40 Pound Weight Loss Journey: Overcoming a Sweet Tooth and Hypothyroidism

Overcoming a Lifetime of Weight Problems

For many people, being overweight or obese is a lifelong struggle. Reddit user citruswitch (F/24/5'8") had been struggling with her weight for most of her life. At her heaviest, she weighed 185 lbs in junior year of high school. A big sweet tooth and hatred of exercise, along with hypothyroidism due to Hashimoto's disease, made it difficult for her to lose weight.

Starting a Running Club

Two years ago, however, citruswitch started to get her thyroid under control with the help of synthroid. She began to join a running club that raises awareness for blood cancers and soon lost 10 lbs without any extra effort. After this, she started doing yoga and spin classes semi-regularly, losing another 5 lbs or so.

Joining a Gym and Focusing on Diet

Within a year, citruswitch dropped to 145 lbs but found that casual workouts were no longer cutting it. She then joined a gym and began to watch what she ate. She tried to stay under 1600 calories a day but did not count calories meticulously. Her workouts typically included jogging a combined total of 20 miles per week, along with 2 days of light weight training at the gym.

Staying Consistent to Reach Goal Weight

In November, citruswitch hit her goal weight of 125 lbs. Since then, she's been eating more but keeping her workouts consistent. She doesn't follow a specific diet, but does avoid processed foods (except for pizza once a week). She tries to stay away from carbs for lunch, as they make her sleepy. She also eats a dessert every day, but has found substitutes like dairy-free ice cream or homemade cookies that fit within her calorie goals.

Encouragement to Make Small Changes

Citruswitch's weight loss journey wasn't easy, but it paid off. She learned that it's possible to change bad habits if you stay consistent and focus on gradual progress. Whether you struggle with hypothyroidism or have a sweet tooth, there are always ways to make small changes that can lead to big results. Start with a little exercise, perhaps join a running club or try yoga, and watch what you eat. Before you know it, you too could be telling your weight loss success story.