Athletes frown upon hearing the word. The sound of it is degrading and negative. The agony of defeat usually brings tears, pouting and tantrums for some, but not for me!

From January to April, I took part in a Biggest Loser challenge with co-workers at The Telegraph. Perhaps you've seen the show on television. You know, the one where the obese people work their rear ends off while crying and complaining through the whole show. When it was all over I had some cash in my pocket, a lot of clothes that don't fit, and the title of "Biggest Loser."

Never dieting before, I had no idea what I was in for. I imagined losing a few pounds, but never 57! No, I didn't have a leg removed, but I'm often asked now where the other half of me went. I kinda feel like the characters in that "Honey I shrunk the kids" movie. Someone must have zapped me, and I shrunk 21 percent.

For me this had to be a lifestyle change. That phrase "You are what you eat" is so true. Excercise also plays a large role in controling your body size. My wife and son are also shedding pounds, changing to healthier lifestyles and eating habits. We take turns on the treadmill and encourage each other to exercise.

The toughest part for me was removing soda, and cutting down my portions. I carry a water bottle with me almost everywhere I go, and discipline myself to avoid unhealthy snacks. They are so tempting for me. Whenever a hunger pain comes on, I drink water. If I still feel hungry, I have a piece of fruit, or unsalted peanuts.

My meals are more like snacks all day. I have a half dozen pieces of fruit per day, but space them out, along with some nuts in a homemade trail mix. The key for me was spreading it out all day, but eating healthy foods, in small portions. The energy I get from the healthier food and exercise is unbelievable.

My grocery cart looks much different at the checkout these days, with mostly fruit, veggies and turkey. Gotta love those turkeys. I avoid the four-legged animals, and stick to the ones with wings. That helps my cholesterol and gives me protein. I still eat pizza, spaghetti and meatballs, and burgers on the grill, but they are now made with ground turkey.

So, did you somehow shrink all your clothes in the dryer? Are you having trouble seeing your toes? Are you looking for a reason to get healthy again?

Try making changes to your lifestyle and eating habits, one at a time, starting with the tough choices. Add some regular exercise. Encourage your whole family to join you. Maybe you can be a biggest loser too!

-Bob Hammerstrom