I'm male, 37, 473 lbs, and -- as of today -- actively trying to "lose it". I tend to be a private person, so I am a bit hesitant to even write all this; however, I honestly think I could use some accountability and encouragement. So... here goes nothing.
Like many of the folks I've seen while lurking here for months, I've been heavy since I was young. I've had years of life with high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and chronic pain. Recently, however, I've had two new problems pop up that have finally opened my eyes.
First, I was diagnosed two weeks ago with a fractured foot. I didn't do anything cool to earn that injury. I simply increased my daily step count while on vacation for a few days. At my weight, apparently that was enough...
Second, last week I was diagnosed with diabetes. I had actually gone to my primary care physician feeling pretty good about things (other than the foot). I'd even lost some weight from the high-water mark at my previous visit, without even trying. However, this new diagnosis caught me off guard, even though it's clearly not out of the blue. She told me this is basically my version of rock-bottom. If I treat this like some people treat a heart attack or stroke, and make changes, things can get better. But, if I don't make the changes needed to develop a healthy lifestyle NOW, I probably won't make it to 40.
I'll admit, this overwhelmed me. My first reaction, internally, was self-loathing and hopelessness. "There's no way I can do anything about my health... after all, if I could, wouldn't I have done so already?" ... Obviously not.
I've taken a few days to process. I've read and re-read all the materials from my appointment, as well as all the FAQ's and resources here. I feel I finally have a game plan.
I used the TDEE calculator, decided on a daily calorie goal, and will be using myfitnesspal to track CICO. My physician wanted me to do IF, so I'll be trying to adapt my schedule to eat in that framework as well. My wife and I have discussed some needed changes to what we buy for groceries, but for the most part I just need to focus on reducing portion sizes and increasing water intake for now. I've got to wait a bit before adding walking back in.
When all is said and done, I need to lose around 300 lbs. I am under no illusion that will be easy, fast, or without other issues along the way (like lots of loose skin! yay!). However, for the first time in a long time, I have a plan, and I have hope. And that's good, because I simply have to do this. I have to do this for my wife and kids. I have to do it to save my own life.
If you've read this far... Thanks. I appreciate you!
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source https://www.reddit.com/r/loseit/comments/ja4dhp/doctor_told_me_its_now_or_never/
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