heavily overweight

Start working on losing weight. I see that you are already taking steps, and it is commendable! Have you tried a gluten-free diet? Have you been avoiding fried/roasted food? Have you been calorie-counting?

It is not easy -- in fact, it is insanely hard work! -- and it takes a long time to see results. But, as you probably already know, exercising will improve your mood, and the release of testosterone as a result of intense working out will change the way you interact with people (not just women) in general -- you exude more confidence and assertiveness, which will make you more attractive. Demonstrating that you are actively doing something to improve your health (and physical attractiveness) is also a very appealing quality. How often do you exercise? Do you have a gym membership?

I apologise if this comes across as harsh, but personally I would never consider dating someone who is overweight -- not for the short term, and much less the long term. It signals to me a high probability of being unable to keep up sexually (so no point in short-term dating), and a can't-be-bothered attitude towards health issues (deal-breaker in long-term dating). But it is really nice to know that you are putting in effort -- keep up the good work!