A mother from Hounslow, West London, has dramatically transformed her life and health by losing more than 20 stone after struggling with extreme overeating and weight gain. Andreina De Sousa Abreu, once weighing 31 stone and consuming up to 50 Krispy Kreme doughnuts for breakfast, has overcome her addiction to sugary foods and now competes as an international bodybuilding champion.

At her heaviest, De Sousa Abreu’s eating habits involved spending nearly £1,000 monthly on doughnuts alone. She supplemented her diet with large quantities of bread, takeaway meals, chocolates, and crisps, a pattern that took a toll on both her physical and mental health. De Sousa Abreu said she ate compulsively to the point where she barely recognized herself. The excessive weight had practical consequences as well; she recalled breaking seven beds due to her bulk.

A traumatic event combined with the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to her downward spiral. The 40-year-old explained that she withdrew into what she described as a “dark little bubble,” feeling ashamed and reluctant to leave her home. Her turning point came after doctors warned her of the serious health risks associated with her weight.

With gyms closed during lockdown, De Sousa Abreu began exercising at home, initially following a daily 45-minute Les Mills bodypump workout. To maintain motivation, she started recording and sharing her progress on social media. In October 2021, she took her fitness journey further by entering the world of bodybuilding.

Since then, De Sousa Abreu has steadily rebuilt her lifestyle, shifting her spending on doughnuts toward therapy and fitness. Her dedication has yielded remarkable results: she currently weighs 9 stone and has dropped from a size 28 to between sizes six and eight. She has also claimed eight international bodybuilding titles and now works as an online coach and personal trainer.

Reflecting on her experience, De Sousa Abreu emphasized the challenges of change but expressed optimism for others facing similar struggles. “It’s still not easy, but if I can do it, anybody can do it,” she said.