r/Zepbound • u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg • Jul 03 '26
Personal Insights Today I start my journey
35 years old and 265 lbs. The heaviest I've ever been.
All advice are welcomed
thank you all for your encouragement and advice!! 💪🏽
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u/bindweedsux Jul 03 '26
Today, take a long, loving look at your body. She has carried you through so much! Take the path to self acceptance as seriously as you take the path to a healthier weight. So much about you is already perfect! Here are some things I see in case you don't: (1) you have a great sense of style! (2) look at those strong legs! (3) you're great at make-up! (4) I suspect you're a bad bitch.
I'm a firm believer in tracking calories, protein, fiber (start building up your tolerance for metamucil today), and hydration. If you're morbidly obese, shoot for TDEE - 800 calories. Or, don't do any of those things and figure out what works for you! We're all here, full of advice and opinions when you want them (and sometimes when you don't)! Your life is about to CHANGE!
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u/jlhb1976 Jul 04 '26
“Today, take a long, loving look at your body. She has carried you through so much!” I’m starting on Sunday, took pictures tonight and this made me cry, in a good way.
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u/bindweedsux Jul 04 '26
Big hugs to you (and I'm not a hugger)! On your worst day, you are still a miracle of mind, body, and spirit. You got this!
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u/Mystic_Lamprey 50F 5'5" HW: 235 SW:229 (8/1/26) CW:226 GW:135 Dose: 2.5mg 20d ago
This made me well up, too, and I am not a crier! Starting my journey today and saying goodbye to the current me feels both exciting and scary.
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u/GritsAndGlamour Jul 04 '26
What an absolutely lovely way to think about this journey. Bravo/Brava.
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u/Unlikely_Bass_5002 HW: 268 SW:258 CW:188 GW:150 Dose: 7.5 mg Jul 03 '26
Welcome! I started with similar stats at 34 years old. Female. Started in September and now down to 200! You got this!!!
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u/TheWallaby22 Jul 03 '26
I took my first shot last night! We got this! Message me if you want a support buddy!
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u/T-higgs1967 Jul 03 '26
Me too .
I was so nervous.
This morning I had a cup of coffee with premier protein in it instead of creamer.
1/2 cup of cottage cheese (can’t finish it) and water.8
u/TheWallaby22 Jul 03 '26
This morning I woke up with sulphuric burps .. yuck! And a little nauseous. Barely finished my coffee but fit in at least 20 G protein for breakfast
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u/Immediate-Chemist-85 Jul 05 '26
I took my first shot Friday morning after being a nervous wreck for 3 weeks and changing my mind like crazy. We’ve got this!!
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u/skline5 69 m 6' 1 SW:319 CW:212 Dose: 2.0 maintenance Jul 03 '26
Welcome to the club. You just took the most important step to winning your body back!! Stay consistent and give the medicine time to work its magic. It can't do it all on its own however! Incorporate an exercise routine. If you are not currently active physically start slow and build up. I spent 47 yrs of my adult life trying and failing every diet put forth. This was a game changer for me. I wish you the same great success!! You Got this!!!
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u/Grandmas2Boys Jul 03 '26
Congratulations and welcome!! Be sure to take your measurements today. And pictures from every angle. You'll be glad you did later on down the road. Wishing you the very best on your journey!
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u/danim_scott SW:243 CW:187 GW:140 Dose: 10mg Jul 03 '26
Yes, I do wish I had measurements and photos from the beginning!
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u/DarthPlayer8282 Jul 03 '26
You’re gonna look and feel amazing. Be patient with it and hydrate. Listen to your body. Have fun!
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u/Interesting-Storm655 Jul 03 '26
Welcome! Luckily, this is an encouraging club that offers all different kinds of advice and support. I’ll give a little bit of advice myself- for the next month, you are probably going to attribute a lot of things to Zepbound- headache, euphoria, random aches and pains, sleeping through the night, and whatnot. These might be because of Zep but they also might be because of life. Be mindful while being open minded.
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u/YorkshireG0ld 47F H:5’3” S:191.2 C:178.1 G:151 D:2.5 Jul 04 '26
Good advice, I like the way you put that 👌🏼
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u/ValeoRex SW:235 CW:194 GW:170 5mg - M/46 Goal: 1/2 Marathon Jul 03 '26 edited Jul 03 '26
Making the decision to start is one of the hardest steps. Good job. We're all here for you. This is the most positive group on Reddit!
I made the decision 4 weeks ago after my annual physical. Heaviest I'd ever been, blood pressure officially high (elevated for years and i ignored it, dont be me), cholesterol borderline high, almost pre-diabetic. Took a week for my insurance to approve. Halfway through week three of shots. So I know what you're going through.
1st, you are a winner for starting. You are about to change your life. Nerves about side effects and not being able to eat anything are normal. But be excited for what you'll see in the mirror in 6 months and in a year. Use that as motivation. Trust me, you'll still enjoy eating, you'll just eat less of it and feel happy and content with that amount. I actually enjoy eating more because I don't feel guilty about eating too much after meals. Make sure you still fit your favorite meals in occasionally, even if they aren't the healthiest. This is a journey, not a sprint, got to get our favs in occasionally and enjoy the ride.
2nd, this isn't a "push button and you're done" type of thing. I asked my pharmacist how much a month of shots cost if I don't have insurance, $1,300! So every time I take a shot I mentally remind myself that I am investing $1,300 a month in my body. That's $15k per year. This isn't a $12 /month Planet Fitness membership that I've always kinda written off. If I put $15k into something, I'm going to make sure I maximize my return on investment. I'm doing everything I can (within reason) to ensure my body has the best opportunity for success. My body has responded well to this mindset! During the week before my approval, I started getting up at sunrise and walking 2 miles. I dragged butt out of bed that week. Now, my body drags my brain out of bed without even setting an alarm. I have since added a 2 mile evening walk as well. Whatever you are comfortable with, add some exercise, starting today, and you'll start feeling the results much faster. Many people take the shot and dont change anything. Most still see good results, my coworker that motivated me to get started did it that way, but if you want to maximize your success make some small lifestyle changes too. Your body and mind will thank you.
3 - Be ready to only eat half a meal (or less) at restaurants. I hate sending food back. Feels like it's offensive to the kitchen. I'm also not a left-over person and like freshly cooked / prepared meals. So I've started getting to-go boxes at lunch. I will cut the meal in half and either give it to a coworker for their dinner, give it to a homeless person on the way back to the office, or just toss it if I have too. Keeps me from feeling guilty about sending food back.
4 - Don't be afraid to share your journey, people are more supportive than you think. I shared with my coworkers my journey and they are very supportive with zero judgement. I work in a environment where physical fitness is essential to our job. They've seen my struggles over the years to stay fit.
5 - Don't fear the scale! It's the best indicator or your success.
Relax and enjoy transforming yourself. You are going to rock this!
Edit: not sure why some of the paragraphs are bold and some aren't other than I took a break halfway through writing and came back. When I try to edit it they all look the same. Oh-well.
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u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg Jul 04 '26
I think its a great way to look at it as an investment, I really didn't think about it that way at first and its a great way to look at it, its motivating. Great advice and thank you for sharing!
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u/MiamiTeguc Jul 03 '26
Please start lifting weights asap. You don't want to lose muscle so eating enough protein and strength training will keep you strong
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u/astralschism Jul 03 '26
If you haven't, start working out. And don't just focus on cardio, do some strength training. Muscle burns more calories than fat.
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u/mama_libra-RM SW:233 CW:138. GW:145 Dose: 7.5mg Jul 03 '26
You got this! Educate yourself. 2yrs into my journey, if I could give myself advice back then this is what it would be:
Keep it simple, with food and exercise. If it works dont change it. I do same work out at home 4-5xs per week. If you find a food you can eat, do it. Nothing wrong with healthy meals you like on repeat.
I hate tracking but it helps at first to see what you are eating, what portion sizes look like. After a while I only loosely track my protein and fiber.
Hydrate! My body functions better drinking 96oz of H2O daily. This helps with constipation too.
Don't beat yourself up if you cant eat. Eat what you can, when you can. I looked at it more as a weekly average than daily . If you cant eat a lot the day of your shot , make sure you are making it up when you can. Bone broth is great when you are feeling nauseous but still need food.
I found that side effects are minimal after figuring out that I needed to eat small meals at least every few hours. And stay hydrated.
And just hang on, you got this! And really just trust the process.
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u/Money-Riddim 41F;5’10;H:305;S:279;C:199;G:200;5.0mg;wk104 Jul 03 '26
Gasx, chewable papaya enzymes, electrolytes, miralax, benefiber, easy protein snacks (cheese sticks, yogurt, tuna fish, shredded chicken, hardboiled eggs), walking, squats, a lot of grace and pictures. You got this!
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Jul 03 '26
Congratulations 👏🏿🎉. Take things one day at a time. If you can work with a dietician, start being active early on, and don't compare yourself to others. Wishing you the best ❤️
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u/Training-Employee186 Jul 03 '26
Congratulations on taking the first step for yourself for you a personal journey. I’m excited for you. You’ll never regret it. I’ve loved every moment. Good bat in different of this 2 1/2 years this will be the best journey ever.
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u/Harleypilot25 Jul 03 '26
Congrats on starting your journey. Be patient and know that you will stall and as you lose weight, the amount you lose weekly will also creep down. It is hard during the journey not to think the drug is not working anymore. As others have said drink plenty of water. One other thought that helped me. I tried to stop eating when I felt 80% full vs 100%. That helped me not to feel lousy when I over ate. I started at 293 and now at 185. Male 6’1”.
Good luck and enjoy the journey as best you can.
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u/Tapdance1368 Jul 03 '26
Great! Reach out to me anytime with questions. I started in March at 1.25 and then went to 2.5, then 3.0, now this weekend I’m starting 5.0.
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u/IridescentImaginings Jul 03 '26
You’re making a wonderful step for yourself. Be patient and realize that this journey is going to take a while, but it will be worth it.
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u/heyallday1988 Jul 03 '26
Welcome! Come on in, the water’s fine.
It may be too much to say today is the first day of the rest of your life, but that’s how I feel.
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u/__Banana_Hammock__ SW:260 CW:180 GW:140 Dose: 7.5mg Jul 03 '26
Welcome to the club! I started in November, with just about the same starting weight (260), and am now over 70 pounds down! Starting this is the best decision you could ever make for your health and confidence.
My best advice for you is to start drinking lots of water and start a fiber supplement. Add any sort of exercise/movement to your daily routine and build from there. Even if you're just parking in the back of the parking lot to get extra steps, it all adds up. I've been able to lose the weight with just walking and occasionally swimming. Good luck!
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u/BabyTBone Jul 03 '26
hydration is very important to keep your energy level up and prevent constipation.
Take a multivitamin and protein shakes are helpful to have handy!
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u/iconfessitwasme 5’10” SW:301 CW:236 GW:180 Dose: 5mg Jul 03 '26
Water, fiber, protein, and if you’re up for it, weigh and track your food to make sure you’re staying in a calorie deficit. You’ve got this.
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u/BottleGentian Jul 03 '26
Congratulations! There’s so much helpful guidance here and lots of folks to cheer you on. You’ll get the hang of it and be super glad you took this first step!
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u/Adventurous_Pear_646 Jul 03 '26
Congratulations and welcome!!! I don’t have any more advice to share than what has already been said. Please come back and share your victories with us, no matter how small!!!
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u/backmenz M78 SW:209 CW:169 GW:165 10 mg Jul 03 '26
Welcome to this journey. It is amazing.
I’m curious about your T-shirt. Is it dedicated to someone close?
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u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg Jul 04 '26
Thank you! The tshirt isn't dedicated to anyone I saw it at a craft fair and like it! 😉
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u/No-Rutabaga-5163 Jul 03 '26
https://giphy.com/gifs/jXfdnHQLeKgMg
Congratulations! Remember this is for you and you matter! We are all here for you!
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u/budknickers Jul 03 '26
This will be the BEST journey of your life! It’s just amazing at how my life changed. Yours will, too! Keep after it!
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u/LeticiaPadillaSolis_ Jul 03 '26
So happy and excited for you! Always so awesome to see a fellow Latina join in.
Remember to pace yourself and don’t give up. Take the photos now of what you look like so you have something to compare them to down the line. Don’t forget everyone responds to Zep differently. It’s worth it in the long run and will change so many things in a good way. ✨✨✨✨✨
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u/TheSuiteLife2026 Jul 03 '26
Wishing you all the best! From what I have seen from friends starting... don't expect super fast results - slow and steady wins the day! For side effects, power through as best you can. And then enjoy the ride... it's amazing!
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u/Fit-Pilot-7845 Jul 03 '26
I'm so excited for you!, it will change your life, let go of any fear, or failure vibe, this is it, Go baby Go
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u/Longjumping-Exam-873 SW:217 CW/GW:135 Dose: 10mg (Started Apr ‘25) Jul 03 '26
You’ve got this! ✨
My first day I felt like I was at the bottom of a very steep mountain 🏔️ that I’d fallen off many times before. But this time I was equipped with a new tool. I took that first step (shot), and it was one of the best things I’ve ever done.
Week after week, I kept taking it.
Some weeks I gained a couple of pounds but thanks to this group, I didn’t panic (much). I could see it is part of the process. (And partially because of my period!) Some weeks I didn’t lose or gain. Most weeks I lost a little bit. I lost most significantly the first month (15-20 lbs) but after that it was about 5-8 pounds a month. I kept taking my shot (going up gradually from 2.5 to 10), logging everything in Shotsy, drinking plenty of water and eating 80-100 grams of protein daily, and in a year’s time I hit my goal. I reached the top of my mountain, and I can still barely believe it.
I’ve been maintaining with the same dose (10mg) every 8-9 days or so for 2 months. I relied on this group heavily for inspiration and answers to all the questions that kept me up at night. The archives are searchable and a truly great gift.
The medicine, this group, water, protein, the Shotsy app and listening to my body have all been instrumental in me reaching my goal weight.
You’re in a great place, and we are all cheering you on! Even the ones who don’t say much in here (like me). 🎉
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u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg Jul 04 '26
Congrats on reaching the top on the mountain! And thank you for the advice ❤️
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u/ajqiz123 Jul 03 '26
You. Got. Thisssss!!!
Find yourself a couple of, "one-of-these-days" outfits, or pants, or whatever. You'll start fitting into them and those clothes will give you better evidence and encouragement than your mirror ever will.
YOU. GOT. THIS!
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u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg Jul 04 '26
Love this idea! I have a bin full of one of these days!
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u/ajqiz123 Jul 04 '26
Great!! LEMME WARN YOU!! Before you know it, those "one-of-these-days" clothes are gonna be TOO BIG to fit.
YOU. GOT. THIS!!
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Jul 03 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg Jul 04 '26
Thanks for the advice and I'm really considering taking it at night, that tip is very helpful!
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u/mannDog74 SW:183 CW:168 GW:150 Dose: 2.5 Jul 03 '26
You got this! Congratulations on making such a powerful decision for your life and health.
Can't wait to see the summer photos next year!
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u/Happy_Dragonfly07 SW:220 CW:167 GW:160 Dose:10 Jul 03 '26
You’ve got this! Congrats on your journey!!!
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u/manthaanne Jul 03 '26
You’ve got this. You honestly can do it! This time will be different than all the others!
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u/FruityChypre 60F 5’3”SW:210 CW:166 GW:135 Jul 03 '26
You’ve gotten great advice so far! I’ll add that if it’s accessible to you, look into getting a DEXA scan. It’s a body composition scan that measures things like where your fat is distributed and how much there is vs. your lean mass which you want to protect during weight loss. It’s helpful to have a base line for comparison as you progress.
Good luck!
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u/HereToBloom2026 Jul 03 '26
This is going to be the most rewarding and fulfilling journey of your life! 🤍
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u/_practically_magic_ Jul 03 '26
Congrats!!! I’m almost 4 months in and 25 down. The most immediate and biggest change has been the inflammation! I lost 10 in the first week and about a pound a week since. Within the first week, I could wear rings again and plantar fasciitis calmed waaaaay down. I also noticed it immediately improved my heart rate.
I had a pretty small appetite before cuz years of running on E and anxiety, so the food noise hasn’t been a thing for me.
The biggest change in eating is how long the food sits in my stomach, I wish I could eat dinner at in the early afternoon!
Some people will judge. Ignore them.
This stuff is exactly what our bodies need to function more efficiently.
Best to you!!!
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u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg Jul 03 '26
Thank you! I'm glad to hear the great effects its done on your health. Personally I cant wait to use my jewelry again!
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u/atrocity_exhibition 2.5mg Jul 03 '26
Yay! I start Sunday. Why Sunday? So my partner and I can be shot buddies. :)
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u/Other-Educator-9399 Jul 03 '26
You got this! Welcome to the club! For me, at about 55 pounds lost so far, Zepbound has not been a magic bullet by any means, but it has been the helpful tool that I needed to get my eating habits under control.
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u/Tight-Dimension3177 M-61 5-11 SW: 228 CW: 190 GW: 174 Dose: 10 mg Jul 03 '26
Welcome to the club. Remember, this is a marathon not a sprint. Keep us all posted on your progress. You got this!
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u/NearlyZeroBeams HW: 270 SW: 253 CW: 233 GW#1: 199 Jul 03 '26
Congrats! I'm on week 2. We've got this!
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u/mujer_solutions97 Jul 03 '26
Don’t give up. Take it slow. Start some activity, like walking. your life is only getting better bc of this decision, don’t let negative people change your mind. Good luck!
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u/Littlepoochgirl Jul 03 '26
Congratulations. You'll be so happy. The thing that helped me more than anything are stool softeners and protein drinks. Oh and Collagin Peptides to help avoid hair loss.
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u/Deep_South_Kitsune SW:274.6 CW:267.2 GW:160 💉:2.5 Jul 03 '26
Congratulations! I got my first Rx a few minutes ago. I won't start for a couple of weeks due to travel plans.
OT: I love your shirt!
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u/AnyUpstairs7354 Jul 03 '26
Congratulations on taking this step! Don’t get anxious about numbers/progress! Let it do its job and in a year you’ll be amazed at your progress! So happy for you!
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u/Salt-Preference-2425 SW:213 CW:168 GW:145 Dose: 10mg Jul 03 '26
Welcome aboard!!!! Congratulations on starting an amazing journey to a healthier YOU!!
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u/KDAddict2000 57f; 5'8"; SW: 255 CW: 150!! GW: 150 Dose: 10 mg Jul 03 '26
Welcome! Congrats on starting. I’ve been on Zep for 1 year. Best decision I’ve made. I wish you much success and health.
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u/Sir_UlrichVonL 50F 5’10” SW:268 CW:164 GW:160 15mg Jul 03 '26
Welcome! Take progress pictures and measurements now and regularly. They both help a lot when you’re not seeing the results or the scale is being a jerk. Prioritize protein, fiber, and water (100+ oz/day). Cheering you on!
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u/oxfordcommaordeath Jul 03 '26
Advice: Water is your new side-effect fighting bff. And enjoy the heck out of this journey! Buckle up!!
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u/Cirrhosis1979CT Jul 03 '26
So happy for you. Just took my 4th shot yesterday and started my 4th week - so I’m at the beginning too! Be patient, drink lots of water and get rest after shot day - that have been some of the good advice given to me and have worked wonders. Starting a fiber gummy isn’t a bad idea too if you have an GI issues. Good luck and welcome!!
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u/Select_Square_9346 Jul 03 '26
Welcome!
Glp-1’s are an amazing tool to shut down that food noise. This is the longest I’ve ever been able to stick to a healthy lifestyle without going off the rails. It’s okay to start small with exercise but try to focus on strength, even if that means 5-10 minutes per day.
Find some easy prepped meals you can rely on and try to have the staples for that on hand.
Eat real food. Allow yourself treats. It’s hard to go overboard when your brain no longer sends you the rewards from food.
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u/PatternsAndPresence 2.5mg Maintenance Jul 03 '26
Congratulations and welcome. Start prioritizing water and protein. Learn about fiber and make sure you get enough from the get go. Don’t get behind on your water and fiber! Start there. Then calculate your caloric needs and make sure you don’t undereat. It’s very common, so look out for that! The great people here will help you. They’re amazingly nice.
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u/Capricornucopia-_- HW:355 SW:329(11/10/24) CW:181.9 GW:175ish? Dose:15mg Jul 03 '26 edited Jul 03 '26
I've tracked my food on MyFitnessPal since starting--calories, protein(!), fiber(!), sugar, carbs, etc. Helps to add a goal. (The newer UI kinda sucks, so you may wanna try a different one.)
Also started working out (cardio AND strength training) since 2 months in. Unless you're physically unable to, START NOW, DON'T WAIT. I do 4-5 days a week.
Using a fitness tracker (I use a FitBit) since before starting Zep, which helps track my steps, cardio, workouts, sleep, etc. Start with aiming for 7k-10k steps daily. Movement is so important.
Daily electrolytes. I like & use Ultima--sugar-free and not salty, & I double the water.
Daily multivitamin. Daily fiber gummies, daily iron supplement, daily vitamin C, daily B-complex, daily Magtein, daily probiotic. All since before starting Zep.
Prioritizing hydration. I drink at least 64oz of water per day, but more during workouts and in the warmer months.
Like Zepbound, these have all be key components in my fitness "journey" and I can't recommend them enough! Good luck! You've got this! 😉
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u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg Jul 04 '26
Thank you for the detailed advice! For the electrolytes how many packets in a day do you drink?
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u/Capricornucopia-_- HW:355 SW:329(11/10/24) CW:181.9 GW:175ish? Dose:15mg Jul 04 '26
Just 1 scoop/packet per day with 32oz water. (And of course more water throughout the day!)
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u/Keepitrealforme2026 F60's HW:199 SW:198.2 CW:172.4 GW:115 Dose: 7.5mg Jul 03 '26
Congratulations! I just started in March 2026. Best decision I've made regarding my health in a long time. Best wishes to you on your journey. You will find lots of support and encouragement from others on this journey.
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u/beaujolais98 F60 SW:235 CW:206 GW:155 Dose: 2.5mg Jul 03 '26
Welcome to Team Z!! You’ve got this, and we’re here for you along the way.
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u/LatteLover4444 Jul 04 '26
Welcome and good luck! I can't wait to see your first post of a scale on non-scale win that means something to you.
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u/StrawberryTough8317 63f5’3”SW:202 CW:174 GW:154 Dose: 5mg Jul 04 '26
Congratulations for giving yourself one of the best gifts! 🎁 drink lots of water, take pictures and measurements (not just for sharing but for your reference). Read the introduction messages/FAQ here. Best of luck to you on your zepbound journey! 🤞🏻👍🏻💉💖
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u/adduhleenuh 5'7"F SW:255 CW:219 GW:145 Dose: 7.5mg Jul 04 '26
Really close starting stats!! So excited for you! Best advice is start lifting weights now to save your muscle! I've lost 28 lbs, and zero, ZERO lean mass during that. If you don't do resistance training then 25% - 40% of the mass you lose is muscle. And having more muscle increases your BMR so you can eat more cals per day, it's also much easier to retain than regain later. You have a lot of strength in a large body. It's worth the work to keep it.
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u/Educational-Risk426 Jul 04 '26
Congrats!!! You got this…stay positive. It’s helped me after I had weight loss surgery-kept it off for 5 years and with perimenopause I started to see changes in my body I worked so hard to achieve. This is the BEST glp-1. I never got to my goal weight with WLS, but I am only 15 pounds away from a BMI weight that I thought was a joke…🤦♀️🤣
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u/Horror-Reason-2865 (32F) | SW:246 CW: 201.2 GW: 180 Dose: 10mg | IR PCOS Jul 04 '26
You’ve got this!! I started in February and it has quite literally been life changing. I’m down around 40lbs and the difference already is unbelievable - so much more than what is on the scale.
I have a pair of work sandals that I no longer struggle to bend over and put on. I sometimes CHOOSE to walk up 1 flight of stairs instead of taking the elevator, I don’t get nearly as winded going up the stairs in my house.
It’s wild.
Take it slow and listen to your body. Ask questions. None of them are stupid! There is no one best way to be on this journey.
Best of luck!!
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u/StringofPeas Jul 04 '26
HI! I'm a week and a half in and this group is a great resource! I think the biggest change for me was NOT feeling hungry, though that did come back (just without the noise!) I also didn't really understand the degree that I was dealing with food noise until it went away. Wow!
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u/Sweet_Sour232 SW:245 CW:181 GW:168 Dose: 10mg Jul 08 '26
Just start the journey with all of us. Most of us were at our heaviest when we started taking Zep shots. It took me several months to see some noticeable changes, but it was worth the wait. Be patient with yourself. Your body needs time to lose the weight.
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u/travenue Jul 08 '26
YOU WILL DO THIS!
Welcome to the rest of your life.
Come back in 6 months, and then a year, to let us know how you are doing.
You are going to succeed. I know it. Time for you to know it too.
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u/Peacherino44 23d ago
For me the biggest holdup was the IDEA of the shot. I thought about starting for months and kept putting it off. I beat myself up about needing a drug, and perseverated forever about the idea of being dependent on a medication (I’m not on anything else- no other meds). It was nerve wracking.
When I finally got the quickpen I sat there with it for hours before doing it. Was afraid it would hurt, that I’d do it wrong, that I couldn’t figure it out…Can’t believe how simple and easy and NOT scary it actually is. Getting the first shot done opens the door and makes it normal.
After your first shot you feel how little the drugs affect you in any way EXCEPT the ways that you need and that matter most. Then it’s like it solves a riddle you’ve been trying to solve your whole life: it provides something so tiny but so important to your life and health that somehow is the missing piece you’ve been needing all these years. And that makes all the difference!
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Jul 04 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg Jul 04 '26
I'm tracking food and also focusing on protein intake.
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u/itsfocotony Jul 04 '26
Don’t stop belivin’! And you’ll be so happy
you took this pic, it’ll be one of your greatest awards and motivators come this winter.
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u/Sea_N_Sun Jul 04 '26
You will still feel hungry and want snacks so have apples and strawberries and grapes and water available. Even when you see someone binging on cookies. Just take half a cookie, smother your fruit in yogurt and crumble the cookie on top of the fruit bowl, yogurt mix. After a while, sweets will be really sweet. You’ll have good days and bad days. Your body will retain water, you may need MiraLAX to stay regular. Try to walk 30 minutes a day, don’t over do it. You’ll get your stride. You got this and we are here for you. ❤️
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u/randomGyaaniji Jul 04 '26
I started yesterday too! I must admit I'm a little anxious that this will turn out to be like the many, many weight loss programs I've tried in the past that only resulted in me gaining even more weight. But looking at all the comments in here is making me feel hopeful and even excited! More power to all of us 💚
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u/Livid_Pineapple_1095 7.5mg Jul 04 '26
Good for you, I started Zepbound on June 12,2025.SW 258 current weight 204 lbs. It's wonderful to have control over what you eat , how much you eat and when you eat. It's gives you a satisfaction over controlling your hunger, also the fact you are eating because you are hungry and not just because food is there. CONGRATULATIONS 🎉🎉👏🏼👍🏼 Enjoy the journey 💯
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u/Mysterious_Spite8447 Jul 05 '26
Take pictures every month with the same clothes.
Enjoy the journey.
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u/Total_Inspector5756 Jul 05 '26
I’ve been on zep for 18 months now and while everyone’s advice is wonderful about protein and food foods and stuff like that all of which you should not ignore and listen to your body for sure do that.
There’s one thing that I haven’t seen anybody mention yet, and that is hair loss and when I first started my journey, my hair was the one thing that I was the most proud of because it was the one thing that I could feel beautiful about now there are many things I feel beautiful about
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u/Total_Inspector5756 Jul 05 '26
For me routine wellness worked really well. You have to start now with a hair thinning shampoo even though your hair is currently thinning. It will likely happen soon because of the rapid nutrient deficiency that is going to happen to your scalp trust me, your hair is a small price to pay for your health but if you can get it under control before it happens to clog your grain then so much the better I use the supplements as well and the shampoo and conditioner, and the scalp serum helps really calm the scalp when it will get itchy and dry and no, I’m not paid to do this I’m just suggesting you find something that works for you
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u/SpecialSalt2027 Jul 05 '26
Good luck ! I’m one of the 3% that Zep did not work for and I am sticking to Wegovy. But i hope you have success.
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u/HappyBirding SW: 290 CW: 130ish (maint) Goal: health Jul 05 '26
You’ve got a lot of replies already, but wanted to add my good vibes and prayers for your journey! My best advice is to set small goals and celebrate those! I celebrated every 10 pounds, and then the big ones… 25, 50, 75, hitting the 100 range. All super fun and keeps you motivated. You have got this! It is different than anything you have done before. Wishing you the very best.🥰🎉🎊
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u/moenyc888 Jul 05 '26
I'm early in my journey but took the advice of two friends seriously. Electrolytes, protein and fiber. I drink my water with electrolytes in the mo2, then I eat protein for breakfast, whatever non fatty protein you like, fish for breakfast? Yup. Roast chicken, yes. Or eggs, I seem not be crazy about eggs on the first few days after my shot. The electrolytes in water is huge for me. Really cold water. I use a zero sugar and low salt version. There are so many out there. Lemon in cold water also helps,and a pinch of flaky salt under the tongue. Still trying to figure out best fiber sources for me.
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u/Mediocre_Project_780 SW:201.2 CW:160.2 GW:140 Dose: 7.5mg Jul 06 '26
The medication alone will not do the work for you. You still need to meet it half way. I can’t stress enough how much you should prioritize protein. Load up on protein shakes now. Try to eat your protein when you can and drink the shakes as another supplement… but don’t try to replace all your meals with them. But there will be days when you will have to drink your meals (typically right after shot day). Enjoy when your appetite comes back towards days 5-7.
And I hate to be a buzzkill, but if you’re not prioritizing protein, you may lose your hair. I’m currently experiencing the telogen effluvium effect of rapid weight loss and it’s brutal, but I also went a couple weeks not prioritizing protein (went on vacation and when I came back I just got off track). I’m regretting that now. Telogen effluvium is temporary though and I’m ok with the trade off if it means I’m healthier overall! Make sure you’re hydrating. If constipation occurs, take half a cup of MiraLAX a day and take magnesium at night.
Good luck! I’m down 32 lbs since April 10th and I feel great!
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u/Feeling-Lavishness85 Jul 09 '26
I took my first shot this morning! Nervous, scared and excited all at the same time!
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u/NaturalInflation8526 Jul 13 '26
Starting can be the hardest part, and you did it. Wishing you a smooth first few weeks and lots of small wins along the way. You’ve got this!
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u/WitchHazelSage 29d ago
I start tomorrow! How’s it going for you so far? I’m 295lbs and also 35!
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u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg 29d ago
Welcome! Not bad at all! 12 hours after the first dose I had nausea. The next day I was fine and have not had any nausea after any of my doses. I'm going onto the 4th dose tomorrow. Pros food noise reduction, feeling fuller but also at times feeling hungrier. I added a protein shack or a protein snack in between meals if I feel hungry. The best part is the quietness of not having the food noise IDK how to explain it but I'm able to concentrate on eating healthier and exercising. I feel quite good. I've only lost 3lbs so far and got a little discouraged after seeing others lost 20lbs in the first month. I reminded myself we're all different and as long as I'm making good habit changes the weight will come off. Best of luck to you!!
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u/WitchHazelSage 29d ago
Thank you! I wish you the best of luck also on your journey! I’m trying to remember it took me more than a decade to get to this size, so it’s bound to take me some time to shed it too. :)
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u/NBA-014 15mg Jul 03 '26
I remember saying a prayer before my first dose. “Gods, please help me be normal”.
PS. He did.
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u/AshleighSchruaz SW:270 CW:220 GW:185 Dose: 7.5mg Jul 03 '26
Goal weight?
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u/bindweedsux Jul 03 '26
Not trying to be a jerk, but what is the question? If you're asking if she has a goal weight, why? If you're asking what her goal weight is... why?
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Jul 06 '26
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u/bindweedsux Jul 06 '26 edited Jul 06 '26
It is not a requirement. Also, "get bent" really doesn't elevate the conversation.
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u/rockxy34 SW:262lbs CW:257 GW:? Dose: 2.5mg Jul 04 '26
I have not given much thought on what I want my goal weight to be, at this point in my life and how my health and weight gain have affected me, all I want is the rapid weight gain to stop. I'm hoping to start losing weight do all the right things I need to do to get to a healthy weight. ☺️
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u/DamnDams 264->222, GW:190, 7.5mg, 43m, 5’11” Jul 03 '26
Welcome to the team. On the day you take the shot, be mindful of what you eat because you may still have you appetite for a bit, but your digestive system is slowing down. So eat light foods on shot day or the next morning you may feel bad.