Curious/interested in any tips/wisdom regarding weight loss following significant weight gain from psychotropic medications.
Meds are not negotiable (e.g., medication or dosage) & must be continued indefinitely. I'm fortunate at this point that meds are at lower dosages with the least impact on metabolism and fatigue ever, but they still are a key part of the weight issue. (Currently 5'4" and 212 lbs. Before meds, I weighed 118 lbs). No issues with blood pressure or blood sugar, but as I head into my 40s I am more concerned about overall physical health).
Been on meds for 21 years and the cumulative weight gain during that time is more than 150 lbs. Periodically have lost 20-30 lbs through caloric restriction (e.g., 1200-1600 calories per day) and 30-45 minutes of exercise per day. Inevitably the weight is gained back, in part because these are hard to maintain and in part from symptomatic episodes that are recurrent.
Problems seem to center around genuine slowing of metabolism and fatigue that these meds cause, so weight loss is slower and more difficult to maintain. So it's not impossible but much more difficult compared to someone not taking these meds. Also, not shirking personal responsibility - can't 100% blame meds but they are huge factor.
I do take supplements but have to be careful to avoid stimulants causing hypomania/mania - so I take CLA, chromium, ginseng, ashwagandha, and some green tea extract. These seem to help reduce further weight gain but not weight loss. Intermittent fasting (10/14 or 16/8) has helped as well, but again that can be challenging to maintain long-term.
Not looking for fad or super restrictive diets (sorry keto), supplements that alter mood (like Hydroxycut) or exercise regimen that's not sustainable. Also, I'm trying not to name medications or focus too much on specifics because I don't want to influence anyone's health decisions or dodge my accountability). Just the general topic of weight loss when medications are altering the ability to effectively lose weight).
So if there are any suggestions or tips from experience I would be grateful. This is an area where doctors & pharmacists really have not had many realistic or useful strategies to offer and I know I'm not alone in this struggle.
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