The Fast Way to Health

My Weight Loss Journey: A Quest for Balance and Health

I’m no stranger to diets, weight-loss journeys, or health kicks — but I have to admit, I am unfamiliar with the concept of not worrying about my weight. I often wonder: Do slim people worry about theirs, or are they simply blessed with fast metabolisms?
The cynic in me would love to believe that they’re just lucky and perhaps don’t have to work as hard to stay trim. But the rational part of me knows that can’t be true for the majority of people. Everyone, regardless of their size, faces their own struggles, even if they’re not always visible.

The Latest Weight-Loss Buzz: Ozempic and Mounjaro

Recently, weight loss seems to be everywhere — especially with medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro gaining popularity. I often find myself wondering at what point people make the choice to turn to these medications. It’s hard not to feel a mix of shock and judgement when scrolling through Instagram reels. Some of the eating habits people share while on these injections leave me, well, gobsmacked.
But here’s the thing — isn’t the ultimate goal of losing weight to change our eating habits for the long term? It’s not just about reducing body fat; it’s about creating healthier habits, isn’t it?

Medical Struggles and My Weight-Loss Reality

I could hide behind medical facts — like how my fat is harder to shift due to an underactive thyroid, PCOS, a pituitary gland tumour, and gynaecological issues. Honestly, there are days I feel like I might poke my eyes out with a fork because of the frustration. But I’m not here to make excuses. That said, it really does feel like an impossible task at times.
Over the past several years, I’ve yo-yoed by about seven pounds. In winter, I tend to be rounder; in summer, I’m a little less so — let’s call it a slight deflate. My heaviest adult weight, including both pregnancies, was 105 kg. My lowest weight? 69.5 kg — though that lasted a whole week, as I celebrated by indulging in food. Oh, the irony.
Currently, I weigh 70.9 kg. My BMI teeters just below the “obese” category — narrowly dodging that label with great gusto (pun very much intended).

The Changing Medical Advice

Throughout my life, various medical professionals have encouraged me to keep losing weight. But when I hit 36, the advice suddenly changed: “Well, you’ve had two children, don’t worry now.” Should I tell them that I had my children in my twenties? It seems that age, for some, has become an excuse for a more relaxed approach to weight.
I’ve also found myself on various medications for different health issues. Honestly, I feel like a pill-popping machine, and I hate it. So, what can I do about it?

Taking Action: The Intermittent Fasting Plan

I’m lucky to have a very practical husband. If I moan or bring up an issue, he’s quick to offer a well-thought-out solution — the cheek, right? But on this occasion, I actually listened to him. He suggested I try intermittent fasting, and I started immediately.
Given my personality — which tends to be all or nothing — I dove headfirst into the 16:8 method. This means fasting for 16 hours each day and eating within an 8-hour window. It’s working well for me. I stop eating every day at 4 p.m.

What Is Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent fasting (IF) isn’t a traditional diet — it’s more of an eating pattern. The 16:8 method involves fasting for 16 hours, giving your body time to burn through glucose and tap into fat stores for energy.
Studies suggest that IF can improve insulin sensitivity, support hormone balance, and may even reduce inflammation. Giving your digestive system a regular break can also help regulate appetite and energy levels. It’s not a miracle cure, but it is grounded in solid scientific research.

Adjusting to Intermittent Fasting: The First Few Days

The first week was all about adjustment. Days 1 to 3 were tough as I had to increase my protein intake and remove my evening meal. I also focused on drinking more water and slowed down on exercise. Walking became my primary form of movement.
Day 4 was the hardest. I could’ve easily justified eating, especially since I felt lighter. But as anyone who’s tried to lose weight knows, the first few days are often just water loss. You may feel trimmer, but it’s not true fat loss yet.

Since reducing my sugar intake to just fruit, I've noticed a surprising shift in my cravings. Instead of reaching for sugary snacks, I now find myself craving vegetables. At first, I thought it was unusual, but as time has gone on, I've come to appreciate how satisfying vegetables can be. The crunch of raw carrots or the warmth of roasted broccoli feels more rewarding than a sugary treat ever did. It’s a reminder that cutting out refined sugar isn’t about deprivation but discovering new, healthier cravings.

Battling Boredom and Managing Fatigue

Now in my second week, I find myself battling occasional boredom, especially around my usual mealtime. It’s funny how you realise that you don’t always eat because you're hungry — sometimes, it’s just out of boredom or loneliness.
Interestingly, one of the unexpected benefits of intermittent fasting has been an increase in my energy levels, once I got past the initial adjustment phase. I've found a few helpful hacks for managing fatigue:

• A good cup of coffee in the morning helps me stay alert.
• SlimFast shakes are a quick, protein-rich lunch option when I’m short on time or can't think of what to cook.
• Paying more attention to nutrition — not just calories — has made a big difference in how I feel overall.
• Stay hydrated.

Making Progress, Not Perfection

It’s not perfect, but it’s progress — and right now, I’m choosing to embrace that. My goal isn’t just to lose weight. I aim to become healthier and ideally reduce my dependency on medication in the long term.

The Science Behind Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting isn’t a magic bullet, but there is a growing body of research supporting its benefits. Studies have shown that IF can help reduce body fat and even extend lifespan. Case studies also show promising results for those who struggle with conditions like PCOS or thyroid imbalances.
For example, one study published in Obesity Reviews found that IF improved metabolic health markers in overweight and obese individuals. In another study, participants who practised intermittent fasting for 8 weeks experienced significant fat loss without sacrificing muscle mass.
While more research is needed to fully understand all the benefits, the current evidence suggests that IF could be a powerful tool for improving health.

A Journey Beyond the Numbers

As I continue on this path, I realise that my health journey isn’t just about a number on the scales or a dress size. How I feel — mentally and emotionally — is just as important. Yes, the physical changes matter, but my emotional well-being and self-worth are just as crucial. Stepping into the unknown can be scary, but I know that prioritising my health is essential. Health truly is wealth, and it’s time to make it my priority. Wish me luck as I embrace this journey, knowing that every step forward is progress, no matter how small.