Lynsey Macfadyen, a 32-year-old from Edinburgh, has successfully lost over 8 stone (approximately 50.8 kg) through the use of Mounjaro, a medication designed to aid weight loss. This transformation includes significant changes to her diet and lifestyle, including reducing her intake of sugary energy drinks and unhealthy meals.
Before her journey with Mounjaro, Macfadyen’s daily routine included consuming five cans of full-sugar Monster energy drinks and indulging in large portions of Super Noodles sandwiched between thick slices of white bread. She described her typical day as starting with a bacon roll or fry-up, followed by a lunch of Super Noodle sandwiches accompanied by crisps and sweets. Snacks often included a share bag of crisps and a share block of chocolate.
At her heaviest, Macfadyen weighed 21st 4lbs (approximately 135 kg) and struggled with her weight since the age of 19, when hormonal contraception contributed to her rapid weight gain. Despite attempts to adhere to healthy eating plans, she found it challenging to maintain a balanced diet and often consumed up to 1,200 calories a day just from energy drinks. The recommended daily caloric intake is 2,000 calories for women and 2,500 calories for men, according to the NHS.
Significant Weight Loss Achieved with Mounjaro
In June 2024, after feeling disheartened by her weight, Macfadyen decided to explore Mounjaro as a potential solution. She purchased her first pen for £120 from Cloud Pharmacy. Since starting the medication, she has lost a remarkable 8st 2lbs (approximately 52.2 kg) and now weighs 13st 2lbs (approximately 83.9 kg), dropping from a size 26 to a size 12 within 18 months.
Reflecting on her weight loss journey, Macfadyen noted, “I thought it was now or never. I did it and enjoyed it and started losing weight.” Initially, she maintained her previous eating habits, yet the medication allowed her to consume smaller portions and still experience weight loss without adverse side effects.
Macfadyen’s weight struggles were compounded by several health issues, including a diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) at age 26. This condition impacts the nervous system and can lead to sudden seizures or paralysis, complicating her ability to cook safely. In addition to FND, she was also diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), which contributed to her comfort eating.
Improved Relationship with Food
The impact of her health issues further escalated when she sustained a hip injury in November 2024, requiring her to use a mobility scooter for four months. As she awaits double hip surgery, she has made significant strides in her recovery and overall health.
Macfadyen describes how Mounjaro has fundamentally changed her relationship with food. “I’ve never felt the ability to feel satisfied with food. Before, I was a bottomless pit. Now, after normal portions, I feel full,” she stated. Her new diet includes healthier options, such as wholemeal seeded toast, scrambled eggs, and protein-packed flatbread pizzas. Snacks have shifted to more moderate portions of chocolate and crisps, accompanied by increased water intake.
As she continues to share her journey online, Macfadyen has found a supportive community that resonates with her experience. Adjusting to her new figure has been an emotional process, particularly when shopping for clothes. She expressed joy at being able to wear medium sizes in stores like Primark, which previously had been impossible due to her weight.
Reflecting on her progress, Macfadyen emphasizes the importance of balance in her diet. “Now I think about what I’m eating if I’m going to keep this off. I took a diet and nutrition course and passed that. I’ve been focusing on how to get vitamins and nutrients,” she shared.
Through her commitment to improving her health and well-being, Lynsey Macfadyen has not only transformed her body but also her mindset, paving the way for a healthier future.
