Tachala lost 42+ pounds

Transformation of the Day: Tachala lost 42+ pounds. She struggled with weight loss due to PCOS. Along with suffering from irregular periods, she fatigued, anemic, and depressed. She has seen her PCOS symptoms improve by working out, eating low-carb meals, and practicing intermittent fasting.

I’ve struggled with weight loss for several years after being diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. I was also told I could become pre-diabetic if I continued to gain weight. I was suffering from oligomenorrhea (irregular periods), seeing my menstrual only four times for the year. Each cycle lasted one whole month with heavy flows. I was fatigued, anemic, and depressed. 

After going through a depression, I lost 15 pounds. Then I took matters into my own hands by exercising and eating clean consistently. As a result, I lost the next 30-35 pounds. Since then, I’ve lost almost 50 pounds in total. 

By changing my lifestyle, I started seeing my menstrual every month. (lasting for just seven days!) I’m sharing my story because I know a lot of women struggle with PCOS and weight gain. My story reflects that some PCOS symptoms can be curtailed by losing weight and taking care of your body. 

Tell us more about how you changed your eating habits.
I started by following the Keto diet. I didn’t really cut out anything. I just ate low-carb meals and didn’t eat snacks unless it was a cheat day. I also did intermittent fasting, eating twice per day in an 8 hour period, and then fasted for the next 16 hours. In addition, I drank a gallon of water each day. 

What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
My workout routine at the beginning was strictly cardio. But, as the weight came off, I started wanting to build muscles, so I added strength training. I work out 5-6 times per week. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was almost 200. However, I’m not sure of the exact figure. My highest recorded weight was 185 pounds, and I was told that I was obese at that time. My current weight is 143lbs. 

What is your height?
I’m 5’4″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started my journey in the middle of May 2021 and lost most of the weight by July. So, it’s been four months.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, weight loss surgery is not part of my journey. I did it naturally. 

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is that you have to find happiness within yourself. Yes, you can learn to love yourself at any given weight, but if you’re not comfortable, then you have to do something about it (especially if it’s affecting your health). 

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
The advice that I would like to share is that it’s doable. It doesn’t make sense to stress about the journey or about seeing results quickly. It’s about enjoying every stage of your journey. You have to develop a different mindset and know that the results will come. Be consistent, disciplined, and stay motivated. 

Instagram: @alahcat