Disclosure: Some posts on this blog may contain affiliate links and as an Amazon Associate, I may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. This is so I can support my traveling habit, my special-needs dog, and this blog.
I rarely mention that I have Type 2 diabetes, but I’ve been living with it for a year or so shy of a decade. Three months ago, I stepped into an endocrinologist’s office for the first time, fearful of the news. My A1C had creeped up over the past couple of years. Instead, I received a tool to improve my health in ways I never imagined possible. The doctor prescribed the medication called Mounjaro to help manage my diabetes.
Mounjaro’s main purpose is to lower my glucose (blood sugar) which should lower my A1C (my A1C was 8.2). Weight loss is a side effect, and I was skeptical at the results.
Prior to an endocrinologist prescribing Mounjaro, I had read about the medication and knew some of its side effects. My health care provider told me what the average weight loss was during the medication’s clinical trials, and I didn’t believe it. However, I wanted to give it a try and see if it’ll lower my glucose.
I Cannot Believe How Much Weight I’ve Lost
After 12 weeks (three months) using Mounjaro, I’ve lost more than 30 pounds! Thirty pounds! I’ve gone from a size 16 to size 12. A 12! The last time I wore a size 12, Clinton was president!
And my A1C? Well, I won’t know until November. On average, my daily glucose numbers are decreasing, which I’m pleased about.
When prescribed the medication, I wore a glucose monitor for about 10 days. This resulted in the endocrinologist sending me home with two insulin pens and the instructions of injecting myself with insulin when my morning glucose numbers are over 200. Thankfully, I have not had a single morning over 200 so those insulin pens are still sitting full in my refrigerator.
I’ve Been on a Health Journey this Summer
So, while I haven’t really been traveling over the summer, I’ve been on a different type of journey, a journey to improve my health.
My appetite is reduced and I’m eating smaller meals. I’m embracing portion control. For years, I know that’s what I need to do. Heck, I invested time and money with an excellent nutritionist and I’m back to implementing what she taught me. Rather than eating a dozen wings, I’ll eat four.
However, there are days I’m forcing myself to eat. Because of this, I’m being more mindful in what I’m eating. I’m making sure I’m eating the most nutritious foods I can. Okay, wings aren’t necessarily nutritious, but everything is in moderation. When I’m up for breakfast, protein shakes are my go-to meal of choice.
What I eat is a big question I receive and I don’t have a solid answer. But, I do enjoy recipes out of “The Blue Zones Kitchen: 100 Recipes to Live to 100” by Dan Buettner. There are some yummy vegan dishes in there.
I’m also working on exercising consistently which includes practicing yoga, long walks with my dog, and cutting my grass with the push mower. Paddleboarding and biking are on my to-do list.
Your Invitation to Follow My Journey
I’m documenting this journey on my YouTube channel. I’d be honored if you visit my channel. If you’re inclined, you can subscribe and you’ll be notified of new videos. I post weekly updates to share my progress and challenges and I enjoy hearing and learning from others on the same journey.
I’ve tried different ways to lose weight and in theory, being a healthy weight should reduce my A1C. Unfortunately, after each time, I’ve gained the weight back after working so hard.
Losing more than 30 pounds in 12 weeks is unbelievable and I’m pinching myself every time I hop on the scale. Almost immediate results are encouraging to stick with a plan. Also, I’m learning new habits and implementing ones I know I should be following. It takes 90 days to form a new habit. This go around, I’m optimistic I’ll stick with it.
For years, I’ve heard people say they wished there’s a magic pill to take for weight loss. Well, there isn’t a pill but a magic injection.
People say you’ll find the love of your life when you least expect it. When I walked into the endocrinologist’s office that day, I had no idea where it would lead me. Anticipating the worst, I received an incredible gift.
Simply, this medication is changing my life and I’m grateful.
About the Main Photo
The featured image at the top shows two photos taken about a year apart. The one on the left was taken in August 2021 and the one on the right in September 2022. Can you see a difference?
