Losing 30 Pounds in 6 Months: My Journey with Hypothyroidism, PCOS, and Hashimoto’s Disease

My Weight Struggles and Diagnosis Journey

Throughout my 20s, my weight has been a constant struggle, and that struggle intensified after a series of health diagnoses. In 2021, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, which can slow the metabolism and lead to fatigue, weight gain, and depression. Not long after, in 2022, I was diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), a hormonal imbalance that can cause irregular periods, acne, and weight gain. Six months later, I learned I had Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition that attacks the thyroid gland.

The two years following these diagnoses were some of the hardest of my life. My physical health challenges took a toll on my mental health, leading to depression and even more weight gain. For a while, I felt defeated, but I eventually decided to take control of my health and start making changes.

What Is Hypothyroidism, PCOS, and Hashimoto’s Disease?

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to support essential functions like metabolism, energy levels, and digestion. Common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair thinning, and depression.

PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, affects how a woman’s ovaries work, often causing hormonal imbalances that lead to irregular periods, difficulty with weight management, and even fertility challenges.

Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that damages the thyroid, causing it to function improperly. It often results in symptoms similar to hypothyroidism, including weight fluctuations, fatigue, and sluggishness.

My Turning Point

In January 2022, I decided to work with an online coach, Yaslen Clemente, through her annual 8-week challenge. She provided a personalized meal plan and workout guide, with regular check-ins to adjust the plan based on progress. This wasn’t my first time trying a structured weight-loss program, but it was the first time a plan felt sustainable.

The meal plan didn’t feel restrictive—it was enjoyable! For the first time, I wondered if I was eating too much because the food was so satisfying and delicious. Yaslen also taught me the importance of balancing macros and calories to lose fat while building muscle. I started seeing results quickly, dropping 20 pounds by June 2022. Even better, I gained confidence and found myself falling in love with the process.

While 2023 brought setbacks when my medication stopped working, I returned to Yaslen’s challenge in 2024 with renewed determination and the right treatment plan in place. This time, the weight came off slower, but the results were even better.

What Worked for Me

Here are a few strategies that helped me stay consistent and see lasting results:

• Meal Prep Made Simple: My husband and I meal prep twice a week, making lean turkey patties, rice cooked in bone broth, and plenty of chopped veggies. We stick to meals we genuinely enjoy, like burgers, fries, and even pizza, so we’re never tempted by unhealthy options. We wanted to turn all the foods we loved eating into healthy and nutritious meals. We have not once had chicken, broccoli, and plain rice for dinner.

• Morning Rituals: I start each day with 6-8 ounces of bone broth, rich in collagen and protein, and a spoonful of sea moss, packed with vitamins and minerals that improve skin, energy, and overall health.

• Intuitive Eating: I stopped eating based on the clock or the “clean plate” mentality and began listening to my body. Eating when I’m hungry and stopping when I’m full has made a huge difference.

• Movement Matters: Daily movement is now a priority. Getting in as many steps as possible has not only helped with weight management but also improved my overall well-being. I typically get in between 10-12k steps a day on an average day.

Losing 30 pounds in six months while managing hypothyroidism, PCOS, and Hashimoto’s disease has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life. It hasn’t been easy, and I know this will always be something I’ll have to work on. But I’m learning to embrace the process, listen to my body, and celebrate the small wins along the way.

If you’re struggling with similar challenges, know that it’s okay to move at your own pace. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with consistency, self-care, and the right support, it’s possible to feel better in your body and your mind.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Every step forward is worth celebrating, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow. You are capable of incredible things. Keep going.