Question as a transsexual on weight loss~

Krystalmyth · July 2012

I know this may be a tricky, if, difficult one to answer. As a transsexual MTF, taking female hormones and undergoing it for some time. What guidelines should one follow, physically, as per diet and exercise especially when attempting to calculate BMR and other nutritional requirements? A simple google search does not help here, and there doesn't seem to be a lot of research either way... but seeing that this is such a hotbed of individuals who are into nutrition and diet, and helping others... didn't think it'd hurt to ask.

My confusion is whether or not to calculate my daily caloric needs as a female, or male~ seeing as my metabolism has definitely slowed and weight loss has become harder and harder. My weight is the same, but I'm obviously gaining inches in areas like bust and hips. Seeing the scale drop, while clothes fitting tighter is an awkward thing at times~ *laughs* But right now, I want to continue to lose weight. which can be difficult in a sedentary, urban work environment.

What should I be focusing on, with my current weight (161, down from 185 this time last year) to reach 130-135? I am 29, 5'5". Testosterone is, pretty damn low, and my metabolism has always been horrid. As male calculations I need to eat in the 1550-1600 ranges... female calcs want me around 1340. That's a huge difference imo... almost an entire meal for me... so not sure which guideline to follow. Since despite being MTF... I know I'm in a male body, and regardless of my identity, I have to conquer it as per what my body requires... anyone have any advice?

JesterMFP · July 2012

I really don't know the answer to this, but why not start off eating in the higher range for a while - a few weeks at least and see what happens. If you aren't losing anything, then drop it down gradually. I'm guessing with the effect of the different hormones, the answer will be somewhere in between the two, and you'll have to experiment a bit to find the optimal level for weight loss.

_Mimi_ · July 2012

I would say if you aren't losing at 1550-1600, try 1400. Or try getting in a little more movement.

While I really have no knowledge on this, it just seems like you are more female than male at this point. Regardless, those are just targets for males and females. You'll have to experiment and see what works for you.

graelwyn · July 2012

Hiya, I would experiment basically. Try at the male amount for a few weeks and see what happens, and if there is no progress, drop it down by 100- 200 until you see progress. Remember though that sometimes people see weightloss stalls from eating too little, as opposed to eating too much, so it really is a matter of trial and error to some degree.

Also try and make sure your calories are coming from healthy sources, given they are limited, as that also seems to impact weight loss for some. And move as much as you can, even with an office based job. Fidgeting even can lift your calorie burn a small amount, lol. Good luck.

bohonomad · July 2012

The other posts are right, but if I were you I'd ask a doctor or look up how hormones can affect your weight gain/caloric needs. I knew a FTM trans and he lost a lot of weight by not changing anything other than having testosterone treatments. Hope this helps.

Krystalmyth · July 2012

The other posts are right, but if I were you I'd ask a doctor or look up how hormones can affect your weight gain/caloric needs. I knew a FTM trans and he lost a lot of weight by not changing anything other than having testosterone treatments. Hope this helps.

That makes a lot of sense, since testosterone will increase metabolism. I definitely should have considered losing the weight first while I had the 'advantage' of testosterone... but wanted fat for obvious reasons.

I will definitely experiment, I was doing well at male ranges, but started seeing maintenance levels results... so going to lower it a little... but it feels like my weight loss is frozen/stagnant and it's scaring me a little. :<

Thanks everyone, for letting me speak openly about this too.

Very helpful. Still not used to really talking about this, it's only been a few months.

Angelique1984 · July 2012

Hey,

Facing the same issue as you do (mtf 6 months hrt). Basically they told me not to work out and just keep it on the down low for half a year. Well I did get thinner and fat tissue moved all over the place. I started work outs at the beginning of this month and following daily routines of 15 minutes at the moment, and I can see definite results.

It isn't so much in weight loss but getting more toned and thinner. I will start doing workouts with weights as of next week to try and bring up the endurance level. So far due to the spironolactone and estradiol i've been taking, I have only seen decrease in size so happy me

I was quite afraid of training with weights but it actually helps in getting smaller / toned muscles... Just wish there was a way to get a smaller chest / bone structure

alegutier · September 2014

I know it has been a long time since you first posted this question. I had a few answers to this. I am also Trans (MTF) and I have been working out everyday in my transition. It helps with regulating moods, feelings and speed up our metabolism. Over all estrogen will have several effects and the majority of girls will gain weight on the first year. I have lost 80+ lbs doing a combination of exercises and workouts. Few quick tips: If you are pre-HRT or are are with in the first year on hormones, Go for cardio workouts, if you use weights, go with very light weights. (This is in case you do not want you arms to get big). After about 2+ years in hormones you can go as crazy as you like with weights as your testosterone will be under control. I have so many tips for girls like us in my blog. Here is an article I wrote regarding why working out during HRT is crucial for people like us. http://www.myredpill.com/why-working-out-during-hrt-is-a-smart-idea/

feliciaboots · March 2016

Thanks for the info @alegutier - I'm pre-HRT and trying to change my diet to get a better form.

Question as a transsexual on weight loss~

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