How a Student Lost 25 Pounds in 9 Months Through Diet and Exercise

Introduction

Losing 25 pounds is a remarkable feat, especially for a college student dealing with PCOS. A Reddit user, _cb27, shared her journey, beginning with taking control of her hormones with birth control, healthy eating, and exercise. Here's how she did it.

Diet Changes

Rather than banishing certain foods, _cb27 focused on eating wholesome, minimally processed foods that included lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. She also stopped eating most dairy products and significantly reduced carbohydrates. Her plan was loosely based on the paleo diet, which emphasizes whole foods, and it paid off.

Exercise Regimen

In addition to making dietary changes, _cb27 became more physically active. She began working out regularly at the gym and started running, which she used to dread in high school. Her efforts paid off as her weight loss began to progress steadily. She also joined a crossfit program, which led to gains in muscle and strength.

Managing Crossfit on a College Budget

Crossfit can be an expensive fitness option, but _cb27 found ways to save money. The box she attended cost about $175 a month, but she saved $50 from each paycheck. She also cut out some non-essential expenses, such as expensive sushi dinners with friends and shopping for clothes she didn't need. For those unable to afford Crossfit, most gyms offer at least one free class, and Groupon offers excellent deals.

Conclusion

With a combination of consistent exercise, healthy eating habits, and managing hormones with birth control, _cb27's weight loss journey was a success. She recommends finding an exercise regimen that works for you, sticking to whole foods, and working on hormone balance with a doctor. Overall, her journey can offer inspiration for anyone looking to get fit and lose weight.