The Weight Loss Battle: My Journey with PCOS and the 1:1 Diet
Let me start by saying this: weight loss has never been a straight line for me. It’s been a winding road of highs, lows, and plenty of bumps along the way. At 43, and having struggled with weight since my twenties, I’ve tried nearly every diet under the sun. But I’ve learned something very important through it all — weight loss isn't just about the food. It’s about your mindset, your lifestyle, and how you approach real change.
As someone with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), my body has always had its own agenda when it comes to weight. It’s like my metabolism is constantly in slow motion, and the usual tricks just didn’t cut it. I’d lose weight, feel great, and then fall back into old habits. And just like that, the weight would creep back, often faster than before.
For me, diets have always been something I had to commit to. I never had that “magic switch” where healthy eating just felt natural. I’m also a hairdresser, so I spend hours on my feet, often without a proper break to eat — and when I do eat, it’s usually carbs in a rush or something quick to fill the gap. Then, after a long, busy day, I find myself reaching for alcohol or comfort foods. Sound familiar?
I’ve learned that the real battle isn’t the food — it’s breaking those habits and addressing the lifestyle changes required for long-term success. Which brings me to the 1:1 Diet. Full disclosure: I’m a little biased, as I also work as a consultant for the program, but I’ve found it to be the most effective solution for me.
Why the 1:1 Diet Works for Me
First off, I need to be honest: I hate cooking. Not just dislike — I genuinely hate it. I also find meal prep to be a chore I can never seem to get on top of. So when it comes to dieting, I’ve always needed something that doesn’t require me to be a chef in the kitchen.
That’s where the 1:1 Diet stands out for me. It’s quick, simple, and takes the thought out of food. The shakes, soups, and meals are ready to go. I don’t have to spend hours cooking or planning — it’s just a matter of grabbing a meal replacement when I’m hungry. I love the simplicity of it. It takes all the guesswork and willpower out of the equation.
And the results? They speak for themselves. The weight loss has been quicker than anything I’ve tried before, and I honestly feel better, both physically and mentally. The best part? I’m not constantly battling cravings or stressing about what to eat.
But Here’s the Catch: Long-Term Change is Key
Now, don’t get me wrong: the 1:1 Diet isn’t some magic fix. It’s a tool, not a cure-all. The problem I’ve faced in the past is losing the weight, feeling great, and then slipping back into old habits. I'd return to eating whatever I wanted, indulging in alcohol, and stopping my exercise routine. And guess what? The weight would come back — usually with a vengeance.
As much as I love the simplicity of the 1:1 Diet, I’ve come to realize that the real key to lasting weight loss is addressing the habits and lifestyle changes that go beyond the food. Losing weight is one thing, but learning how to maintain it and build a sustainable lifestyle is where the real magic happens.
How I’m Changing My Approach This Time
I know that no diet will work long term if you don’t change your habits. That’s something I’ve finally accepted. So this time around, I’m focusing on the full picture:
Mindset: I’m learning to be kinder to myself and to embrace progress over perfection.
Routine: I’m trying to eat consistently, even on my busiest days in the salon. No more skipping meals and shoving carbs in my mouth at the end of the day.
Mindful Eating: I’m focusing on the why behind my food choices, instead of just grabbing something because I’m hungry or stressed.
Balance: I’m working on finding a balance between living my life (because life is for living, right?) and keeping my goals in mind.
I’m learning that consistency is key — it’s not about being perfect every day but about making better choices more often. It’s about integrating small, sustainable changes into my everyday routine.
My Final Thoughts
If you’ve been on a similar weight loss journey or find yourself struggling with weight despite trying countless diets, know that you're not alone. I’ve been there, and I get it. The 1:1 Diet works for me because it simplifies the process and gives me the structure I need to focus on my goals. But the real work comes after the diet — that’s when the true transformation happens.
So if you're looking for a diet that works without all the stress and fuss, I’d definitely recommend giving the 1:1 Diet a try. But remember — it’s not just about the food. It’s about building the lifestyle that supports your long-term goals, no matter how many setbacks you face along the way.
