This archive report was first published on 31 August 2019.
On a fateful last September, Allan Olingo's life took a dramatic turn after he experienced a toothache. The pain was so severe that he had to rush to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with irregular heartbeats caused by an over-the-counter painkiller he had taken.
However, the real wake-up call came when the doctor revealed that Olingo's body mass index (BMI) was that of a 48-year-old, despite being 15 years younger. He weighed 94 kilograms, was unfit, and at risk of developing high blood pressure.
After leaving the hospital, Olingo vowed to change his lifestyle. He started by cutting out junk foods and sodas, and sought help from a nutritionist who advised him on food portions and encouraged him to increase his water intake to three litres a day.
Olingo also intensified his treadmill workouts, opting for elevated walks due to knee pains caused by excess weight. He started walking even during his lunch hour, exploring new places and window-shopping.
After four months, Olingo lost six kilograms, and over the next seven months, he shed a total of 14 kilograms. He credits his weight loss to a combination of healthy eating habits and regular exercise, including gym sessions, cycling, and running in Karura Forest.
Technology has also played a significant role in Olingo's weight loss journey, with his Apple watch monitoring his heart rate and movement data, and his MyFitnessPal app tracking his food intake and calorie burn.
As a result of his weight loss, Olingo has experienced numerous benefits, including improved sleep, reduced back and knee pains, and a newfound confidence. He has also had to change his wardrobe, including his shoes, and has even been reintroduced to people he had previously met.
For Olingo, the journey has been a rewarding one, and he is now focused on maintaining his weight loss and achieving his goal of getting six-pack abs.
