How Mounjaro Transformed Eating Habits and Shed 6 Stone
Portia Devine’s weight loss journey highlights the transformative potential of Mounjaro, a weight loss injection that helped her shed nearly 6 stone and redefine her relationship with food. Struggling with emotional eating and a BMI of 38.4, Portia turned to Mounjaro in 2025 after years of unsuccessful dieting. The medication curbed her hunger and "food noise," enabling her to lose weight steadily and shift her mindset to view food as fuel rather than comfort. Despite challenges like nausea and the financial commitment, she managed side effects with acupressure bands and prioritized affordable exercise routines. Her story emphasizes the importance of sustainable health habits, a balanced diet, and regular activity. For readers in Malta, her experience resonates with the Mediterranean lifestyle, showcasing how local ingredients and outdoor activities can support long-term well-being. Portia’s journey is a testament to perseverance, mental transformation, and the empowerment that comes from a healthy relationship with food.
How Mounjaro Helped One Woman Shed Nearly 6 Stone and Transform Her Relationship with Food
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can feel like a constant uphill battle, especially when juggling work, personal commitments, and the temptations of indulgent food. For Portia Devine, a 35-year-old project manager from Ely in the UK, this struggle was all too familiar. Her journey, however, offers a glimpse of hope and inspiration for anyone battling with weight, emotional eating, and the mental toll that often accompanies such challenges.
Portia’s story began like many others. By 2022, she had reached her heaviest weight of 14st 7lbs (92.1kg) with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 38.4—classifying her as obese. At just 5ft 1in (154.9cm) tall, her weight severely impacted her confidence and mental health. Emotional eating, spurred on by periods of low self-esteem and anxiety, became a recurring cycle. Meals were less about nourishment and more about fleeting comfort.
The Turning Point: A New Approach to Weight Loss
After years of trying every diet under the sun—from calorie counting to structured programs like WeightWatchers—Portia decided to try something different. In April 2025, she was introduced to Mounjaro, a weight loss injection designed to curb hunger and promote a feeling of fullness. For Portia, the results were transformative.
“I felt like my body was constantly telling me I was hungry, even when I wasn’t,” Portia explained. “It felt like I was fighting against myself. But Mounjaro changed everything. The constant ‘food noise’ disappeared almost instantly, and I finally felt free from the grip of emotional eating.”
Within her first week on Mounjaro, Portia lost 5lbs (2.3kg). By her second week, she had shed another 3lbs (1.4kg). From there, she consistently lost an average of 2lbs (0.9kg) per week. Over time, she dropped from a size 18 to a size 8, with her weight stabilizing at 8st 11lbs (55.8kg)—a healthy BMI of 23.2.
Shifting Mindsets: Food as Fuel, Not a Reward
One of the most remarkable aspects of Portia’s journey was her changing relationship with food. “Food used to feel like an addiction. I’d eat and be hungry again almost immediately,” she said. “Now, food is still enjoyable, but I see it as fuel for my body. My mindset has completely shifted.”
This shift is a powerful reminder of how our approach to food can shape not only our physical health but also our mental well-being. For those living in Malta, where food plays a significant role in social and cultural life, Portia’s story serves as a valuable example of how to strike a balance between enjoying local cuisine and staying mindful of health goals.
Malta’s vibrant dining scene offers an abundance of wholesome options for those looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle. From Mediterranean-inspired dishes rich in olive oil, fresh fish, and seasonal vegetables to cafés offering plant-based menus, there are countless opportunities to enjoy nutritious meals without compromising on flavor.
Navigating the Challenges: Side Effects and Budgeting
Like any medication, Mounjaro came with its challenges. Portia experienced bouts of nausea but found relief using acupressure bands, which she credits with keeping her symptoms under control. At £210 (approximately €240) per month for the injections and associated check-ups, the cost was significant. To manage her budget, she opted for more affordable exercise routines, such as daily walks and Pilates classes, instead of a gym membership.
For those in Malta considering similar options, it’s important to weigh the financial and physical commitments of any weight loss program. While medications like Mounjaro can be effective, they work best when paired with a balanced diet and regular activity. Luckily, Malta’s mild climate and scenic landscapes make outdoor exercise, such as walking or swimming, both accessible and enjoyable year-round.
A Day in Portia’s Healthy Diet
Portia’s newfound approach to food emphasizes balance and nutrition. Her typical day includes protein-rich breakfasts like yogurt with flaxseeds and peanut butter, homemade soup for lunch, and comforting yet low-fat dinners like cottage pie. For Maltese readers, this could translate to similar dishes made with local ingredients, such as Greek yogurt paired with Maltese honey for breakfast or a hearty bowl of kusksu (broad bean soup) for lunch.
By prioritizing protein and fiber, she found that her meals were not only satisfying but also helped her maintain steady energy levels throughout the day. This focus on mindful eating aligns perfectly with the Mediterranean diet, which is widely regarded as one of the healthiest in the world.
A New Chapter of Confidence and Independence
Beyond the physical transformation, Portia has experienced profound mental and emotional benefits. “I feel so much more confident,” she said. “I do more on my own now—something I never would have done before. I even enjoy going to restaurants or coffee shops by myself, which feels like such a victory.”
For readers in Malta, where dining out is a cherished pastime, this newfound independence is particularly inspiring. Whether it’s savoring a solo lunch at a Valletta café or enjoying a quiet dinner overlooking the Grand Harbour, Portia’s story reminds us that food can be a source of joy and empowerment—not just a means to an end.
Looking Ahead: Sustainable Health Habits
As she approaches her goal weight of 8st 7lbs (53.9kg), Portia plans to gradually wean herself off Mounjaro under her pharmacist’s guidance. Confident in her ability to maintain her progress, she credits her success to the healthy habits and mindset she’s built over time.
To anyone considering a similar journey, Portia offers this advice: “If I can do it, anyone can. It’s not just about losing weight; it’s about changing the way you think about food and health. For me, Mounjaro was a game-changer, but the real transformation came from within.”
Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of mental health, and the profound impact that a healthy relationship with food can have on one’s quality of life.
For those in Malta looking to embark on their own health journey, let Portia’s experience serve as a reminder: sustainable change comes not from quick fixes, but from embracing balance, mindfulness, and a commitment to long-term well-being. Whether it’s through exploring Malta’s fresh, local ingredients or finding joy in movement, the path to a healthier lifestyle is within reach for everyone.