Lynsey Macfadyen, a 32-year-old from Edinburgh, says a new weight-loss medication helped her drop more than 100 lbs and rebuild her relationship with food.
At a Glance
- Lynsey Macfadyen lost 100 lbs after starting GLP-1 medication in June 2024.
- She previously weighed nearly 300 lbs and consumed five sugary energy drinks daily.
- The medication also helped her feel satisfied with normal portions and regain confidence in shopping.
Why it matters: The story illustrates how GLP-1 drugs can transform weight management and mental well-being for people with complex health conditions.
Background
She began struggling with weight after starting birth control at age 19, according to the original report. She was later diagnosed with Functional Neurologic Disorder, a condition that causes seizures and cognitive problems, and borderline personality disorder, which affects self-image. She said: “I would go back to food whenever my mental health was bad, to a point where I would eat to feel better.”
Diet Before GLP-1
Her meals were high-calorie and sugary. She described eating ramen-based sandwiches, two packs of crisps, sweets, and multiple Monster energy drinks. She also mentioned drinking five cans of Monster per day. She admitted that she couldn’t plan events without focusing on food, saying: “If it was a birthday, it was ‘What are we doing meal-wise?’ or if we were having a movie weekend, ‘What food are we having?'”
Turning Point
After hearing success stories from others who’d taken GLP-1 medication, she decided, “It was now or never.” She started the injections in June 2024, the same month she first experienced a noticeable change.
GLP-1 Medication Impact
Since starting the medication, she has lost more than 100 lbs. She reports that the drug helped her curb cravings and feel full with smaller portions. She said: “I have never felt the ability to feel satisfied with food … I don’t know how to describe it, before I was a bottomless pit. Now after normal portions, I feel full.”
Lifestyle Changes
She took a course on diet and nutrition to support her journey. She now focuses on balance, still enjoying fast food but choosing healthier sides, like boiled rice with a side of veggies. She reports that she now weighs about 180 lbs.
Current Status
The biggest change for her has been the ability to shop for her size again. She shared that she had previously “sized out” of Primark, a popular U.K. clothing chain. She added: “Now I could go into any shop and pick up my size. The first time I went into Primark to fit into a medium I almost cried.”
Timeline
| Date | Weight |
|---|---|
| June 2024 | ~300 lbs |
| Present | ~180 lbs |
Lynsey Macfadyen credits the GLP-1 medication with not only reducing her weight but also improving her mental health and confidence. The story highlights the potential benefits of this class of drugs for individuals facing similar challenges.
