Miss Universe: Miss Honduras Lost 40 Pounds Before Pageant

Miss Honduras Gabriela Ordonez is beautiful inside and out, and her shocking confession that she used to be 40 pounds heavier before the Miss Universe Pageant is so inspiring!

While Miss Honduras Gabriela Ordoñez gets ready to face off in the 63rd annual Miss Universe Pageant, the 22-year-old reflects on one of her biggest accomplishments — losing 40 pounds in just one year.

Miss Universe: Miss Honduras Weight Loss Before Pageant – Lost 40 Pounds

Gabriela, who is working towards a law degree, talked to People about her health issues at one point being a struggle, making her body an “obstacle.”

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“My body was an obstacle for me in daily activities. I felt very tired. I had stomachaches at night,” Gabriela told the mag. “The moment you decide to change your lifestyle, you make that decision for life. It’s not a matter of doing a quick diet to lose weight fast. I changed not only my body, but my mind as well.”

Gabriela changed her lifestyle for the better. To lose weight, she began eating less carbs and more protein, as well as drinking a ton of water. She stuck to a daily two-hour cardio and weight routine, no matter how tired she was. That’s extreme dedication!

Of course, Gabriela is happy with her new body, and she also has a very healthy outlook on body image in general. “Being thin serves no purpose if you don’t have charisma,” she says. “Having the perfect smile serves no purpose if you don’t project a real smile.”

The Miss Universe contestants face off on Jan. 25. If Gabriela is crowned the next Miss Universe, she’ll allow for a little bit of fun in her strict diet!

“I’m sure I will eat a whole delicious cheesecake,” says Gabriela. “You have to give yourself a break to be happy.”

What do YOU think, HollywoodLifers? Are you shocked by Miss Honduras’ 40 lb. weight loss? Do you think her story is inspiring? Let us know!

— Julianne Ishler