Crystal Rudd’s story is one of perseverance, personal growth, and an incredible transformation.
A self-confessed “food addict,” Crystal struggled with emotional eating from a young age, especially after her parents’ divorce.
But what started as a coping mechanism soon became an all-consuming addiction.
By the age of eight, her relationship with food had spiraled out of control, and she was hiding wrappers from crisps and chocolate behind the sofa.
Her struggle was real, and it continued to impact her throughout her childhood.
The Bullying, Secret Eating, and the Weight Struggles
As Crystal grew, her weight became a source of shame.
In school, she was bullied for her larger frame, which only worsened her emotional eating habits. S
he would often sneak away to eat in private, hiding in bathrooms or behind staircases to indulge in junk food.
While Crystal made attempts to lose weight throughout her teenage years, it never lasted, and the weight always returned.
Things only got worse as she got older. By the time she had children, the weight gain continued.
With each pregnancy, Crystal’s weight grew.
But the tipping point came when she and her then-boyfriend, Stephen, briefly split up after the birth of their third child.
Crystal’s heartbreak led her straight into a cycle of overeating.
She comforted herself with takeaways every night for nearly two months, and as a result, she reached her heaviest weight of 23 stone.
The Turning Point and Gastric Sleeve Surgery
At her heaviest, Crystal wore a dress size 24-26. That’s when she decided to take control and look into bariatric surgery as an option to help her with her weight loss journey.
In January 2023, she traveled to Istanbul, Turkey, for a gastric sleeve procedure that cost £2,700. The surgery was life-changing.
Along with adopting a strict diet and exercise routine after the operation, Crystal shed an impressive 11 stone, shrinking down to a healthy 13 stone and fitting into a size 12 dress.
Removing Excess Skin and Embracing the New Body
However, Crystal didn’t stop there.
After a year of adapting to her new lifestyle and body, she returned to Turkey for an additional procedure in January 2025.
This time, she had 11 pounds of excess skin removed and underwent liposuction.
The £5,800 procedure lasted eight hours and, although it left her with visible stitches, the result was worth it.
She now feels proud of her new figure and has a flat stomach for the first time in her life.
From Struggles to Strength – A Mother’s New Perspective
Crystal’s journey wasn’t easy. Along the way, she faced challenges like a knee injury, a severe infection from a spider bite, and the loss of her beloved grandmother.
Yet, through it all, she remained committed to her goal.
Now, with her new body and new mindset, Crystal is ready to show her children that anything is possible.
She has even entered a pageant for weight loss patients and will be competing in the Miss Bariatric Lincolnshire final in September 2025.
A Glimpse into Crystal’s Past and Diet Habits
Before her transformation, Crystal’s diet was packed with unhealthy options.
She would start her day with bacon sandwiches and family-sized bags of crisps.
Her lunch often included pot noodles and multiple Greggs meal deals, and dinner would consist of takeaways like chicken wraps and cheesy chips.
Throughout the day, she’d snack on chocolates and sugary drinks like Coca-Cola and Monster energy drinks.
A New Diet for a Healthier Future
Now, Crystal’s diet has changed dramatically. She enjoys a balanced breakfast of cereal, protein shakes, or toast with eggs.
Lunch could include a salad with chicken or prawns, and dinner might consist of roast dinners, lasagna, or high-protein meals.
Crystal also keeps her snacks in moderation, choosing healthy options like cheese strings and crisps, alongside the occasional treat like chocolate.
Her beverage choices have shifted to tea with less sugar and sparkling flavored water.
The Emotional and Physical Struggles of a Major Transformation
Crystal reflects on how her relationship with food has evolved.
Growing up, food was a form of comfort, but it became an addiction that took control of her life.
It took years of emotional struggles, bullying, and health challenges to realize that she needed help.
But through the gastric sleeve surgery and her dedication to diet and exercise, Crystal has completely transformed her life.
Despite the difficulties along the way, Crystal’s hard work and commitment to herself have made her proud of her journey.
Moving Forward with Confidence and Pride
Today, Crystal is a different person – healthier, happier, and more confident.
Her transformation is a testament to the power of resilience and self-love.
“Now I can show my kids they can achieve wonderful things,” she says. Reflecting on her younger self, she encourages herself, “Not everything is storms and clouds and you will get your happy ending.”
Crystal is proud of what she has accomplished, and she’s ready to continue thriving as she enters the next chapter of her life.