Sue Radford's Remarkable Weight Loss Journey at 50
In an exclusive revelation, Sue Radford, the 50-year-old mother of 22, has shared the secret behind her impressive three stone weight loss, which has left her looking so youthful that she is often mistaken for her own daughters. The star of Channel 5's 22 Kids & Counting has transformed from a size 12 to a svelte size 8, sparking widespread speculation about her methods, including rumours of weight loss jabs. However, Sue has firmly set the record straight, attributing her success to traditional diet and exercise rather than pharmaceutical aids.
The Simple Change That Made All the Difference
Sue explains that her 50th birthday last year served as a pivotal moment, motivating her to address her creeping weight gain. "I turned 50 last year and it was a big turning point," she says. "My weight had been creeping up, I was eating too many junk foods and snacks like graze boards in the evening and I wanted to do something about it." Her strategy involved cutting out sugar, pasta, bread, snacks, and junk food entirely, while incorporating daily gym sessions on weekdays. Additionally, she adopted a fasting routine, abstaining from food between 7pm and 1pm, which she found manageable as she was never a breakfast person anyway.
Since April of last year, this disciplined approach has resulted in a three stone weight loss. "I feel amazing," Sue enthuses. "I also feel so much better." The physical transformation has been so dramatic that she is frequently compared to her daughters, Sophie, 32, and Aimee, 19. "To be compared to Sophie and Aimee is such a massive compliment," she admits, clearly chuffed by the comparisons.
Dispelling the Weight Loss Jab Rumours
After posting a photo of herself in Lycra on Instagram, many of her 534,000 followers speculated that she might have used weight loss injections, a trend that has gained popularity. Sue, however, is quick to dismiss these assumptions. "I think because so many people are taking them now, they automatically assume you are - but no I haven't," she clarifies. Instead, she emphasises her commitment to natural methods, including taking vitamins and drinking green tea as part of her wellness routine.
Her husband of 33 years, Noel, 55, is full of admiration for her dedication. "Sue looks fantastic," he says. "She doesn't eat any biscuits, cakes or anything. I don't know how she resists." While Noel has found it challenging to adopt the same healthy eating habits, he has joined Sue at the gym, overcoming his initial shyness. "It has always been something I have wanted to do but I've been too shy to go," he confesses. "You see all these nice, fit bodies in there, but I have joined. We are going to go together until I get used to it."
Family Dynamics and Healthy Eating Challenges
With such a large family, implementing a healthy diet is not without its hurdles. Sue notes that some of the younger children have been resistant to changes, such as switching from white to wholemeal wraps. "Take, for example, the other night," she says. "Normally we would have white wraps, but we had wholemeal and the [younger] kids pulled faces. But we are getting there." Despite these challenges, the family remains supportive, and Sue is determined to maintain her weight loss. "OMG I couldn't believe it when I saw pictures [of me] from a few years ago," she recalls. "It's crazy when you look at them together, but I am really pleased and now the goal is to keep the weight off."
Family Updates and TV Series Return
In addition to her personal transformation, Sue shares updates on her family, particularly regarding her eldest daughter Sophie's marriage. The new series of 22 Kids & Counting, returning on Sunday, February 1st at 8pm on Channel 5, will address the end of Sophie's 10-year marriage to Joe Bradley, 33. This marks the first public confirmation of the split, although speculation had been fuelled by Sophie's Instagram post last May where she described herself as 'single'.
Sue expresses pride in Sophie's decision to share this personal matter on camera. "We are really proud of Sophie for sharing this on camera," she says. "Sadly, a lot of marriages do break down and you can't fix them. They [Sophie and Joe] aren't together anymore, but they are making it work with their three children." The couple realised something was amiss during a family holiday to Orlando, Florida, last April to celebrate Sue's 50th birthday. "We realised it had been brewing for a while," Sue explains. "Sophie couldn't live like that anymore. She is definitely a lot happier now."
Noel adds, "We've known Joe for a long time and we want him to be happy as well." Despite the separation, Joe remains involved with the children, often helping after school. "Joe was around at Christmas with Sophie and the kids at ours," Sue notes. "Joe will go round after school to help with the kids after he finishes work. He is very hands on, which is nice." When asked if they hope Sophie will find another partner, Noel responds, "Yes, definitely. But when she is ready. She is in no rush and she is getting herself into a routine being a single mum."
Life as Britain's Biggest Family
Sue and Noel, who run their own pie company in Morecambe, Lancashire, continue to embrace their fame with humility. They joke about their close relationship, with Noel quipping, "Sue is lucky to have me!" and Sue enjoying their friendly banter. One perk of their large family, according to Noel, is the freedom they now have as a couple. "We are never short of anyone to watch the little ones," he says, allowing them more opportunities to go out together.
Their TV series remains a beloved project, with Sue stating, "We do want to carry on with the TV series. People do seem to enjoy it. The question we get asked most now is 'when will it be back?' rather than 'are you having any more children?'" However, they are clear that their children's well-being comes first. "We've always said if any of the kids say 'no, we don't want to do it', then that is the time to stop," Sue affirms. "They really love the memories that it brings and long may it continue."
From being recognised on top of the Empire State Building to managing a hectic daily schedule that includes school runs, house cleaning, and gym sessions, the Radfords navigate their unique life with grace and humour. As Sue continues her wellness journey and the family prepares for the new TV series, their story remains one of resilience, love, and the power of simple, healthy changes.
