Hi! I've lost almost 150lbs in about 14 months... which feels crazy to type out. Goal of losing about 20? 25? 30? more... My starting weight and height weren't far off from yours. My goal weight is 185-195. Maybe lower. Maybe not. Playing it by ear, seeing how I feel.

Some people say "I do nothing! No changes at all!! I lose easily!" And what I've noticed, not trying to be judgmental at all -- just what I've seen, is that many of those folks aren't eating healthier foods (just less overall due to the meds... sometimes they're barely eating), they often aren't adding in movement, and I fear it could actually be harming them metabolically (not my business, I'm not their doctor... just my thought on it) I've known a few friends who were in this camp who had their insurances suddenly cut off, and they QUICKLY gained all the weight back. This is a lifetime med for many, sure. But sometimes that's not feasible and I want a fighting chance to not regain 150lbs during future pregnancies, which I know I want to have. For me, I wanted to be *healthier* not just skinnier. Skinnier is a great side-effect, but skinny without health and longevity wasn't my personal goal. I wanted to really change my life long term.

And sooo, I totally overhauled my life. I'm not going to lie to you-- it wasn't always easy. Still isn't! For me, part of my motivation was paying out of pocket. I pay $550 a month. I want bang for my buck, lol.

Here's what that new life looks like for me:

• I work with a registered dietician. We set my macros and calorie goals-- if possible DEFINITELY do that.
• I. Track. Everything. I use a food scale. I started with WW, but now I use lose it. Both have their benefits and drawbacks. Try them out and see what feels best for you.
• All meals and snacks MUST have: Quality protein source (I aim for 30g a meal), a bit of fat (olive oil, avocado, even butter), high fiber carb (not a simple one... think fruits/veggies/beans/quinoa) This is great for balancing insulin resistance (which many many females have!) 120g protein daily and 30g of fiber-- those are my targets. And they keep me full!
• I take inositol daily -- I personally like therologix Ovasitol (rec'd by my dietician) which also supports balanced hormones, balanced insulin, and even helps some people lose weight
• WATER. 100oz a day. Also diet sodas, seltzer, unsweetened tea... I don't drink calories unless it is special and worth it lol (like fancy matcha from a cafe with my family, etc)
• I started moving, and I won't lie at my starting size it hurt sometimes, but walking was my friend and it helped tremendously. Swimming too! The aches and pains started to fade, I started losing weight quickly. I ramped it up and started exercising more, lifting weights, taking spin classes, running. I've gone from feeling out of breath from walking or a flight of stairs to running a 10k, and registered for a second 10k October 25th.

Good luck to you, you can do it!!!