Weight Loss:PCOS edition
Honestly wasn’t trying to lose weight this week, because this week is my MAINTENANCE WEEK
Not bragging, really. Was really scared I gained weight because I ate Christmas buffet on Monday and stress eat quite abit. For example, ate chicken hotpot and added lots n lots of ingredients like deep-fried egg.
So seeing this weight made me relieved but also inspired to share with all you girlies what I learnt from this.
What is maintenance week?
A week where you eat at your maintenance calories instead of dieting.
You’re not overeating — just eating enough to maintain your weight, not lose.
Navigating weight loss with PCOS can be challenging, especially when it comes to balancing diet and mental well-being. From my own experience, incorporating maintenance weeks into your routine can be a game-changer. During a maintenance week, rather than focusing on cutting calories to lose weight, you eat enough to maintain your current weight. This approach not only helps prevent burnout but also supports hormonal balance, which is crucial for those managing PCOS. I remember being anxious about indulging in a Christmas buffet, worrying it might undo my progress. However, by dedicating a week to maintenance calories, I was able to enjoy my favorite foods, including rich dishes like chicken hotpot with added deep-fried egg, without guilt or weight spikes. This relief positively impacted my mindset and reduced stress-related eating. For others dealing with PCOS, I recommend tracking your calorie needs based on your activity and metabolic rate to find your maintenance level accurately. Use maintenance weeks strategically—perhaps after a period of calorie restriction or during holidays—to reset your body and avoid the pitfalls of restrictive dieting. This balance helps sustain long-term weight management and overall health. Remember, consistency and patience are key, and occasional breaks from strict dieting do not derail your progress but rather can enhance it.