Whereabouts in the world are you?
South Wales.
What do you do for a living?
I work in vehicle sales.
What are your hobbies?
Horse riding plus any kind of fitness; pilates, yoga, zumba.
Before Killa Vanilla, describe a typical evening?
My god. It would always consist of a few cups of tea that I always had biscuits with (each). Sweets, junk food, you name it. I didn’t realise I was doing it, it was out of boredom, I wasn’t even hungry. I was terrible for sweets, chocolate, I couldn't have gone a day without a chocolate bar after 7pm. Biscuits, I could demolish half a pack no problem at all.
How long was this a pattern for?
For the last 3-4 years. I switched jobs at the beginning of that period and it was a trigger for me. I was working less hours so I had more time in the house.
Which sugar weapon of choice?
Chocolate and biscuits, those were my two biggest weaknesses.
How did you feel afterwards?
I’d eat it thinking it’d make me feel better. But it didn’t. Guilt and getting to the point of being sick.
Would you ever count the calories?
I have done, but only sporadically. It didn’t help my weight.
Had you tried anything prior?
I tried going cold turkey. Found it too hard as I had no support and it was based on willpower alone. Would only last a couple of days and would leave me with immense cravings. The restriction made me want it more.
How did you discover Killa Vanilla?
Facebook advert. I did my homework and was happy it existed and there were real people commenting.
How was the customer experience?
Really good. Couldn't fault it. Quick postage.
How long was the process with Killa Vanilla?
In the first 1-2 days I used it all the time, for any slight craving. Within 3-4 days I noticed my cravings drastically dropping. By the 2nd to 3rd week, I used it much less. By the 4th week I had barely used it. Even though I hadn’t had any chocolate, I wanted to stick with it, so I always had it in my pocket.
How have you found the process?
Couldn't have been easier. Simple to use. I use it at work and no one bats an eyelid. It wasn’t just about sugar for me; my mental health remarkably improved, my fitness improved, and my eating was better. I’ve lost 8lbs. It all comes together.
I started and still take everything day by day. I don’t buy sweets in the local shop anymore.
At what stage in the process did you notice key changes?
After the 3-4th day there was a big change. It was only until the 4th week I’d realised the progress I had made.
How often do you use Killa Vanilla?
At the beginning, a lot. In the first 3 days, once an hour. I’d use it for the slightest craving, even if it was a thought about something sweet - even if I didn’t have access, I wanted to knock it out of my system rather than let it build up. Now I use it once a day or once every other day.
How do you feel now knowing you don’t succumb to sugar binges?
I feel so much better by not feeling sick with chocolate. I never thought I’d be able to stop the cravings. It was my nemesis and I’ve now gone off sugar. I had a chocolate bar recently and didn’t enjoy it. I’m glad I did have it, as I realised my cravings have disappeared. I can now stand next to the vending machine and not buy chocolate. It feels insanely good being able to say no, let alone the money I’m saving.
Have you seen or felt any other unexpected benefits?
Loads. My weight is one. I used to think sugar gave me energy, but it actually zapped me. I’m eating better, exercising better. Killa Vanilla was like the starting piece of the puzzle. Everything has come from that. Other pieces of that puzzle keep the first piece in place too. I’ve always struggled with weight and I’ve lost 8lbs at a sensible rate. Delighted. So many bad things avoided. It’s the best I’ve felt in 3 years.
What would you like to see more of in the UK and the world?
It annoys me when I see misleading marketing. There needs to be better regulation of that. Less social media use. I’m so used to comparing my life (especially when I’ve been at my lowest), which doesn’t help. Because in reality it’s a journey, not something that happens overnight. There’s a misrepresentation of what's real on social media. I’d like to see it used more to improve mental health and supporting people, whereas it creates the issues in the first place. It feels like we've become so insecure as a human race.
Are there any other excesses you’d like to consume less of?
Sugar was my biggest thing. However, I’d like to drink less coffee! And use less diesel in my car! I’m conscious we have microplastics in our food. I don't know what I can do about it but I know it could be better!
