Chrissie, Busy Mom of 4, Lost 25 Pounds in Just 8 Weeks!

I first contacted Steph after flipping through some of her client success stories. My weight had been around the same number for a long time, fluctuating a bit from time to time and through 4 pregnancies. I considered myself relatively active - not working out at a gym, but busying myself around home, the farm and chasing kids. I felt like I had (some) energy, but still had a bloated and 'blah' feeling often. I considered ourselves to be relatively healthy eaters, indulging now and then, but after we had kids our eating habits started to revolve around what the kids were least fussy about and mindless snacking. 

The initial assessment was very overwhelming with tons of information, but Steph was very supportive in answering the many questions I had. She was always available and quick to answer questions, even when I was out grocery shopping. Being accountable to Steph with daily food logs was a huge motivator in making good food choices. She never made me feel like I had failed when I indulged with some dessert, a drink, or a meal out. Meal planning has also been a huge factor in our success - she is armed with plenty of recipe resources that even appealed to my kids. 

I had initially set a weight loss goal of 20lbs for the 8 weeks I worked with Steph, but talked myself into being 'ok' if I didn't make it to that goal. As each week passed, my clothes became looser, I felt like I had more energy, and I lost that 'blah' and bloated feeling. I was able to lose 25lbs over the 8 weeks, strictly by changing what and how I was eating, and I've continued to lose more since. I feel confident in the tools and knowledge that Steph has provided me with to maintain my new weight. 

Thank you Steph for not making this a dreaded diet, but a true lifestyle change! 

Chrissie, Age 34 & Mom of 4!

COVID Lockdown - Tips To Prevent Weight Gain & TO Stay On Track

Have you put on weight over the past year with the pandemic and the lockdowns? So much stress, fear and uncertainty, surrounds us every day - it's only natural to be thrown off your game.

You may have:

• More demands at home - kids at home with virtual learning, trying to balance your job with home schooling, trying to make meals for everyone and keep up with things around the house.

• Less time - with your busy schedule and trying to get into a new routine, it's hard to find time in the day to plan and prepare healthy meals and to get any activity in.

• Added Stress/Emotional Anxiety - absolutely, everyone is feeling some sort of stress and a wide range of emotions with everything going on in the world and in their own lives right now. Being in lockdown and not having control is enough to make anyone go a little crazy! Hormone imbalances, stress eating and over indulging along with the inactivity is a recipe for weight gain.

• Lack of Connection - humans need physical contact and to connect with friends and family on a regular basis. This time has made it very hard on everyone. Isolation, lack of social events/interaction and being unable to comfort loved ones when they are sick/struggling...all are taking a toll. Who would have thought that hugging, shaking hands or walking past someone on the street would be so awkward and risky.

• Increased Alcohol Consumption - it's no secret that people are consuming more alcohol being stuck at home and unable to go out and socialize. The added stress and potential boredom with being stuck at home can also increase peoples need or want to drink.

• Who knows how much longer we are going to be in lockdown and in this state of emergency. Don't let this pandemic prevent you from reaching you goals! Find a way to stay focused on being healthy, happy and positive - the one thing you can control right now is your mindset, what you eat and what you do with your day.

Here are some ways to fight weight gain through this lockdown!

1. Get Active - the nice weather is finally here, which will make it a lot easier to get outside! Make time every day to get some activity in - get out for a walk, hike, run or bike ride. Play in the park or your backyard with the kids. Anything to get you moving. There are lots of great exercise/yoga programs/videos that you can do at home as well! Make activity a priority every day. This will improve your mood and energy levels and will also help prevent weight gain.

2. Make sure that you have lots of healthy foods in the house. Take some time to meal plan each week and focus on making good choices as often as you can. Make your meals and home vs. ordering in. Try to keep the junk foods/sweets out of the house. Get into a good routine with your meals and be mindful of your portions. The better you eat, the better you will feel.

3. Get lots of water in each day! Stay hydrated.

4. Reduce/Manage Stress - find a healthy way to keep your stress levels in check each day. Outdoors, exercise, yoga, mindfulness/meditation apps, deep breathing, reading, essential oils, baths, quiet time. Anything to put you in a good frame of mind. Do your best not to reach for food or alcohol to help manage your stress.

5. Sleep Well - get into a good sleep routine. Aim for a good 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Your mind and body need this time to reset.

Take things one day at a time. Keep focused on your goals and work towards them every day! Stay strong and positive - be the best YOU that you can be.

Stay healthy and stay safe! ❤️

Lose Weight & Drop Dress Sizes - Stacy Lost 33 Pounds For Her Sister's Wedding

I've always struggled with my weight; gaining then losing and gaining back again. I didn't like the extra weight, but I was comfortable with myself for the most part. Over the last couple years, I've had significant weight gain, putting me well over the heaviest I've ever been.  At this point it wasn't just that my clothes didn't fit; I was always uncomfortable. My breaking point was bridesmaid's dress shopping for my sister's wedding. When none of the sample dresses fit to try on, and I had to pay extra to order a plus size, I knew I had to make a change. 

I had seen Thrive on Facebook, and knew someone who had worked with Steph previously and raved about how amazing she was, so I sent her a message. 3 months and 33 pounds later, I feel amazing!  Steph made it easy. She gave me all the information and tools I needed to be successful, and was always just a message, text, or phone call away. I never felt deprived of anything, and because this is a lifestyle change and not a diet, I'm confident that the weight is off to stay. 

Thank you Steph for being such great support and kick-starting my healthy lifestyle. I couldn't have done it without you!

Stacy, Age 38

Lose Weight & Increase Your Energy Levels Through Nutrition

I contacted Steph after hearing about her from a co-worker. After having 5 kids, thyroid surgery and returning to work after 4 years off I found myself weighing the most I ever had. I was feeling sluggish and tired all the time but was struggling to lose the weight on my own. Steph was exactly what I needed! The daily food logs kept me accountable and she was always very encouraging. Even after I had finished working with her she would check in on me and help me to get back on track when I was returning to old habits. I lost 20 pounds working with Steph and feel great!

Nicole, Age 39

Trouble Losing Weight? Learn How To Eat Well & Reach Your Goals!

I joined the Thrive Health and Wellness 8 week program looking to improve a few things regarding my eating habits and general lifestyle choices. I have always had trouble achieving a healthy weight as well as knowing what are the best food choices to get there - I have tried various types of diets including keto, gluten free (not celiac), etc., with no long term results.

I really enjoyed the way Steph has built long term sustainability into the program; making sure that the choices you make are both result driven and realistic in the long run. As Steph had mentioned numerous times throughout the program, it is all about balance!

One of the things I liked most about the program and the way Steph managed it was her availability. When my wife and I were grocery shopping, Steph was always available over Facebook Messenger to answer a quick question about a type of food or product we were looking at buying or trying - this really helped us in learning what types of foods and ingredients to look for and/or avoid.

After completing the 8-week program I am down 20 pounds! I feel great, have way more energy, look great, and have a box full of tools, advice, and information to help me stay on track and continue on my sustainable healthy weight goals journey.

Mark, Age 33

Lose Baby Weight & Reach Your Goals!

I contacted Steph after seeing some of her client success stories online. My daughter was 1 month old and I knew I would need some help losing the pregnancy weight. I hadn't lost it all from my first pregnancy. The program was simple; eat healthy food and watch your portions. What helped me the most talking to Steph everyday. She kept me motivated and accountable for what I was eating. She also provided me with a workout program I can do at the gym. I have lost 20lbs with Steph's help and plan to continue following her advice on my own.

Courtney, Age 33

Make A Healthy Change For You & Your Family

It was just after our second was born, my husband and I decided we needed to make some big changes to our diet, not only for our health, but to build life long healthy habits for our sons. We hope that teaching our children healthy habits from birth, we will prevent a lifetime of yo-yo dieting and constant struggles with their weight.   

I know for myself, I have always struggled with my weight, and though I indulged in sweets from time to time, I really didn’t feel I was doing too badly when it came to my food choices. Unfortunately, my scale disagreed. I had no idea the amount of sugar, carbohydrates and other unhealthy things I was eating in my everyday choices! Steph was able to help my family make substitutes that would give our bodies the nutrients they need without sacrificing flavours. This experience has helped me strive to create healthy and delicious meals on an ongoing basis that I will continue to use to meet my weight goals. 

Thanks to Steph and her on going support, I am down 25 lbs. in 12 weeks, while my husband is down 30 lbs.! We are so grateful for Steph’s expertise, and that we took a chance to better ourselves, and ultimately make these positive changes for our children. Thank-you so much Steph!

Brittany & Dan

Lose Weight For Your Wedding Day

For my wedding preparations I had lost 15 pounds but no matter what I did, I couldn't get my weight down anymore. I had plateaued and needed help. Many co-workers told me about Steph's practice as they had lost a lot of weight and had managed to keep it off. Well it worked! I did a 6 week program with her and lost 15 pounds! She's always so positive, encouraging and helpful. You really want to do well to receive those positive accolades. My sister-in-law and her sister have now signed up to work with Steph as a result of my weight loss. She works wonders and I highly recommend her program!

Amanda, Age 35

Create New Healthy Habits & Change Your Lifestyle

I started working with Steph, again this past January as I was working towards building a better me. Before this I was becoming someone I didn’t like. I was falling into old habits and I was gaining weight more quickly than I could imagine. I knew it was time for a change. I didn’t want to feel like I wasn’t me, I wanted to go back to a time where I felt amazing, had a passion for life and just all around more energy. I returned to Steph this time with more motivation, and a drive to make a change.

After completing 1 challenge at my local gym (Dynafit) I knew it was time to put both food and fitness on the table together. If you know me, you are aware that I don’t go ½ in. I am an all in kind of girl. Working with Steph was easy. She was able to pinpoint areas in my diet that I needed changed, she gave suggestions for alternatives, and was there when I was having a tough week with encouraging words. It has been 8 months on my journey to building a better me and I am happy to say with diet, exercise, proper mindset and a wonderful team I have hit the 50 pound mark.

I can’t tell you that it was easy because it wasn’t but it has been one of the most rewarding 8 months of my life. I am stronger, I am happier, and best of all I am healthier. Even though I have hit a major milestone, my journey is not done. I still have goals to accomplish and I cannot wait to see where this journey takes me!

Nicole, Age 33

Make A Healthy Change - Set A Good Example For Your Kids

I started working with Steph in hopes of improving my overall health.  I saw first hand the impact she had on my friends' weight loss journeys and thought her program was a good fit for me.  As a mother of three young girls, I wanted to be a good role model for them.  I knew how much a parent's eating habits could influence a child.  I wanted to make changes in my eating habits as well as my family's and I looked forward to learning more about healthy eating and nutrition.  After the initial assessment, Steph provided a tremendous amount of information that would help me get off to a good start.  Over time, I grew more confident in my abilities to choose healthier food.  I gained a better understanding of how to balance my food choices throughout my day and learned about the importance of keeping hydrated.  Water is so important!

Steph was always willing to answer questions about nutrition.  She promptly answered emails and was always ready with an encouraging word.  The daily food logs kept me accountable and helped me steer away from bad food choices.  Steph was extremely encouraging when the journey became frustrating because the pounds were coming off slowly.  With time and patience, I was able to surpass my goal of losing 10 lbs.  It was made possible because of Steph's support.

Tricia, Age 42

Need Help Losing Weight? Jamie Lost 27 Pounds In Just 10 Weeks

I decided to contact Steph knowing that both of my sisters have worked with her and have had success.  For me it was purely a number thing.  Luckily being tall, I (believe) I hid my extra pounds well.  But when the scale said I was starting to near 220 I knew I needed to make a change.  I contacted Steph and decided that my wife and I would join her 10 week weight loss challenge.  I felt comfortable with the suggestions she made and knew having my wife doing it at the same time would help with the changes in eating habits.  I also have a very accommodating crew at work (as we cook and eat meals together) who were adaptive to the changes.  Steph was there every step of the way and easy to be in communication with about food choices no matter if I was grocery shopping or having to eat while out running errands or going out for dinner.  I was also able to stay on track while in Ohio for two weeks horse showing and living in a hotel.  I was already an active person but knew losing the weight would only help with competing jumping my horse but also playing recreation hockey.  The only exercise that I added was hot yoga but had already started that prior to signing on with Steph.  Steph is also very easy going in the fact that she understands we still have to live life so having a beer or two after hockey was no big deal.  That being said having to submit daily food logs to Steph definitely held you accountable for your choices.

My initial goal of 20 pounds over the 10 week seemed huge but in fact I was able to lose 27 lbs. and I am now 190 and right were I want to be and have easily been able to stay there since finishing 6 weeks ago.  As an added bonus I am happy to say I was the winner of the weight loss challenge.  I feel great and between the weight loss and yoga I am a better rider and feel better playing hockey.

If you are looking to make a change definitely reach out to Steph.

Jamie, Age 46

Lose Weight & Keep It Off For Good

Ever since I hit puberty have struggled to lose weight. I have tried many different programs, like the quick fix pill to attending weight watchers... then to tops. I would have small successes with these programs but nothing that really stuck. I would maybe lose 10-15 pounds and then I would put it back on. I then quit all together to focus on my mental health and that scale kept creeping up. I had previously inquired about working with Steph but thought it was too expensive, so I disregarded her email. Then one day out of the blue Steph messaged me. I had disregarded it for a few months again thinking it was too expensive and that I should continue to work on learning to love myself. Eventually the scale had topped a weight I have never been to yet... that was scary.

I reached out to Steph. It’s been life changing and challenging all at the same time. If anyone knows me they know I’m very stubborn and I want what I want when I want it and those old habits started creeping up again. Steph was great and we talked through those habits and I was able to move forward. My next challenge in this journey is being diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis and Steph has been a huge support in navigating my new diet to ease my symptoms. It’s been a journey and I’m excited to say I’ve lost 20 pounds so far and I’m excited to reach that goal weight I’ve been fighting to reach!!

Katie, Age 28

Eat Right To Manage Your Autoimmune Disease & To Improve Your Overall Health

So here's my story...of sorts 

The past 8 years has been a VERY long journey of disasters and trauma followed by difficult but necessary, now beautiful lessons. Along with those disasters came extreme stress coupled with PTSD which sent me into an autoimmune disease (ughhh) turning my health upside down and subsequently made me gain 40 lbs. (sigh)… Just what a now middle age lady needs right? Like it's not already hard enough for us... baby weight, acne PLUS wrinkles, all while trying to "love ourselves"... (wtf?) Its a hard road lol 

Over the past year I have been able to slowly get my health back on track losing 30 lbs on my own then plateauing... it wasn't until a friend mentioned that he was thinking of seeing a nutritionist (Steph) that I was like "hey that's totally what I need!" And since I'm a competitive person I thought "now's my chance to break out of this plateau!" and have a buddy to hold me accountable. 

We reached out to Steph and she sent a 12 page assessment in return geared specifically to moi! Obviously at first I was like "wow! That's great!" Then I was like "hmm wait... I wonder how many pages my friends was... if it's only 5 then I've got problems!" .... none the less Steph was to the rescue!! 

After 7 weeks I'm out of my plateau totally, down 9 lbs (losing an average of 1 lb a week) and minus 7 inches all over. 

Everything she gave me to do was 100% easy and attainable as well as long lasting even after the challenge is complete. For someone who doesn't enjoy cooking and food is merely for survival I tend to just not eat. This totally changed my habits and even though my eating was already for the most part pretty good, it's just so nice to have someone outside of your routine to give you fresh advice. Steph was my game changer! I was already super thankful for my friend (the one with the great idea to get our summer bods) but now I'm even more thankful because he set me on the path towards Steph and she has in turn given me endless support and encouragement and added new lessons on my path that's finally turning into a great one!  Through every struggle is a great come back. Thank you Steph for participating in mine. (Nameless friend as well). Love and Light.

Kate, Age 38

Eat Well - Take Control Of Your Health

Working with Steph is one of the best things I have done to lose weight. I tried other gimmick diets before with no long-term success. After my fourth son was born and my wife recovering from a stroke I knew I needed to do something about my weight and overall health. My brother has success working with Steph a few years back. I picked his brain for a few months until I finally decided to contact Steph myself. It really helped set me on track. 

The daily logs kept my eating in check. Actually looking at what I was eating helped with portion control and knowing when I was eating and when I was not suppose to eat. Lol.

With her daily nutritional and exercise support I have lost 60 lbs. in five months. If you’re serious about improving your over all health please do your self a favour and contact Steph.

Jake, Age 37

Need Help Getting Back On Track?

Prior to having my daughter 5 years ago my husband and I worked with Steph to improve our eating habits and along with that came a surprising weight loss of 13 lbs. putting me below my goal weight and feeling great. As everyone knows though life gets in the way sometimes and you get off track. After maintaining my weight for a number of years, this last year I struggled with managing my eating choices with a hectic schedule. I knew exactly what I needed to do to lose weight but after so many days I would revert back to bad choices. I was feeling upset and frustrated with myself and decided to turn to Steph as I knew it worked before.

This time my journey was a bit different, I knew how to eat healthy and have the tools to do that but I relied on Steph to hold me accountable and to guide me when I was eating out or at work functions when food options were limited. 

I am happy to say I lost 10.4 lbs. in 30 days and once again feel good about myself and in control again. Steph continues to check in on me, which I appreciate and shows she cares! I have recommended her and her services to numerous friends and family and I would encourage anyone to give her service a try.

Belinda, Age 36

Lose Your Baby Weight! Learn To Eat Well & Reach Your Goals

I had a great experience working with Steph. I reached my weight loss goal of 20 pounds during my 6 week program and continue to lose weight using Steph's advice.  So far I’m down a total of 30 pounds!

I got pregnant with my second without losing all the weight from my daughter so I wanted to get started right away. I lost all my baby weight and I'm finally able to fit into my regular clothes from 2 years ago! Steph made me accountable and mindful of what I was eating. I feel amazing and very impressed with my results!

Holly, Age 31

Losing Weight Can Be Easy

Working with Thrive is the best and healthiest thing I have done for myself to achieve weight loss.  I’ve tried numerous times in the past to lose a few pounds, but nothing has worked for me like her program does.  It’s very simple – if you are looking to lose weight, contact Steph!  You won’t regret it, and you’ll feel great.  She is so knowledgeable and encouraging to work with, it almost seems effortless (really!).  Don’t be worried that you’ll have to eat ‘weird’ stuff, or that you won’t be able to enjoy anything.  It’s all about real food.  When you have a question (for example, what to eat on a restaurant menu), she is never more than an email or text away to answer.  I am down 18 lbs. in 12 weeks, and it was worth every penny!

Thanks Steph!!  

Karen, Age 36

Change Your Mindset & Reach Your Goals

For my milestone 40th birthday year, I was expecting my second baby. During my pregnancy I didn’t have the mindset that I was eating for two but I was definitely giving myself some forgiveness when indulging in mint smoothies or anything chocolate. Knowing that as we age, and having a baby a bit later in life, it can be more challenging to keep ourselves on a road to health and wellness, I felt I should seek guidance in order to get on track once baby arrived.

With my two pregnancies I gained around 35 pounds, kept very active but again, my nutrition could have been better. I felt that I should try to get my nutrition under control so once baby arrived, I had a better foundation as to what to eat working around a newborn’s schedule. I contacted Steph and I was set up with a plan.

During my online time with Steph, I learned how to balance out my day in a much better way. If I was using trail mix as a “snack” to make sure it was a snack and not a meal. As well, if trail mix was on the menu to steer away from nut butters again that day as in the end, calories add up with those healthy fats. I experimented with different foods and recipes. Steph gave me a list of healthy snack options (which is what I needed once the baby arrived). She was also a text message away if I needed guidance. This was especially if we were on the road and stopping at Tim Horton’s etc. Steph was there to offer better suggestions.

At the end of my time with Steph, I lost around 10ish pounds and had about 10 more to go. However, I was 3 months post baby so my body definitely needed its own time to shed some weight on its own. I am now 1 year post baby, down a few pounds to what I was before baby, working out regularly, and for the most part, maintaining the healthful eating mindset. Steph was the kick-start that I needed!

Carey - Age 41, mom of 2

Do You Want To Feel Better In Your Clothes? Learn To Eat Well & Lose Inches!

Stephanie was exactly what I needed! My "baby" was almost 3 years old and I hadn't lost some of the weight I had gained with him. I knew what I should have been eating/not eating but I lacked accountability. When I contacted Stephanie she was prompt and positive. She thoroughly assessed my eating habits and came up with a plan for me. 

Everyday she checked in with me, recognizing my good food choices and making recommendations on meals that I could tweak. Quickly, what felt like "work" (measuring portions, meal planning, food prepping), became habits. These good habits and routines have helped me to lose 18 lbs thanks to Stephanie. Want to have more energy? Want your clothes to fit better? Want to make better food choices? Want to feel proud of yourself? Message Stephanie!

Erika, Age 36

Tips To Stay Healthy & Focused On Your Goals This Holiday Season

The holiday season is upon us! Although there won’t be any big family gatherings or Christmas parties this year, it’s still a time to celebrate and enjoy! This time of year can easily throw you off your game and make you lose focus of your weight loss and health goals – but it doesn’t have to! Here are a few tips to help keep you healthy and on track this holiday season!

1. Eat a healthy diet – Focus on eating balanced meals and snacks each day that include lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, healthy fats and whole grains. Include foods that are high in fibre and antioxidants/nutrients and lower in saturated fats/sugars. Don’t skip meals – especially on the day that you’re planning your holiday meal. Include smaller meals and snacks throughout the day leading up to your festive dinner. This will help prevent overeating and keep you on track.

2. Exercise – bundle up and enjoy the season! Get out for a walk or hike with the family or a friend and enjoy the cooler temperatures. Try snowshoeing, outdoor skating or cross-country skiing! Staying active will help keep your mind of food and your weight in check and the fresh air will help reduce stress and boost your mood. If your gym is open, get in for a workout as often as you can.

3. Snacking – this time of year brings lots of chocolates, baked goods and sweets to office and to the home. Be mindful of how much you’re enjoying and how often, do your best to keep the snacks out of reach and out of sight! Have healthy snacks available at all times – things like fruits, cut up vegetables, nuts/seeds and healthy bars are great to have on hand. Enjoy in moderation!

4. Portion control – it can be easy to overindulge in your holiday favourites, however, all of these extra calories can cause weight gain. Try using smaller plates or measuring out your food to ensure that you’re having proper serving sizes. Do your best not to go back for seconds and don’t be afraid to say “no thank you”.

5. Mindfulness – take a time out when you’re having your meals and snacks. Sit, relax and enjoy your food. Chew it thoroughly and pay attention to your body’s fullness signals. Sometimes distractions can cause you to overeat.

6. Watch liquid calories – during the holidays, there are lots of fun beverages to be enjoyed – eggnog, hot chocolate, festive lattes and alcohol. Do your best not to drink your calories, be mindful of how much and how often you’re indulging. Enjoy in moderation! Drink lots of water – stay hydrated!

7. Sleep well – get into a good sleep routine while you’re on Christmas holidays and allow yourself to get the hours of rest that your body needs each night.

8. Reduce stress - the holidays are filled with lots of fun and cheer, but they can also be stressful, especially since there won’t be any family gatherings this year. Try to find time each day to enjoy the little things, to unwind and relax. Set up phone calls or video calls with friends and family that you won’t be able to see this year – laugh, reminisce and celebrate the season!

Christmas only comes once a year, so enjoy all of the little things that it offers! Just be mindful of what you’re indulging in and how often – and don’t be too hard on yourself. Stay active and keep focused on your goals. Have a date set to get things back on track after the holidays – what are your health and wellness goals for the New Year?!

If you want to make a healthy change in the New Year, check out Thrive's online nutrition programs! Contact Steph, registered holistic nutritionist, for program details!