I Failed Twice in Weight Loss. Then a GLP-1 Changed Everything.

A New Beginning with Zepbound

Charles, who prefers to keep his last name private, recalls that cleaning his plate — and sometimes a second one — was a daily ritual during his childhood. This habit helped him grow stronger and eventually play college football. However, the sport left his body in a state of constant pain, with back and neck injuries sidelining him for parts of his college career. These issues have continued to affect him throughout his adulthood, despite multiple surgeries and physical therapy sessions.

At 51, Charles is now experiencing a significant transformation thanks to a medication called Zepbound. He describes himself as a “super responder,” having lost 92 pounds in just 29 weeks. More importantly, the medication has given him a sense of freedom that he hasn’t felt in years.

The Weigh-In

• Name: Charles
• Age: 51
• Method: Zepbound, 10 milligrams
• Goal: Charles had a target weight of 225 pounds, but he also wanted to address several health concerns. He was prediabetic, insulin-resistant, and suffering from metabolic syndrome, which included high blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides. Additionally, he aimed to be able to exercise again without pain or inflammation.

Progress Report Card

Charles achieved his goal weight in 29 weeks, losing a total of 117 pounds, including an additional 22 pounds after reaching his target. All of his health markers have improved significantly.

Food Noise Volume Knob

Before starting Zepbound, Charles described his food noise as being at a 10. His strong sugar addiction made it difficult to resist unhealthy foods. Now, he takes his injection every 10 days and manages his cravings with fiber supplements and a protein-rich diet.

Day in the Life

Rise and Shine

Charles used to struggle with waking up in the morning due to sleep apnea, which required him to use a CPAP machine for 20 years. He often felt groggy and drowsy, making driving dangerous. Thanks to Zepbound, his sleep apnea has disappeared, and he now sleeps better, often for eight hours without issues.

First Bites

In the mornings, Charles consumes supplements like fiber, multivitamins, probiotics, electrolytes, and Mag07 for constipation. He also makes oatmeal with peanut butter for extra protein and fiber. Before Zepbound, he would skip breakfast and often consume sweet tea, leading to overeating later in the day.

Get Ready with Me

Losing weight has made getting ready easier for Charles. He no longer feels out of breath and can find clothes that fit better. However, he spent around $3,000 on new clothes due to the rapid weight loss.

Make a Move

Charles used to struggle with physical activity due to his injuries. Now, he can exercise three times a week, combining cardio and weightlifting. The reduction in joint inflammation has made it easier for him to stay active.

Dose Time

Charles started taking Zepbound in January 2024, and he schedules his injections on Fridays to allow for recovery if needed. He experiences only mild constipation, which he manages with over-the-counter medications.

Let’s Do Lunch

Before Zepbound, Charles would often eat greasy meals like burgers and fries. Now, he eats half a sandwich and avoids sweet drinks. He followed a keto-like diet during his weight loss phase, but he has since relaxed and learned to enjoy regular foods in moderation.

Happy Hour

Charles used to drink bourbon and whiskey regularly, but he no longer touches the liquor. He also finds less enjoyment in barbecuing, though he still enjoys cooking for his family.

Dinner Bell

Dinner is usually whatever his wife prepares, such as Just Bare chicken from Costco or salmon. He now has the ability to push plates away, something he couldn’t do before.

Let’s Get the Bill

Charles is fortunate that his insurance covers Zepbound, and with the Eli Lily savings card, he pays only about $25 for a three-month supply. He spends more on supplements than groceries, which are now a smaller expense.