Beating Breast Cancer and Tamoxifen Weight Gain: Michele’s Story
“I looked at some photos from a year ago and I was really shocked at how different I look… even my complexion looks so much better ❤️. I can’t thank you enough for all you have done to get me on a healthy way of life agin. “
Name: Michele Clancy 52
Hometown: Lynn Haven, Florida
I am married with one son and two grandchildren. I currently work in Payroll processing for an accounting department.
My Journey with Breast Cancer
Back in 2023, I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma—a form of breast cancer. Hearing that news was devastating, but I knew I had to fight. I found an excellent surgeon and dug deep to find the determination to overcome this disease.
For those of you that don’t know what 33 rounds of radiation will do to you, and I hope you do not, it is extremely hard on your entire body to include your immune system these effects last for well over a year after completion. Then there are post treatment medications, such as Tamoxifen which will suck every bit of estrogen out of your system. Not the best for trying to lose fat or get in shape, the inside joke is “They don’t call it Tamoxithin”
All of this left me out of shape, overweight, and searching for a way to overcome this situation.
How I Got Started with Online Fitness Coaching
I had been receiving Julie Lohre’s newsletters for years—always full of helpful information—but there was one specific newsletter that really hit home for me. She shared her own story of battling breast cancer (twice!), undergoing surgery, and even taking the same post-treatment medications as me. I thought to myself, this is someone who knows exactly what I’m going through and what I need to get back in shape.
I had never considered working with an online trainer before, all it took was talking to Julie on the phone and I was certain she would be the perfect person to hold me accountable and keep me on track.
The Changes I Noticed | Losing Weight While On Tamoxifen
It did not take long working with Julie before I noticed a difference. Not much more than a month into the program I began feel healthier and could see improvements in the gym. At four months in I had to buy new clothes! That was an excellent motivator to keep me pushing hard in the gym and staying on track with my diet.
One of the best things about working with Julie, besides the results, is the way she listens to and works with me. For example, I have a bad shoulder so there are some movements that I find difficult to perform. Julie understands this and will always give me a different or modified exercise that will work with my injuries.
Michelle’s Transformation
The changes that Michelle made overall in her journey to lose weight while on tamoxifen were incredible. It was a lot of hard work and took consistency, but slowly over the course of a year we transformed Michelle’s physique. The best part is that everything we did with training and nutrition was designed to support her metabolism and provide lasting, lifelong results. No quick fixes!
The overall results on the scale and in my measurements were incredible…
Total Weight Loss: 44 Pounds (48-50 Pounds of Bodyfat!)
Muscle Gain: Approx 5 Pounds
Hips: Down 14 Inches
Waist: Down 11.5 Inches
Thighs: Down 7+ inches off each thigh
Fit Test Results
Improved her Pushup Strength from 5 to 44
Shaved 4 mins off her 3 mile Bike time
Improved Flexibility by 7.5 inches
Improved Long Jump by 9.5 inches
Most Challenging Part?
The hardest part for me? Getting all my steps in for the day. With an office job, it is difficult to find the opportunity to move around during the day.
Supplements That Helped Me
I’ve found a few supplements from Beverly International that really made a difference in my journey:
- UMP Protein Powder : I use it in shakes, for cooking, and more—it’s incredibly versatile.
- Glutamine Select: My husband always makes sure we have some on hand for my post-workout treat.
- Lean Out, GH Factor, and Collagen Peptides: These have all been part of my routine and have supported my progress.
The Confidence I’ve Gained
It’s not just about how I look—though I’m thrilled with my progress—it’s about how I feel. Recently, on a trip to Las Vegas, we visited the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam. The tour guide told us we had to hustle to stay on schedule, and I took her literally! I bounded up six flights of stairs two at a time, leaving everyone else, including my husband, in the dust.
That moment reminded me just how far I’ve come. I feel like an athlete again.
What’s Next
Working with Julie has not only helped me reclaim my health but also given me back my confidence. I feel great, I love the way I look, and I’m excited for the adventures ahead.
If you’re struggling after breast cancer treatment and cannot seem to lose weight while on tamoxifen, I can’t recommend Julie enough. She understands the unique challenges and knows how to help you overcome them.
FAQ: Losing Weight While on Tamoxifen
1. Can you lose weight while taking Tamoxifen?
Yes, losing weight while on Tamoxifen is entirely possible, but it requires a strategic approach. Tamoxifen can alter your hormonal balance, which may slow metabolism and make your body more prone to storing fat. This doesn’t mean weight loss is impossible—it just means your body may respond differently than it did before treatment.
The key to success is creating a modest calorie deficit in a sustainable and healthy way. Start by focusing on a nutrient-dense, macro-balanced diet that includes lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Protein, in particular, is essential because it helps maintain muscle mass, keeps you full longer, and supports recovery. Aim for small, consistent meals throughout the day to stabilize your blood sugar levels and prevent cravings.
Pair your nutrition plan with regular exercise, including strength training to build muscle and increase your metabolic rate. Even moderate activity, like walking or yoga, can help reduce stress and support weight loss. Lastly, be patient with your body—results may come more slowly, but they are achievable with consistency and dedication.
2. Why does Tamoxifen cause weight gain or make it hard to lose weight?
Tamoxifen impacts your body by blocking estrogen, a hormone that plays a significant role in regulating your metabolism, energy levels, and how your body stores fat. Without estrogen’s balancing effects, it’s common to experience a slower metabolic rate, increased fat accumulation, and changes in where fat is stored, often around the midsection.
Additionally, Tamoxifen can cause fatigue, mood swings, and joint pain, all of which may make it harder to stick to an active lifestyle. Combined with the after-effects of cancer treatments like radiation or chemotherapy, these challenges can feel overwhelming.
However, understanding these changes can help you take proactive steps. Focus on improving the quality of your diet by cutting out processed foods and sugary snacks, which can worsen hormonal fluctuations. Instead, choose whole foods that provide steady energy and help manage inflammation, such as leafy greens, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. It’s also helpful to track your meals to ensure you’re staying within your calorie and macronutrient goals.
Remember, weight management while on Tamoxifen isn’t just about the scale. Celebrate non-scale victories like increased strength, improved energy levels, and better overall health.
3. What type of exercise is best for losing weight on Tamoxifen?
The best exercise plan while taking Tamoxifen is one that balances strength training, cardiovascular activity, and flexibility work. Strength training is especially effective because it helps you build lean muscle, which increases your resting metabolic rate and burns more calories, even at rest. Aim for 3-4 sessions per week, targeting all major muscle groups with exercises like squats, lunges, rows, and presses.
Cardio also plays an important role in weight loss and overall heart health. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming can help you burn additional calories and boost your endurance. Start with 20-30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio 2-3 times per week and adjust based on how your body feels.
Don’t forget about flexibility and recovery-focused exercise like yoga or stretching. These activities can help reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and support recovery, making it easier to stick to your routine long-term.
If you’re struggling with energy levels or joint discomfort, modify your workouts as needed. For example, if running feels too intense, walking or using a stationary bike are excellent alternatives. Focus on consistency over perfection, and remember that even small amounts of movement add up over time.
By combining these different types of exercise and tailoring them to your energy levels, you’ll create a sustainable routine that really does help you lose weight while on tamoxifen.
As a two-time breast cancer survivor, I intimately understand the unique challenges that come with reclaiming your health and confidence after treatment. With my personalized online fitness and nutrition coaching, I’ll guide you every step of the way, tailoring a plan that works for your body, your goals, and your life.
