The key to Mariel Padilla’s second shot at weight loss
It is an understatement to say that weight loss, especially in the age range of 30s and up, is difficult. Even celebrities are not spared. Actress-TV host Mariel Padilla’s weight loss story has been open to the public. We have witnessed her struggle with it after becoming a mom of two.
These days, Mariel is celebrating milestones after her second pregnancy and pandemic weight gain. She is thrilled to have lost six inches off her waistline, nine inches off her tummy, and 5.5 inches off her hips. How did she do it? Bringing together technology and psychology in her trusted weight loss clinic has become the key to her success.
“I’ll be 40 next year. When I did this the first time, I was 33. So, the difference is significant. It really gets harder, the metabolism,” Mariel shared how age was a huge factor in her experience. “I feel like this journey was so much harder than the first time I was in Marie France. I had so many moments where I thought I was going to break, where I thought I wouldn’t be able to do it again. Like my body was just failing me,” she added.
Mariel’s set of activities changing over the years also affected her journey. “Before, I was a stay-at-home mom. I had one toddler; we didn’t go anywhere. Now, I have two kids who both go to school, I have to attend social events, and I’m working. The situation has changed. So, everything changed.”
“But even during those times when I gained weight or my weight wasn’t moving, we were very, very consistent, we just kept going, and I kept showing up for my treatments at Marie France. So when I saw myself slowly getting back, I said, ‘Oh my gosh, it’s working!’ And then when people come up to you and say, ‘Payat ka na! Ang laki ng pinayat mo! (You’re slim now! You lost a lot of weight!) You look great!’ Those words give you the motivation to continue.”
Mariel giddily added, “There is a saying, right? ‘Love is sweeter the second time around.’ Especially when you work hard for something, the victory feels greater. That’s how I feel.”
Having successfully regained her pre-baby body in 2018 with the help of Marie France, she was assured that her slimming partner would be equally effective in helping her once more. The clinic has been in the Philippines for 38 years, producing specialized slimming and weight loss programs that many have reviewed as effective. The holistic and comprehensive approach combines technology with the personal care of experts such as in-house medical doctors, nutritionists, slimming counselors, and therapists has become an asset.
An important upgrade that aided Mariel’s success is the availability of an in-house behavioral specialist. Marie France’s Dr. Ann Gelvezon explained, “When it comes to weight management and ensuring a healthy lifestyle, it is best to use a holistic approach. Here, we don’t just deal with the number on the scale or guide them on what to eat and what to avoid. We also recognize eating patterns, and eating behaviors, and even delve into their relationship with food.”
“Having someone look into their mental health throughout their journey is so important. That can really help them see that ‘Yeah, I do have the support’ and ‘I can do it.’” A behavioral specialist ensures personalized behavior modification, emotional support and coping, and long-term behavioral change.
“The aspect of mental health is really something that needs to be taken care of. It’s just nice to have those conversations and know that the support system is very strong. When you’re in an environment where all you hear is encouragement, you feel like, ‘Yes, let’s do it. We can handle this!’” Mariel raved in a mix of Filipino and English.
Glowing inside and out, the active mom is in a better headspace these days. She shared, ‘I am in a good place. I don’t need to flaunt it in your face like, ‘This is me now! I’ve returned to how I used to be!’ With that, the insecurity disappears. Because insecurity says, ‘Just wait! When I lose weight, you all better be ready!’ Right?”
“When you’re already in a much better place, in a more peaceful, happy place, you’re not too bothered by the noise,” Mariel assured. “You feel good about yourself, your clothes fit well, so it’s more positive than anything. The negativity is already pulverized along with the fats!”