Yo-yo dieter, 66, looks ‘unrecognisable’ on dog walks after four stone weight loss

Teresa, 66, from Plymouth, had been dieting her whole life and says it was ‘sometimes successful, sometimes not successful’ – but then she made one change

A 66 year old Plymouth resident, who had spent decades yo-yo dieting, describes her efforts as ‘sometimes successful, sometimes not successful. ‘ From 2013 onwards, Teresa found herself on a downward spiral, piling on the pounds year after year, which took a devastating toll on her mental wellbeing.

“I couldn’t do anything, couldn’t go anywhere and didn’t feel I had the right to go anywhere, which is really sad,” she reveals. Everything changed in January 2025 when she tipped the scales at 223 pounds (16 stone) and stumbled upon the Simple app whilst browsing on her mobile, introducing her to intermittent fasting for the first time.

“People have told me about fasting before but I never thought I would be able to do it. I thought I would go faint, I would pass out, I wouldn’t be able to go without food so I discarded it,” she admits. But Teresa now feels as though someone has completely rewired her relationship with food after six decades of struggle, all thanks to the application.

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Simple is an AI-powered coaching platform designed for adults seeking a healthier way of life, and customers can currently use the code REACH60 to slash 60% off Simple weight loss programmes. Via the application, which boasts millions of downloads according to the company, users kick-start their transformation by completing an in-depth questionnaire about their wellness objectives, dietary preferences and previous slimming attempts.

Then, just like Teresa, users can enjoy the convenience of logging food through typing, voice or photo, use intermittent fasting trackers, a NutriScanner (which clarifies the nutritional content of meals), and access daily workout plans that cover a range of activities from strength training and cardio to pilates, reports Plymouth Live.

Discussing the app’s impact on her life, Teresa shared: “It’s about getting your mind into that healthy place where you can relax around food. I’ve always had a nightmare around eating food, with people telling me, ‘You shouldn’t eat that, you shouldn’t eat that.'”.

“But now I’ve got people who are totally shocked by how much food I do actually eat.”

She also noticed a significant shift in how others perceive her: “And compliments – that’s a big thing, learning to accept compliments. People also don’t recognise you, but they recognise my dogs, and they go ‘Oh, it is you, well done, you look amazing.’ And to be fair, I actually feel amazing and I can’t thank Simple enough.”

Additionally, there’s Avo, the in-app AI coach that provides instant answers to user queries, acting as a “personal wellness assistant” powered by AI. Users can seek advice on things like healthy recipes, snack options, or specific workouts, and since it’s available 24/7, it becomes more attuned to individual preferences the more it’s used.

“After 175 days, I’m now weighing in at 167 pounds and I’m feeling very very happy about that,” Teresa reveals. “Another big thing for me is logging my food. If I’ve eaten that, I log it. Even if it isn’t right, because I don’t think there’s good or bad food. Simple all the way.”

For those seeking alternatives, numerous other fitness applications exist, including Myfitnesspal, which stands as one of the most beloved tracking platforms available. Boasting capabilities like meal planning, calorie monitoring and exercise programmes, it represents a reliable option.

Lifesum presents another possibility, designed to help individuals monitor their nutritional and fitness behaviours. The platform logs meals, physical activity and various metrics whilst aiming to encourage healthier decisions.

Both applications offer free versions alongside premium subscriptions for those wanting extra support and features. However, Simple app users have expressed enthusiasm about their experiences.

“This app has been absolutely life changing for me…it just made everything so simple… I can actually do things I love to do…like a long walk with my kids,” one person shared.

Another commented on Trustpilot: “I love it so far it helps keep track of my progress.”

Yet some users held different views, with one noting: “It’s probably good for someone who has the time to track and log throughout the day, but it’s a bit busy for my needs.

“So far I’m enjoying this app. The exercises are great. The coach is very helpful and it’s keeping track of my goals,” another user remarked.

Simple is currently 60% off with code REACH60.

This is not medical advice. This is a personal experience. Results may vary. Please consult your healthcare professional for any medical conditions.