For the last seven years, I have been piecing together my life, self-love, confidence, and vision for the future, day by day. Going through a divorce while discovering I had hypothyroidism, major depression, and anxiety was certainly not an asset for my ass, if you know what I mean! LOL
In my adulthood, I’ve always ranged from about 130 to 150 pounds; for reference, I’m 5’6”. I would occasionally hit 150, then cut out a few alcoholic or caffeinated drinks, eat a little healthier, and suddenly drop 10 pounds. Oh, the twenties and early thirties—those were the days!
At the time of my separation, I was honestly in the best shape of my life, weighing 140 pounds and feeling more toned and stronger physically than ever. I attended CrossFit with my then-best friend at least three days a week, sometimes four, and even tackled a 5K and a Tough Mudder together.
Shortly after, the pounds started piling on, along with a dwindling motivation to tackle that issue. It seemed like the least of my worries at the time. I was trying to navigate these new diagnoses and get them under control. I was prescribed medication for my hypothyroidism, which was straightforward. However, depression and anxiety meds are a whole different ball game—a trial-and-error adventure. Fun stuff said no one ever ha. One medication made me feel amazing! I was less depressed and anxious and had so much energy! But then, over the course of a month, I gained 15 pounds. Well if that didn’t just rampthat depression up a notch. When I asked my doctor if the weight would plateau, she informed me that, unfortunately, it often continues to climb for those who experience rapid weight gain from the medication. Back to the drawing board!
After finally finding a medication that worked and the fog of the situation started to lift, I realized I had reached 190 pounds—10 pounds more than my pregnancy weight with either of my sons. Over time, by cutting back on meals, walking, and making healthier choices, I managed to shed 20 pounds, but it took about four years. Mind you, this was during the COVID pandemic!
For the last three years, I’ve been stagnant at around 170 pounds. I might lose five pounds if I “starve” myself, but one bite and it’s all back, plus a few extra. No matter what I try, I can’t get that scale to budge. At this stage, I think perimenopause and PCOS are also working against me and my goals. I’ve debated for a long time whether a GLP-1 medication would be right for me to help shift the scale. Honestly, I feel I need it to move beyond the same five pounds I’ve gained and lost countless times. I’m at a point where I no longer believe I can do it on my own.
Last week, I finally decided I was tired of being mad at myself and my body. I have worked hard to love myself and take better care of myself, both inside and out. I feel that this is one of those hills where I need a little help to climb. I know how to eat healthy and exercise, but I can’t figure out how to escape this seemingly endless slump. I know that if I can just push past that stubborn five pounds and prove it’s possible again, it will reignite my fire. I don’t want to use this medicine as a crutch; I want it to be a tool to help me reach my goals and love my body even more.
I’ve peeled back the layers, cried more tears than I thought possible, and started to create the best recipe of my life with those layers. This is yet another obstacle that I’ll look back on and be grateful I chose my health and was determined to become the person I want to be, both inside and out.
I’m excited to have you all here for this journey, and I hope you’ll follow along as we crush some goals together!
Have you tried a GLP-1 medication? What has your experience been? I welcome any tips you may have. If you’re on a weight loss journey of any type or have been, I’d love to hear about your challenges and successes!