Losing Weight with MS: The Struggle, the Reality, and the Plan Forward

Losing weight with multiple sclerosis (MS) is no easy feat—especially when mobility challenges limit physical activity. I’ve been on this journey before. A couple of years ago, I was at my peak in terms of physical activity. I had a robotic leg brace, but at eight pounds, it was more of a hindrance than a help. I didn’t need it back then, but now, as my hip weakness progresses, I could use the support. My foot catches on the stairs in the dark, and walking—even with crutches—is more difficult because my leg doesn’t lift as it should.

The reality is that I spend most of my day in a wheelchair—at least eight hours, if not more. And unlike a manual wheelchair that requires movement, mine is electric, meaning I’m mostly sedentary. Sure, I get up and move around when I can, but it’s never enough to create a real caloric deficit. My food choices? Not great. I’ve been tracking my intake, trying to restrict calories, but having snacks all around me for my family makes resisting them incredibly tough.

I need a sustainable plan that works for me. I’ve tried adding protein shakes into my routine, but in the winter, a cold shake isn’t exactly appealing. Cooking is tough, and meal prep feels overwhelming by the end of the day when fatigue takes over. I’ve been working with a dietitian, but honestly, she’s not helping me in the way I hoped. She holds me accountable, sure, but I still don’t follow through. I need to take ownership of this process and make real changes.

The Weight Isn’t Coming Off, and It’s Taking a Toll

Right now, I weigh 165 pounds—the same weight I was when I was pregnant. Looking in the mirror is painful. I know I used to be in great shape. I’m still a certified personal trainer, but carrying this extra weight makes walking harder. Every pound I put on adds to the challenge of staying mobile. I feel like I’m stuck in a cycle: I don’t move as much because of MS, I gain weight, and then the extra weight makes moving even harder.

There’s no cure for MS, and my medication is helping to slow progression, but the nerve damage is there. This is my reality. The weight will come and go, but I need to find a way to shed at least 25 pounds. It’s not just about appearance—it’s about function. If I don’t, I’m only making it harder for myself in the long run.

The Plan: A Sustainable Approach to Weight Loss with MS

I know what needs to be done—I just have to do it. Meal prep has to become a priority, but the key is finding a way to make it manageable. My best bet? Sundays are for meal prep. Whether I want those shakes or not, I need to have them ready. After the gym, I need a big protein shake for breakfast instead of mindlessly eating eggs and peanut butter crackers.

And then, there’s movement. Sitting burns a fraction of the calories that standing does. Even walking slowly with crutches makes a difference. I need to get on my feet more. Maybe it’s as simple as setting reminders to stand every hour or making it a goal to move a little more each day.

I have to stop waiting for a magic solution and just commit. No more excuses. No more self-pity. No more waiting for external help. This is on me. I will figure this out.

Spring is coming, and I have no choice but to get serious. I’ve done it before, and I can do it again.