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Reversing Weight Gain: a Reddit User's Journey

A Reddit user shares their progress in losing 20 pounds after 7 years of weight gain, using an old photo for motivation. Their experience highlights the importance of consistency, lifestyle changes, and small, sustainable goals.

Article by Madeleine Smith

A photo of a 5'5" woman showing a weight bulk from 130 pounds to 150 pounds. A total gain of 20 pounds.
F/35/5’5”[130 > 150 = 20] (7 years) reverse progress picture. Dug up this old picture to get some motivation and to truly see the change in my body with my weight gain.
Originally posted on /r/progresspics

A Reverse Progress Picture for Motivation

The Reddit user, meowmix66686, shared a reverse progress picture, hoping to gain motivation to lose the 20 pounds they've gained over 7 years. The user mentioned that last summer they drank more than usual, started taking antidepressants, and had a tendency for binge eating. It wasn't until the scale hit 150 pounds that they felt the need to commit to making changes. The progress picture showcased a weight gain from 130 to 150 pounds but served as a reminder of the change in their body.

Support and Empathy from Reddit Community

The Reddit community was quick to offer support and empathy, showcasing how weight loss can be challenging but also inspiring. Some users related to meowmix66686's struggle of not feeling confident and struggling with clothes that no longer fit. Others celebrated both the before and after photo, recognizing the appeal of their body shape, no matter their weight.

Sustainable Lifestyle Changes and Small Goals

While the Reddit community offered a variety of opinions on weight loss, the consensus was the importance of sustainable lifestyle changes and small goals. Many users shared their own weight loss journey, highlighting the significance of calorie intake, physical activity, and consistency. Some suggested implementing intermittent fasting or lifting weights, but advised caution and personalization. Others emphasized the benefits of non-scale victories, including improved posture and reduced pain.

The Science of Weight Loss and Metabolism

While some users debated the impact of metabolism and weight loss, based on a study about metabolic rates and fat percentage, the importance of calories in and out remained the focus. With age, there is a reduction in metabolism, but the significance of functional goals and long-term health was highlighted. Lifting weights was suggested as a beneficial way to change body composition and make sustainable changes.

Trying Things Out for Yourself

The Reddit user's journey showcases how weight loss can be a difficult and personal journey, but one that is achievable through small goals, consistency, and lifestyle changes. The Reddit community was quick to offer support and empathy, but also emphasized the importance of finding what works best for individual needs, whether it's intermittent fasting, weightlifting, or another method. While it's great to draw inspiration from others, it's important to remember that each journey is unique.

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Madeleine Smith

Content Lead at MyProgressPics.com

Madeleine is passionate about empowering individuals with the information and tools they need to transform their bodies and lives.