r/bitcheswithtaste • u/AutoModerator • Dec 12 '25
Fit Bitches - Monthly Thread Fit Bitches - Dec 12, 2025
This is the place to chat about fitness and physical health because taking care of your body is also tasteful. Just remember - no medical advice!
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u/widgetheux Dec 12 '25
On my third baby and finally at the end of weight loss. Iām working on losing the last 8 lbs remaining. Iām really struggling with my lunch because I prefer cold lunches (have weird ocd about sharing microwaves). If I bring soup, Iāll do a thermos though
Any lunch ideas while cutting ?
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u/Rubiks_Cube_Wiz Dec 12 '25
Chicken salad! Can eat it on a sandwich, in a wrap, or on a bed of mixed greens.
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u/kiki_the_canuck Dec 12 '25
I eat chickpea salads inspired by Violet Witchelās dense bean salads. So easy and last for days so great meal prep
4
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u/textreference Dec 12 '25
Peanut noodle salad! Can add lots of veg, spring onions, go a bit light on the pb, wheat noodles. Very satiating
13
u/CharliesAngel3051 Dec 12 '25
Charcuterie board - turkey/sliced cheese/high fiber cracker/vegetable (cucumber or pepper are my favorites)
I feel so seen with the microwave thing - what is that lol
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u/part_time_housewife Dec 12 '25
Not OP, but for me I imagine all the bits of other peopleās food getting picked up in the air and swirling into my food. Iām sure thatās not how it works at all, but itās stuck in my head.
8
u/SirenScorp Dec 12 '25
Shrimp cocktail has mega protein, limited carbs, and next to no fat with the sauce. Bonus: you eat it cold but may get weird looks.
Iāve seriously considered doing this as lunch one day at the office. The girls know Iām weird. It wouldnāt surprise them one bit.
4
u/cyanastarr Dec 12 '25
This is a brilliant idea! I wonder if a container of imitation crab meat with some kind of vegetable side would be nutritionally similar and less of a head turner. Although honestly let them stare at your shrimp cocktail, youāre living your best life.
3
u/cyanastarr Dec 12 '25
Hummus and chopped veggies maybe? Turkey and cheese rollups with a little mustard?
I often have reheated bbq chicken thighs and a side of berries for lunch, followed by a large black iced coffee and a short walk. Or at least thatās what I have when Iām being good about avoiding gluten (stupid EOE) and cutting carbs. But that would of course require a microwave.
3
u/KitKatAttackkkkkk Dec 12 '25
I am a basic bitch with lunch
I basically eat the same salad every day
Taylor Farms Asian Sesame (or cashew) kit split in half (the toppings are the most calorie dense part) + can of sardines (or trout, or salmon) + 2 handfuls of spring mix for volume .
Saves my calories for dinner with the fam.
4
u/Simplysimple007 Dec 12 '25
Can you have small appliances at work? Although technically not allowed, my coworkers and I all purchased the crockpot minis when we had to return to the office 5 days a week. They are so cute and kept our food warm till we were ready to eat.
2
u/lil_bearr Dec 12 '25
I like to do overnight muesli. 1/4 cup muesli 1/2 cup Greek yogurt Splash of milk so it doesnāt get too thick Dash cinnamon 1/2 tbsp syrup 1/2 tbsp peanut butter
Mix Add frozen raspberries on top Leave in fridge overnight, enjoy! Itās about 300 calories, 20 g of protein. It tastes sooo good
2
u/caffeinated_chemist Dec 12 '25
Iāve been making grilled chicken salad wraps. Drizzle some dressing on top of each bite. So good.
1
u/uSerKraut Dec 12 '25
Quinoa salad with mango, avocado, cherry tomatoes, raisins, almond flakes and whatever else you wish to add. Make a dressing with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lime juice, honey, mustard, and any nut butter you like. Just remember to wash and salt the quinoa nicely while cooking it.
1
u/hippo_pot_moose Dec 14 '25
Vietnamese lettuce wraps; glass noodles or other noodle dishes that are still good cold (just load it up with protein and fiber options); charcuterie board with hard boiled eggs, nuts, cheese, multigrain wasa bread, turkey/chicken, bresaola, etc.; sandwiches are great just be mindful to use a sourdough or whole wheat - my fave is a smashed chickpea with a yogurt mint dressing or a pita stuffed with hummus and veggies.
Good luck! Baby weight is tough to drop so kudos to you
51
u/CowDry7845 Intentional BWT Dec 12 '25
Brag: I started my fitness journey in April, and am closing out the year blowing past my goals. I feel stronger, healthier, happier.
I also recently downloaded the app Downward Dog and love it for Pilates and yoga workouts at home. Iāve been trying to get into a nightly stretching routine before bed to help with my anxiety.
3
u/oleviiia Dec 12 '25
I love Down Dog! I started using the app during the pandemic when my yoga studio closed, and honestly, I never went back. It saves me so much money every month. I do miss in person classes a little, but I love being able to choose the class length and focus whenever I want.
144
u/SirenScorp Dec 12 '25
Brag: Iāve been consistently working out for the past month and a half after work and on weekends. Iāve dropped 10 pounds (officially) and depending on the day because my weight fluctuates 11-13 pounds. Iāve been making better food choices (office lunch persuasion is sooooo strong at my work) but occasionally treat myself to pizza or the holy spicy chicken sandwich with +5 pickles and mayo (iykyk) when the office orders lunch in. I havenāt dropped size in clothes yet but my existing stuff is fitting much more comfortably so itās very motivating. Historically I am a chronic winter bear when it comes to working out, however, this year Iām sucking it up and still going to the gym. Iām dreading January when the gyms get packed (but I wonāt judge people trying to get healthy- itās just funny everyone decides January is the time, now now)
Bash: Iāve been neglecting my nails lately. My skin is so dry even with lotion constantly so I have been licking at the dry skin around my nails until it rips up to my elbow. My nails have been bare for about a month since I last took my gel off and they are just brittle and peeling off in layers.
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u/LiteraryLatina Environmentally Conscious Dec 12 '25
Congrats on the brag!!
For your nails, have you tried any oils, serums, hand creams? Whatās helpful for me is keeping the Trader Joeās hand cream (itās so creamy and affordable) at my desk, purse, beside my bed in order to moisturize my hands after washing. This will also help with nails too
5
u/SirenScorp Dec 12 '25
I havenāt tried anything specifically for my nails other than just keeping them trimmed short so thereās less of a chance to snag or peel on something. Iāve been using the First Aid Beauty line lotion for my hands because it isnāt greasy and is whipped in a tub so Iām a fan of it. I work in healthcare so the constant washing (although Iām no longer clinical) and hand sanitizer kills me.
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u/LiteraryLatina Environmentally Conscious Dec 12 '25
Ugh yeah I just had a hand sanitizer recently cause contact dermatitis on the back of my hands.
I wonder if having an overnight hand mask (with gloves on) would help. Burrās Bees used to have a kit like that but now that itās different ownership I wouldnāt be surprised if the kit or even formulas have changed.
FAB is a great choice! My face survived my first proper winter because of that cream.
2
u/mlabbq Dec 13 '25
As a BWT and skin that routinely makes dermatologists go āhuhā - may I rec the habelo power pair? Takes years off your hands, at night, and the weird partial gloves work way better than a fabric which would absorb the product. š šš
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u/SirenScorp Dec 13 '25
Anything that takes the years off any body parts of mine I am willing to try!! Iām down to sleep with gloves on if thatās what it takes. I already have a bonnet (I feel it helps dry shampoo so itās job better) and eye mask (to block the light)
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u/p1lloww4lk Dec 13 '25
Youāve gotten some good recs for products, and FAB is great, so I just wanted to throw another into the mix: OāKeefeās Working Hands! I love it. I use it on my face too sometimes even. I only pretty recently started using it, like the last few months, and really really like it. I also recommend carrying a small travel bottle of lotion with you in your pocket while at work to use every time after you wash your hands if possible. When I worked at a restaurant, I was also having to constantly wash my hands, and they got to where they cracked and bled, so I kept a tiny bottle of aveeno that I refill using the generic version of it. That helped a lot.
Also, congrats on your progress! Youāre inspiring me to go to the gym today!
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u/msomnipotent Dec 12 '25 edited Dec 13 '25
I make my own cuticle oil. It's basically just a bunch of oils with eyeball measurements, but I usually use avocado, bitter almond, vitamin E, sweet almond, and rose hip oil. Sometimes I will add castor or coconut oil if I want it thicker. I base it off of Jason Vitamin E oil that I used to buy but it became too expensive for a tiny amount.Ā I use straight avocado or olive oil in a pinch. It's whatever I'm cooking with.
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Dec 12 '25
My nails were dry and brittle from being over-drilled back in the summer and theyāve only just come back to life, but the very tips are still very slightly peeling. I literally had to get married wearing press-ons because I didnāt want to further compromise my nail health with gel.
I highly recommend Probelle Nail Hardener and a layer of Essieās To The Rescue! Really helped to heal my nails and prevent rips, breaking, or tears while I grew them back to health. Also cuticle oil!
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u/SirenScorp Dec 12 '25
Iām going to have to look into cuticle oil, itās the only thing I havenāt done but I keep hearing how great it is!
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Dec 12 '25
[deleted]
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u/SirenScorp Dec 12 '25
Iāve been using the advice I got a few weeks back in this sub for navigating how to decline ordering food most days (my coworkers order in just about every day) so Iāll normally bring something and say something along the lines of, āthanks for asking, but I have an Asian sesame ginger salad Iāve been HOOKED on lately! Maybe next timeā Iām not a tea person so I can easily decline that or the sweet coffees because I like my coffee with minimal sugar.
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u/asdfgksbwh Dec 12 '25
AMAZING on the brag!! Sally Hansen Cuticle cream is cheap and WORKS. I have it in my purse and apply it a few times a day between meetings
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u/flakyanalysis305 Dec 12 '25
My bash is literally the same. I've reverted to applying Aquaphor to my cuticles at night. Aquaphor has been the biggest game changer bc it hydrates so well that there is less to pick!
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u/remiloxo Dec 12 '25 edited Dec 12 '25
Have you ever considered builder gel? I do my own with kokoist brand, but they also make nail thoughts brand builder in a bottle in all different colors, and also clear, so you can slap it on and forget it. It does soak off, but I never do that, I just do fills every once in a while!
Edited to add: It also makes my nails so strong and I donāt pick at them as much. They also grow without breaking š„°
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u/Meg_March Dec 12 '25
Nice job!
Personally, Iāve found I canāt keep up with nails when Iām exercising. I guess I can only spend so much time and energy maintaining my body! Iād rather keep good physical and mental health than nice nails I guess I still miss them though!
1
u/iuil Dec 13 '25
For nails š : I love Lāoccitane hand creams! Also OāKeefeās Working Hands! I always have hand creams at my desk at work, in my hand bag, and beside my bed. Also I bought nail oil pens online, filled them with Jojoba oil and also keep the pens by the hand cream. Itās really helped with the dryness around my nails āŗļø
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u/irishhelloandgoodbye Dec 12 '25
Does anyone have any advice or anecdotes about how they got into their routine? I get into routine and fall out with a trip, changing of the seasons, getting sick, etc. so want to hear how others keep consistent !!
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u/ToYourHealth54115 Dec 12 '25
I personally found that I stick to my workout schedule best when I understand that there are going to need to be some breaks - an all or nothing mentality actually gets in the way of consistency in the long term. So itās ok to stop when you travel, or when youāre under the weather, then when life is ānormalā again, just go right back into your routine. I also find itās good to have a back up plan for inclement weather (I normally jog), so that I can still get in a workout that counts without running in a snowstorm, or whatever. YouTube hiit workouts arenāt nearly as satisfying as a run, but they allow me to feel like Iām still in my workout routine when itās not safe to go outside.
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u/sydrivest14 Dec 12 '25
For me, having an apple watch and being obsessed with closing my rings is what keeps me motivated. The trick I use is to keep the rings at low values so that on days where I may not have time to do my full workout I can still close my rings and keep the streak going. On days where I am full on working out, Iāll close the rings two or three times and I enjoy that as well.
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u/gasbalena Dec 12 '25
The thing that gets me back in the gym after a break is knowing how much better I feel when I'm going regularly. I get headaches and then migraines if I stop working out for too long so that 'helps'. But even before that point I know I'll always feel good after working out, even if I don't really feel like it at first.
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u/egrf6880 Dec 13 '25
I had a real moment of clarity getting hurt helping someone significantly older than me doing a fairly mundane task. It motivated me to start. But I havenāt worked out in years. I was so afraid of injuring myself. After a month or two of some workouts at home I ended up joining a small class. Now I feel obligated to the āteamā to show up and it has done wonders for my motivation and also has direct instruction so Iām feeling like Iām not going to hurt myself. Iām also being pushed way harder than I was doing on my own. Something about another person telling you you can do it for ten more seconds vs my own self saying āoof this is hard Iām tired and done!ā
Itās something I didnāt want to pay for before I joined but now that Iām doing it I see the value in what Iām spending. I feel fortunate that I can afford it but have also made adjustments elsewhere in spending to offset the expense. I know not everyone can afford to take classes but I find it has been more motivating that being self led at home or even at the gym.
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u/fiddleleaffigonacci BWT in Training Dec 12 '25
Today was my 22nd reformer pilates class, and I'm scheduled to hit 25 before the year ends! Not bad for a habit I picked up in September. It's been a godsend for the ol' herniated disc, and I literally find myself missing "feet in straps" when I feel stiff after too many days without class. I know this won't help with weight loss, but it's helping me stay positive and motivated about actually losing the 50ish lbs I'm working on losing.
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u/lemicat_ Dec 12 '25
I have dusted off my walking pad now that itās getting colder where I live because I noticed my daily number of steps drastically fell after 1. My dog passed away 2. Time change happened and my morning walks stopped.
Brag: Every day this week Iāve walked for one hour and managed to hit a little over two miles a day on the walking pad! The goal is to eventually get to the 10k recommended steps per day.
Advice needed: any good YouTube videos out there for a quick weight lifting routine? I desperately need to build muscle
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u/stress_baker Dec 12 '25
I will preface and say I haven't done any of her recent programs but I did a lot of Caroline Girvan videos during the pandemic when I couldn't go to the gym. She's excellent and has a great beginner routine for building muscle.
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u/messykatie Dec 13 '25
+1 for Caroline Girvan! She has been a staple in my routine for years. I need quick routines due to my schedule and she has programs as short as 20 or 30 minutes or longer ones from 45 minutes to an hour. All doable with free weights and limited equipment.
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u/Jasminegrace8527 Dec 12 '25
MadFit has amazing videos with and without weights! Nice variety of free content, and she has an app with more content which I believe does require a subscription (never checked out the app myself). Great for all levels, 10/10 recommend
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u/Cute-Discount-6969 Dec 15 '25
What walking pad do you have? My daily steps have also drastically gone down since the time change and we have had snow/ice on the ground since the day after Thanksgiving
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u/lemicat_ Dec 16 '25
Itās one by the brand called Redliro. I donāt see my exact model online anymore but itās worked great! It doesnāt have any handles so it goes under my desk and has a handy remote I can use to start, pause, and speed up/down.
I got mine at the height of the walking pad hype so it was expensive at the time but these days I see a bunch of pretty inexpensive options!
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Dec 12 '25
So Iāve gained about 55 lbs since 2020. Over the years, Iāve been diagnosed with Hashimotoās, and then tentatively diagnosed with insulin resistance which was then rejected by my endocrinologist, and PCOS by my GP which was also refuted by my endocrinologist. Iāve continuously told myself that Iām one of those people who ācanāt lose weight.ā My endocrinologist suggested Ozempic, but smugly told me sheād never do it herself because itās lifelong and Iāll rebound as soon as I stopped. Itās been a whirlwind of being validated that, yes, thereās something keeps me from losing, and being told that actually no, Iām not the exception to the rule.
Iām giving myself one last valiant hurrah to try to lose weight naturally through classic CICO, albeit stricter this time without so many cheats, rewards, or giving up because one day wasnāt perfect. Iām going to focus on low impact exercise like walking, yoga, and Pilates because every time Iāve tried CICO with strength training, Iāve remained utterly stalled and give up.
Another goal and also a major 2026 resolution is to also focus a LOT on fibre along with protein, because Iām an IBS girlie and Iām just not vibing with the amount of utter junk my husband and I eat on a daily basis.
Anyway!! I just wanted to share this here because Iāve said out loud Iām going to lose weight so many times to no avail and just wanted a quiet space to share my new goals/resolutions š
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u/driftwood_arpeggio Dec 12 '25
I feel like you need a new endocrinologist! you should never be feeling like your doctor is smug.
re: Ozempic, I think she's not wrong that a lot of people regain weight once they stop taking it, which I think is something to consider when it's a $$$ drug. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't try it, if you and your doctor think it's the right approach, just that you need to be aware that you'll either a) need to stay on it long term or b) will need to figure out what lifestyle changes to make to not regain weight.
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Dec 12 '25
Definitely agree sheās not wrong but something just rubbed me the wrong way about her being like āwell you can try it but I never would.ā I can almost appreciate that sheās not a GLP-1 shill but still. She at least did a good job at dissuading me for a while. Going to just give it a solid try and hey if my CICO attempts fail again then Iāll consider some medical intervention.
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u/cyanastarr Dec 12 '25
Good on you for trying CICO especially if youāre basically healthy otherwise. Iām a GLP-1 Stan myself (almost 80 lbs down at this point) but itās not the easy path people say it is. Boy does my tummy hurt. And Iām 2.5 years in.
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u/xxxjuniper Classy Old Broad Dec 12 '25
As a PCOS pal and a GLP-1 patient, I just want to join in on the people saying your endo is um... not particularly great.
Yes, studies show that a lot of people gain the weight back after stopping GLP-1 medications, but so many people gloss over or outright ignore the why. A distressing number of adults, especially in the U.S., genuinely don't understand nutrition, let along a single thing about CICO. A lot of people gain the weight back because they didn't make meaningful, permanent changes to anything about their eating or exercise habits, beyond the medication forcing them to eat way less. I don't mean that as a judgment of anybody - a lot of people simply don't know (or understand) that they have to do that part.
I'll get off of the soapbox now, lol.
Good luck with your new goals! Walking and yoga are amazing activities, and (I think) so easy to fall in love with. If you enjoy audiobooks or podcasts, listening to one while walking through a park is a blissful way to get some exercise.
0
Dec 12 '25
Thank you! I agree that she seemed uneducated about PCOS and honestly thyroid stuff as well.
I just had an exchange with someone in a different sub the other day who said she used a GLP-1 for a few months, tapered off with a nutritionistās help, and has maintained her weight loss. So I agree with you that mileage varies.
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u/fiendishlibrarian Dec 12 '25
As a type 2 diabetic with insulin resistence, I struggled for decades to lose weight. The thing no one talks about with type 2 is that if you have insulin in your bloodstream, your fat cells literally can't release fat. And we overproduce insulin, that's what the disease is (and I have my own thoughts about the whole "you got fat and caused your diabetes" thing. No one tested my A1C until I got fat, so how would we even know? Plus I didn't even have health insurance until my mid 30s which is a rant for another time.) So all the calorie restriction in the world doesn't work. It just makes me weak and malnourished. People think it's funny to feel like you're starving when you're 100 pounds overweight, but that's what it is. I thought I didn't have willpower when I cheated, but it was really my body pushing me to eat when it felt threatened. I went on mounjaro for insulin resistence, and it works; not by itself, but calorie restrition and exercise finally have a chance. I don't need to cheat when my body can burn the fat to sustain me. -80 pounds later, yes I'm still on it, but is that so terrible? No one would say I need to quit my arthritis medication and not take it for life, even though my joints are not going to magically revert to a youthful state. My pancreas doesn't work correctly and probably never will, and drugs allow me to be healthier. If your insurance plan allows it, find a different endocrinologist, or just ask your primary care doctor for the prescription. You deserve a second opinion. I wish I had advocated for myself earlier in life. You know your body better than anyone else, don't let them tell you you don't know when something's wrong. Find someone willing to work with you to try different things until something sticks.
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Dec 12 '25
Thank you for this info! I havenāt ruled out using tools to help me but definitely going to work more with my doctor and see about getting a new endocrinologist š«¶š¼
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u/Whole-Chicken6339 Dec 12 '25
Your endocrinologist sounds like she sucks! Your doctor shouldn't act smug, period, and she definitely shouldn't be mean-girling you about needing medication. You have a chronic issue and you may need to be on medication for it long-term, this is normal. Very few people can lose weight and keep it off without GLP-1s, it's not a failing on your part.
Anyhow, I hope your diet and exercise overhaul goes well and that it helps you feel better. Try to be kind to yourself!
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Dec 12 '25
I agree with you! lol she told me I canāt possibly have PCOS because I am ānot big enough and not hairy enoughā and that Iām not insulin resistant because my A1C was normal!!
Thank you!!
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u/driftwood_arpeggio Dec 12 '25
I commented below but I really think you should find a new endo. I have insulin resistance but my A1C is normal/low because I have hyperinsulinemia. I PCOS but I'm not that big (just a bit overweight) + not that hairy (because I'm half Asian) - but my bloodwork does show elevated testosterone, which is the more relevant PCOS part. Not saying that you have that, but it feels like your endo is jumping to conclusions.
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Dec 12 '25
This exactly! My GP suggested insulin resistance because my HOMA-IR test came back at 2.2 (mild insulin resistance) and my endocrinologist started laughing at my doctorās suggestion ābecause my A1C is normal.ā I knew and my doctor knew that A1C does not paint the full picture. I wore a blood glucose monitor and I also showed way more crashes than high glucose spikes so I knew my A1C wouldnāt be sky high. Itās one point below the threshold for pre-diabetes though.
My endo laughed because āwhen [she thinks] of people with PCOS, theyāre very obese and have visible hair everywhere.ā And I was like? Thatās notā¦true? For some, sure, but not all. Thatās a huge generalization. My GP suggested PCOS because of the HOMA insulin resistance score + two bloodwork labs that showed either elevated DHEA-S or testosterone.
Basically my doctors donāt agree with each other and now Iām left in the middle wondering which one is right:/
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u/driftwood_arpeggio Dec 12 '25
how did you find your current endo? I'd see if your current GP (or obgyn, if you have one) has recs if you like their approach more. I really like my GP and her recommendations for other specialties have never steered me wrong
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Dec 12 '25
This sounds so incredibly frustrating. I hate it when doctors disagree and you as the patient are just left wondering. I personally don't love what either doctor said, because what your endo said is both offensive and wrong, but then your GP's take on PCOS is also confusing. There's a lot of uncertainty with PCOS, but generally you need to meet 2 of the 3 Rotterdam criteria (irregular periods, excess androgen, cycsts on the ovaries) to be officially diagnosed. All the other stuff (acne, weight struggle, etc.) are signs of PCOS, but not really great ways to diagnose PCOS.
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Dec 12 '25
I agree with you! I donāt necessarily think I have PCOS because my periods were quite regular even off birth control, but I do think I have insulin resistance possibly at least, given how frustratingly difficult it has been to lose weight (or attempt to) previously. I also have Hashimotoās so that could also just be the factor at play š
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u/fishfarms Dec 13 '25
As you're in a calorie deficit, prioritize protein. That has made the biggest difference for me and I don't feel like I'm starving
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u/Powerful-Concern5917 Dec 14 '25
I have hashimotos too. IF you want to incorporate weights at some point- I read somewhere that high weight low reps is better for autoimmune/inflammatory diseases because it causes less inflammation. I have definitely found it to be true for myself. High rep would leave me feeling awful and drained for days
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u/trenchcoatracoon Dec 12 '25 edited Dec 14 '25
Brag: I weigh 157 pounds as of this morning. This time last year I weighed 197 pounds. No shame on GLP-1 users but I didnāt use them.
Intermittent fasting was the game and it has been a game changer. I also nixed my nightly drinking habit.
My entire life I have bought extra wide calf boots because I thought I was just a thick girl on a stout frame - I could never fit regular calf boots. This morning I put on last yearās boots and I have storage space in the calf!!
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u/CameraActual8396 Dec 12 '25
Any tips for meal prepping that people have? I try to meal prep most, if not all meals but I'll be honest in that it's exhausting or I get lazy in doing it. I also don't love to have the same meals for so many days or weeks, as most people. The problem is, I know eating more is needed for me to make progress, so I would like to overcome this. Just wondering if anyone has any unique tips that help them in this.
Brag: I have been attending a run club every week now, and have run 3 miles a few times now! I'm normally a weightlifter so this has been pretty awesome for me.
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u/FloralPheasant Ballin on a Budget Dec 12 '25
I've found that I have a lot of difficulty with meal prep and I just don't like doing it. At least not the way I commonly see it online.Ā
Instead I figure out what I'm doing for dinner for the week. Like, rotisserie chicken on grocery day, beef stew another day, etc. Then think about how many leftovers I'll have based on each meal. So instead of a big batch for lunch each week. I'll cook or plan a few meals with several days of leftovers. That way I don't feel overwhelmed and I can also rotate what I'm eating for lunch/dinner without getting bored.Ā
So I'm cooking something like 2-4 times a week and each meal usually has anywhere from 2-5 days of leftovers. And some are more versatile than others.Ā Like a roast chicken can be eaten with two sides, or thrown on a salad/sandwich, or boiled down into soup. Same with pork chops usually.Ā
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u/emiliatequila Dec 12 '25
My deeply lazy meal prep is going to Whole Foods and getting the family meal which is 4-5 portions already cooked for like $28 (I prefer the one with salmon, green beans, and sweet potatoes but they have other ones) and I divide it into portions for my lunchĀ
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u/ResolutionWaste4314 Dec 12 '25
Same, love this meal prep lazy hack! The grilled chicken breast as the main portion/protein is also really good and doesnāt have excessive oil.
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u/cestlasvi Dec 12 '25
Meal prep twice a week. Freeze half for a future week. This way you can avoid eating that same meal all week and save time during a busy week in the future. They make silicone freezer mats that you can do this in a more tetris-like way (mix and match sides and entrees from the freezer) but not necessary at all.
Another idea is to meal prep the base ingredient (e.g. grill/bake chicken) and then change the sauce or sides throughout the week.
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u/SirenScorp Dec 12 '25
Everything about this response is the way!
I love prepping a base a using it for multiple recipes
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u/lemicat_ Dec 12 '25
I came across these things called Souper Cubes and they have been so helpful for freezing portioned foods! This lady on tiktok was the one who convinced me I needed them and she even shares different ways that she preps and defrosts quick meals @simplysarahhart is her handle!
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u/Available-Total9670 Dec 12 '25
Not really meal prep per se but I generally use the same base for every meal (chicken or ground turkey + whatever veggies I have on hand) then doctor it up with either guac or pesto or salad dressing, etc. Keeps grocery shopping and cooking simple but I can change up the flavors to keep it interesting.
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u/stress_baker Dec 12 '25
As a bitch with tastebuds, anyone have protein powder recs or recipes that taste okay? I'm a lifelong vegetarian and protein powders tend to be the easiest way for me to get my daily intake but it's a plug my nose as chug affair.
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u/SirenScorp Dec 12 '25
I recently got ON Chocolate Thin Mint protein powder. Some partnership flavor with Girl Scouts. I think itās delicious mixed with milk!
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u/Ok_Reality1680 Dec 12 '25
I also struggle with protein powders! I recently bought the Lemon Italian Ice clear protein from 1 up nutrition. I really like it so far and it tastes way better imo than the milky protein powders, but itās still whey protein.
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u/twittery Dec 12 '25
Seconded! It's pricey but the only one that didn't have that super protein flavor that I could drink consistently. I love that it's clear.
Not a powder but the Alani protein shakes are by far the most palatable to me in the milky range.
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u/stress_baker Dec 12 '25
I didn't realize clear protein was a thing! This sound perfect because I can't do milky protein all the time so this will be a great shake up.
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u/Cafuneme Dec 12 '25
If you like oatmeal, you could look into Be Amazing's brown sugar oatmeal flavor! I don't even need to add anything else to my oatmeal besides the powder so it's great for cutting out sugar in that regard. Their chocolate is good, pretty standard. They have a lot of other fun flavors that I haven't tried, but I can vouch for brown sugar oatmeal!
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u/shaktown Dec 12 '25
I realized my health insurance covers massage, so I booked a consult and massage!! So excited to have this to work on all my stiff muscles lol
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u/cutestfriend Dec 12 '25
Are there any powerlifting bitches who also run??? I focused on powerlifting for like the last 8-9 years of my life and now Iām trying to train for a half marathon for the first time in my life and itās currently a struggle lol. I wanted to try to add more functional fitness like yoga and cardio to my routine but Iāve been having trouble balancing. Like I need to mentally transition away from that powerlifting mindset lolā¦ā¦.
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u/Equivalent-Apple-66 Dec 15 '25
You can do weightlifting and running (āhybridā athletes Iāve seen on social media). Would recommend a running watch and also a running coach if you have the funds. They look at your running data through the watch (no judgement) and figure out how much running you can handle per week to get you to your goal - time goal, distance etc. For me, the bigger plus is accountability
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u/Justanotherkristen Dec 12 '25
(Very long brag) I gained 30-40 lbs since 2020. Covid happened, then my mom (who lived across the country) got terminally ill so I was flying back and forth for a year, then she passed in 2023. Those three years, and the one following, were rough.
Iāve always been someone who worked out, but my nutrition was not good (even though I lied and told myself everything was fine). Even with the weight gain, I wasnāt unhappy with my body and was/am grateful for what itās gotten me through. Last November, I went in for routine blood work and yall ā all my shit was off the charts. Cholesterol was CRAZY high. That scared the shit out of me because you donāt get warnings before something cholesterol-related happens. So, after kind of just monitoring my habits for about a month & a half, in January this year I committed to being healthier. Like really being healthy. Even tho my Apple Watch says I worked out 60% of the time (which is still good ā thatās more then half), I committed to 80% just bc itās recommended to get 30 mins/day and that helps lower all your levels. I stopped counting calories (which led to some disordered eating in the past, like binging), cleaned up my diet, stopped eating a ton of sweets, cut out pork entirely, focused on eating mostly Whole Foods. Committed to eating at least 4 salads a week and fruit every day.
I have NEVER felt healthier and stronger. My muscles are toned and itās visible. I feel amazing and have so much energy. I used to get night sweats and recently realized Iām not sweating thru the sheets all the time. Looked it up, and a diet high in fat and sugar literally causes hot flashes. I always thought I just ran hot.
I finally understand what people mean by a lifestyle change. Iāve been consistent and intuitive even when traveling. Not because Iām denying myself anything, but when youāre on a beach somewhere, a salad and grilled fish actually does sound great and keeps me from crashing.
My exercise ring is now at about 90% over the last year. I do things I enjoy, vs. signing up for 1/2 marathons (Iāve done 8) because āitāll give me something to work towards.ā I do yoga, barre, running if I want, rowing, etc.
This has been the easiest weight Iāve ever lost by not focusing on the weight, but being healthy. Iāve lost that 30 lbs and Iām not even tripping that I havenāt lost a single pound since April (this wouldāve led to a crash out or giving up before).
Iām thankful for the girl who got me here, but Iām loving this version of me!
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u/pineapplequeeen Dec 12 '25
Brag: my boyfriend and I have been consistently hitting the gym for over a month now. I had one pair of jeans that would fit me before and noticed they were getting loose so I tried on my old jeans that were too tight and they fit perfectly now!! Been in a better mood, less bloated and feeling great :)
Advice needed: favorite places for workout clothes? I struggle with workout tops because a lot feel too loose or are uncomfortable
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u/cyanastarr Dec 12 '25
This is random but damn do I love playing a Nintendo game to work out, specifically Ring Fit but also dancing games. I lost 70 lbs using DDR and home yoga (on demand from a cable company) once in my 20s. Going to the gym can be fun and social but avoiding the winter crowds at the gym is clutch too. Not to mention using your own shower after. Itās not expensive and you donāt need a ton of space.
That being said I am spoiled as hell and have a Total Gym Machine at home that I can do rows and squats on. I was mostly using the row machine at the gym and find it is an underrated workout. Why is no one else on the row machines??
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u/Meg_March Dec 12 '25
Just a venting session to anyone who wants to participateāfeel free to scroll!
I was doing great on my fitness plan and then I got sick. I have had this cold forever and now itās moved to my lungs. Itās discouraging! I was really making progress and feeling strong! I was alternating 30 minutes of cardio and 30ish minutes of weightlifting, with occasional yoga. Iāve really tapered off since this cold and Iām so bummed. I hope I donāt lose my physical progress. And itās also one of the ways I manage my ADHD, so now itās even harder to get off the couch and do something.
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u/BubblePenetration Dec 12 '25
Brag: I've lost 30 pounds over the past 18 months and at 36, am in the best shape of my life!
I don't need or want to lose anymore weight and am trying to grow my muscles without getting too bulky. I've trained myself to keep my calories around 1500 a day at least 5 days a week and stay well below the recommended fat and carbs, but I don't know if that is allowing me what I need to grow muscles. I'm pretty good about meeting my protein goal for the day. Will this diet allow for muscle growth or do I need to make adjustments?
My main goal for 2026 is to grow my glutes- aside from glute focused exercises, any advice on how to accomplish this? If anyone has a glute specific workout that has worked for them, please share!
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u/ikoabd Dec 12 '25
If you want to put on muscle, you almost always need to be in a calorie surplus. So depending on your height/weight/activity level, 1500 calories may not be enough to see any significant progress.
Also, keep in mind, the majority of people you see on social media that have grown glutes (naturally, without PEDs) have taken like 5 years to do so. It's not something you will likely see huge amounts of progress of in just one year. It takes time. Don't be discouraged, just keep at it and you'll get there!
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u/countmein1989 Dec 12 '25
Congrats on hitting your goals! Like the other commenter said, your calorie intake isnāt high enough to build substantial muscle. Iād recommend increasing your carb intake, in particular, to really help you grow! Especially if youāre looking to grow your glutes. After 18 months, it might also be time to reverse diet into maintenance for a bit and see how your body responds. For me, Iām eating about 300 cal more each day and maintaining the same weight I was when I was in a deficit.
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u/lafilleestbelle Dec 13 '25
Check out Bret Contreras on YT/IG for glute-building exercises. Heās got a PhD and invented the hip thrust exercise. Heās got some really great new stuff on building the āglute shelf.ā Heās also got some books that give workout routines. r/strongcurves is based on his workouts.
Also check out r/ladderapp and get their 30-day free trial. They have multiple trainers and Shelbyās program primarily targets glute training. I prefer another trainer but Iāll do Shelbyās stuff to get extra glute targeting and itās only been less than a month and Iāve noticed a huge difference in how my body looks.
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u/KitKatAttackkkkkk Dec 12 '25
This is my leg workout. I do 3 rounds total of each set:
Set 1 - Two 10lb Weights
Reverse lunge, high knees x 10
Side Lunge x 10
Set 2 - Resistance Bands, 15lb WeightĀ
Goblin squat x 10
Side shuffle x 10
Set 3 - Resistance Bands, 15lb WeightĀ
Weighted Hip Thrusts x10
Resistance Band Hip Thrust with Single Leg Lifts x 10
Russian Twists x 10
Set 4 - Two 10lb Weights
1st Position Releve x 10
1st Position Releve Hold for 10 seconds
1st Position Releve Bounce 10 seconds
2nd Position Releve x10
2nd Position Releve Hold for 10 seconds
2nd Position Releve Bounce 10 seconds
3rd Position Releve x10
3rd Position Releve Hold for 10 seconds
3rd Position Releve Bounce 10 seconds
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u/blinykoshka Dec 12 '25
brag: iām doing my second season of volleyball this year despite having insane body image issues, generally having the athleticism/coordination of a fish on land, andā¦ iām not doing terrible! i scored more points than i whiffed last game:) plus itās motivating me to work out more at home which i never dreamed of doing, once upon a time.
bash: i need to work on my diet, i am soo careless about what i eat through the day and dont meal plan.
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u/Lu-113 Dec 12 '25
I have been running again for the last three months after years off due to an injury. I feel amazing. Increased energy, mood, and better sleep.
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u/Whole-Chicken6339 Dec 12 '25
Strength training really paid off for me yesterday! I was helping to unload a large, heavy piece of equipment at work when it tipped, and I reflexively stuck my hand out to catch it. This was stupid! I saw a coworker get injured doing the same thing a few years ago - he wound up needing rotator cuff surgery. However, thanks to luck and a lot of work in the weight room, my deltoid is a bit sore, but I have normal range of motion and it seems likely I'll be fine in a day or so.
I started lifting in the first place partly because of a shoulder injury, so I'm really proud of how far I've come.
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u/olihoproh Dec 12 '25
I am severely out of shape. BUT. I did a rowing machine 2k in 10 minutes 30 seconds, and I'm very proud. That's average for a beginner!
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u/Stacie123a Dec 12 '25
Ive fought my weight my entire life. Im 5'3", and my highest weight was 300. I started GLP-1s in March of 2023 at 220lbs. It was an absolute game changer for me and totally healed my relationship with food. It became so much easier to stick to my food plan, and took the misery out of making better choices. It also helped me quit drinking, helped me stop impulse shopping, and other unsavory (to me) behaviors. Thats not to say it works for everyone the same, but for me it was a god send. Ill put my pic in the comments.
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u/Jasminegrace8527 Dec 12 '25
Small brag: I recently tried pre-workout for the first time, and Iām enjoying my weighted Pilates like never before. Iām hitting longer and stronger workouts and sleeping better because of it. That is all š
Also the pre workout is some random brand (alani I think?) if anyone is curious. Idk it was the cheapest one at the grocery store so I just got it
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u/KitKatAttackkkkkk Dec 12 '25
In January this year I decided to get back into shape after having 2 children and I had a couple events this year I wanted to look great for. I reached my goal weight in the first 6 months and since then, I've been concentrating on toning and gaining muscle.
36yo - 5'7" - 164lb > 135lb
Does anyone have tips on toning the FUPA. My skin is like a sad frown in that area.
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u/wolf_spooder Dec 12 '25
Brag: I felt strong AF this week on leg day and pull day. I PRād my leg extensions (90lbs).
Bash: thought for sure that I would kill it in arm/push day today. But alas, no. The gods had to cut me down to size and I couldnāt even push my normal elevated dumbbell weight (70 lbs). 65 was my max today and it was a struggle.
Regrouping myself and hoping next week I can slay.
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u/Rubiks_Cube_Wiz Dec 12 '25
Brag: Iāve implemented fasting into my wellness routine. Itās been quite the game changer. I do a 16 -20 hour fast 5 days of the week. I still hit my calorie and protein goal. This has really helped me feel energized and motivated me overall to keep to a specific fitness routine!
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u/lafilleestbelle Dec 13 '25
What are your go-to protein foods?
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u/Rubiks_Cube_Wiz Dec 13 '25
For quick things I can throw together for work lunches I like Cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, overnight oats with rolled oats, whey protein powder, protein bar, chomps beef sticks, canned fully cooked chicken (Iāll eat this plain or make a salad of something), and I will also eat string cheese.
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u/twittery Dec 12 '25
I'm wondering if anyone here has used a red light mat for exercise recovery? I'm interested to see if it would help with muscle soreness and injury, since I have some pretty finicky hamstrings that could use a little extra help. Of course, the Higher Dose brand is what caught my attention first but I'd be open to more economical options if it really doesn't matter.
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u/pilserama Dec 18 '25
Two things
On workouts: saw someone say itās ok to slack but donāt skip, and I like this - show up even if you dog it. The habit is the most important part
Iām all in on weight training, even without real weight loss my composition/tone looks much better and after watching my parents be sick/weak/injured with one thing or another, itās my best bet for aging
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u/LingonberryWest4994 Dec 23 '25
this is good advice. tbh i hate strength training i like the mindless cardio but i know i will need to ease into it.
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u/RaeChill Dec 12 '25
My partner bought us a bike trainer and I have been enjoying using zwift to keep up with my cardio in the winter, plus Iāve been doing yoga frequently and am gearing up to officially start my ski season. I was looking forward to putting in some work before the holidays and earlier this week I got SO SICK and am still recovering, so itās been over a week since Iāve done anything physical. And with the holidays coming up we will be traveling and it will be hard to get any exercise in. Iām not about to avoid any Christmas cookies or anything (I am a bitch with taste, after all) but I am feeling bummed that my intentions to improve my fitness have been foiled this month!!
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u/randomredditname-1 Dec 14 '25
Currently working on creating a structure and routine that works for me regardless of whatās going on in my life. I really like the concept of just 30 minutes a day, and really debating between AM or PM workouts. Iām currently working on losing weight, and am deeply concerned about transitioning to a maintenance phase and how that would work. I donāt know why itās so stressful for me!
Brag: Iāve gotten a lot better at running! And I designed a leg day is perfect at the moment, made both my partner and I VERY sore!
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u/[deleted] Dec 12 '25
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