my life back Steph!
Midpoint:
So for the longest time I was feeling ugh about myself. I thought that I was eating relatively healthy & I'm constantly active with what I do for a living. So I was stuck in this mindset that since I am so active, I could snack on chips & licorice whenever I wanted to because I would just burn it off later. Um, no. Wrong mindset. My clothes were starting to fit snuggly & I was starting to lack in energy. Just felt blah. I talked to a good friend of mine & she recommended that I contact Steph. So I did. And she is amazing! It's only been 5 weeks & I feel so good... different... energized... happy! Fitting into clothes that I haven't been able to wear in almost 2 years!! Steph helped to tweak my eating habits... taught me portion control... and most of all taught me that it's ok to treat yourself... live your life... in moderation. She has talked me off the junk food ledge a few times! She is always available when I need her. Thanks for giving me my life back Steph!
Final:
So, I have been trying to lose 10 lbs. for the longest time! Eating relatively healthy, I'm constantly moving in my job, and at home I'm chasing the dog or my boy... cutting the lawn... I don't sit still often... but the weight just wouldn't go & I was actually gaining. Oi. So frustrating. The harder I tried & obsessed about it, the worse it got. Until I was at my highest weight ever…and feeling awful. No energy. Not happy. I remember eating a bag of chips one day for lunch, seriously…the whole thing. I had hit rock bottom. I started researching these different weight loss programs & knowing flat out, that it would just be a temporary fix. Then I came across testimonials from people that I knew, who had worked with Steph. It was 10pm on a Sunday night & I thought now or never, I needed to do something. So I emailed Steph & immediately heard back from her. She assessed me & started working on a plan right away. It was crazy. Just like that. Here we go. It's been 11 weeks & I have dropped 4 pant sizes & have lost 16 pounds. And it was all about what I was eating & my portions... and water! I was neglectful in my water intake for sure!! There were days where I'm sure I was only drinking 4-5 cups a day... not good! Now I'm drinking 10-12 cups. I feel ah-mazing! Energized. Happy. Steph was always there when I needed her... questions about last minute dinner plans; she would research the menu & let me know my options. Or grabbing groceries & wanting to try new things, Steph would message me back right away. Right from day 1, she referred to this as a lifestyle change not a diet. And that's exactly what it is. It almost feels like starting over with food... like when you're a kid and you try new things. It's so easy to get stuck in a rut eating things that aren't so great for you but you do it because life is busy & that just works for you. But you deserve better. You deserve to feel good & be happy. If you're sick & tired of feeling meh, I highly recommend contacting Steph... It's one of the best things I've ever done for myself.
Tash, Age 38
Eat Well To Improve Your Athletic Performance
Steph was always very involved, supportive & helpful. She really did keep me motivated to continue with my program and has helped me change myself for the better.
On May 9th, 2016 I began my lifestyle change. After finishing my freshman year at UOIT, which included me playing for the women's hockey team, I decided to change my lifestyle for the betterment of my body & overall health. As a result, I decided to work a nutritionist & lifestyle coach. This person would be Steph Metzger, the owner of Thrive Health & Wellness. At my heaviest weight I was 174 pounds. I was constantly eating fried foods, larger portions than necessary & other unhealthy foods while living in dorms.
Once I was home, I started by telling Steph many details about myself & eating habits, which included what I would eat and wouldn't eat. Steph worked around this and gave me great suggestions. She helped me select foods that were healthier choices when grocery shopping or when eating at a restaurant.
With the healthier food choices and the workouts assigned to me by the team’s trainer, the weight started to come off. I ended the summer at a weight of 152 pounds. Overall, my body feels better and I have a noticed improvements on the ice & off at teamwork outs.
Steph was always very involved, supportive & helpful. She really did keep me motivated to continue with my program and has helped me change myself for the better. I strongly encourage any person wanting to make a lifestyle change to contact Steph, especially students that have to eat from a meal plan. Steph can help you to make better choices before the selections affect you like they did me.
Taylor, Age 20
Eating Well & Making Healthy Changes Can Be Easy
I always thought I was eating fairly healthy, but with Steph's help she showed me some easy tweaks and changes that really brought my weight loss goals closer to reality.
I always thought I was eating fairly healthy, but with Steph's help she showed me some easy tweaks and changes that really brought my weight loss goals closer to reality. I was able to take meals that I already enjoyed and tweak them to be something that was now a healthy version for both me and my family.
I always believed if I went to the gym I didn't need to worry about eating, however this program showed me how important the nutrition side is. I have had several failed tries at going to the gym, and I have finally put both fitness and nutrition together. I have lost over 20 pounds and feel much better with a lot more energy.
Thank you to Steph for making this so easy and showing me how not to make this a diet, but a true lifestyle change.
Kevin, Age 30
Make A Healthy Change Together
Steph’s daily support and encouragement, even after we completed the program, is what makes her program so successful. We look and feel better now than we ever have.
Thank you to Steph for teaching us a better way to eat, life and thrive! Your daily support and encouragement, even after we completed the program is what makes your program so successful. We look and feel better now than we ever have.
I have successfully dropped below the 170 mark thanks to Steph and I have lost a total of 25 pounds in the three months that we have worked together. More importantly than the number, I feel better mentally and this helps me with my day-to-day stress. It’s amazing how much easier the program gets the longer I stick with it. I have been called a “Neanderthal” before so it’s only fitting that eating like one fits me so well! If you can’t trace a food back to its origin, don’t eat it. Thanks again for all your help and support. Alisia and I really appreciate it.
Matt & Alisia, Age 32 & 34
Make Your Health A Priority - Eat Well & Stay Active
With Steph's help I was able to find the foods that really triggered my upset stomachs and find ways to replace the cravings for those foods with healthy options with no adverse effects.
Over the last few years I had let a lot of my health and wellness priorities slip. After turning 30 in November and quitting smoking (again) in December I realized that enough was enough. I had constant upset stomachs, low energy and didn't enjoy going to the gym on the rare occasion that I did anymore.
I went to Steph in February to start on a 6 week program to get things back on track. Just even the initial assessment with Steph got the wheels turning. Steph looked at every aspect of my diet, daily routine and general health then gave many detailed suggestions and feedback as well as helped set some realistic goals.
The first couple weeks were difficult for sure, but Steph's expert advice and constant encouragement definitely pushed me through them. I started seeing the pounds come off right away but more importantly I started to feel and sleep so much better after just a couple weeks.
Steph's daily contact was such a great motivator to make healthy choices and a reminder of why I chose to make this lifestyle change to begin with. With Steph's help I was able to find the foods that really triggered my upset stomachs and find ways to replace the cravings for those foods with healthy options with no adverse effects.
With all that energy back I was able to get back into a regular gym routine. For the first time in a very long time I am going consistently 5 or 6 times a week, building confidence, pushing limits and loving it.
Thank you so much Steph! I am excited to continue shattering new goals and making more progress. This is only the beginning!
I would definitely encourage anyone thinking about working with Steph to do so!
Vanessa, Age 30
On The Road Every Day For Work? Learn How To Eat Healthy & Stay On Track
Steph gives you the confidence and the ability to believe in yourself by changing your eating habits and food choices. The nutriton knowledge I have gained from Stephanie will help me the rest of my life. I would definitely recommend Stephanie for a lifestyle change.
I came to Stephanie 8 weeks ago, skeptical that nutrition would be the difference in weight loss for me.
As a sales rep on the road, driving a vehicle all day and taking clients out for lunches and dinners, I had gained a substantial amount of weight.
With the guidance of Stephanie on nutrition and through exercise, I have lost 20 lbs. in 8 weeks. I have developed better eating habits and feel great about myself. She even helped my wife and me choosing the proper foods in a grocery store one afternoon. That kind of service and personal touch is what makes Stephanie’s approach so special.
She gives you the confidence and the ability to believe in yourself by changing your eating habits and food choices. This knowledge on nutrition that I have gained from Stephanie will help me the rest of my life. I would definitely recommend Stephanie for a lifestyle change.
Everett, Age 54
Make A True Lifestyle Change & Reach Your Goals
My body liked to sit happily at a certain weight that's about 5-10lbs more than where I wanted it to be - and those of you that are close to your goal know how hard it gets to reach those last few pounds! I knew I needed some help in the form of direction & accountability. Enter Steph!
I'm thrilled with my results, though small for some - they are big for me! I've carried 3 kiddos, and I'm smaller now than before I had kids!
My weight/fitness has been up and down a lot over the past 8 childbearing years, but generally when I set my mind to losing weight I was successful. However it would never stay off. Over the past 2 years I really have been unable to stick to anything. Whether that be an exercise routine, or clean eating habits. My body liked to sit happily at a certain weight that's about 5-10lbs more than where I wanted it to be - and those of you that are close to your goal know how hard it gets to reach those last few pounds! I knew I needed some help in the form of direction & accountability. Enter Steph!
We began the 6 week nutrition program with me simply sending food logs to Steph every day, and her critiquing them. So using the foods my family and me were already eating - and tweaking them into a balanced meal. No bun here, add protein there, skip that, add this. I did not want a strict meal plan, guidelines or recipes - I needed it to be easy and that was not a problem at all for Steph. The plan was to lose the unwanted weight (I'm almost at my goal!), and now I'm moving onto toning and maintaining! In the end I lost 5lbs in 6 weeks, which is a big deal for me!
I was never hungry (aside from busting some cheese & chocolate cravings in the first week!), I have more energy, my clothes fit me better, and I feel great. All from nutrition! I know how to create a truly balanced meal, and I learned a boat load about portion control (read the serving size on the side of the box whaaaa?!). Right from the beginning exercise was optional and I'm not going to lie... I didn't exercise much! They say it's 90% food, 10% exercise right? This just goes to show that's a VERY true statement! Thrilled with my results, and planning to keep chugging right along! Thanks Steph!
Kahley, Age 32
Stop The Roller Coaster - Learn To Lose Weight & Maintain It
Steph taught me that even when you think you are making healthy choices, they might actually be hindering your weight loss goals. Portion control and frequency is a major part of the equation.
THRIVE!!!! EXACTLY WHAT I NEEDED!
I've always though that I was living a "somewhat" healthy lifestyle as I regularly workout and watch what I eat. My weight has forever been a roller coaster. Lose 5 pounds, gain 6, lose 4, etc.
Steph taught me that even when you think you are making healthy choices, they might actually be hindering your weight loss goals. Portion control and frequency is a major part of the equation.
In the grand scheme of things I never felt hungry or had cravings like I once did, as I was eating the proper food to fuel and satisfy my body. I actually ate more and lost weight and inches!
Steph held me accountable and was my voice of reasoning at times when I felt that I had failed myself in making the right choices...’OK, so you ate ice cream, enjoyed it :)...tomorrow is a new day to get back on track...keep focused on your short and long-term goals.’ Over the 8 weeks that we worked together I have lost a total of 17 inches and 16 pounds!
Thank you Steph for your guidance and wisdom but for of all for helping my find this abundance of energy :) Forever grateful!
Jehn, Age 33
Working Out, Eating Well And Still Not Getting The Results You Want?
The part that I loved that most was being able to contact Steph 24/7, about anything! She was extremely motivational, and I feel like she thoroughly got to know me throughout the program.
I heard about Stephanie’s program through a friend, and from seeing her amazing results I decided I’d give it a try. I had been going to the gym, and always thought that I was eating decent, but never seemed to lose weight.
Once starting with Steph I learned the right things to eat, when to eat, as well as what to do to work out. I did Steph’s program for 2 months, and lost a total of 30 pounds. The part that I loved that most was being able to contact Steph 24/7, about anything! She was extremely motivational, and I feel like she thoroughly got to know me throughout the program.
I highly recommend Steph and this program to anyone interested. It was a great learning experience and I feel a lot better about myself inside, and out.
Amber Age 23