Clinical perspective, offered as context rather than as advice.

One year anniversary on mental health — reflections:

What I wish I'd known: the side effects are temporary, the benefits compound over time, protein is more important than I thought, and the mental health aspect needs as much attention as the physical.

What surprised me: how much my relationship with food changed, the cascade of health improvements beyond weight, and how supportive this community is.

What I'd do differently: start therapy earlier, prioritize resistance training from day 1, and stop comparing my progress to others. Everyone's journey is unique.

Following on from TrialTracker_MD — and this may be the naive question:

How long did you give it before you decided it was working?

Dr.SportsMedIN said:

One year anniversary on mental health — reflections: What I wish I'd known: the side effects are temporary, the benefits compound over time, protein…

Before/after narrative for mental health — one year in:

Before (274 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications, dreaded mirrors, avoided photos, social anxiety about my weight.

After (179 lbs): Run 3 miles regularly, pain-free, A1C normal, down to 1 medication, bought a swimsuit for the first time in a decade, actually enjoy being photographed.

Total weight lost: 89 lbs. Total life gained: immeasurable. This isn't just about weight — it's about reclaiming your identity.

Dr.SportsMedIN said:

One year anniversary on mental health — reflections: What I wish I'd known: the side effects are temporary, the benefits compound over time, protein…

True, and it depends on a baseline nobody has stated. Without knowing where someone started, the same number can be an excellent result or a disappointing one.

Correct me if the detail matters more than I have assumed.

Moderator note: reminder that nothing in this thread is medical advice, and that clinical claims need a source. Carry on.