Glitter Jelly:
I've tried calorie tracking apps and I'd have to eat less than 1200 calories to lose any weight. My metabolism has been ruined by years of undereating/restricting.
Insulin resistance is pretty rough. Cardio will help reset your metabolism.
I would recommend at least thirty minutes to one hour a day to start.
Ninety minutes would be ideal if you can eventually work your way up to it.
The important thing is to stay positive and try. Don't get discouraged by the set backs. Just think positively about moving forward towards your goal.
Losing weight isn't easy or particularly fun for that matter.
Negative thoughts about yourself and what you have to do can stop you before you even try.
Don't get discouraged. Earnestly try it. Remember, if it doesn't work for you, there's something else out there that will.
Additionally, as your physical activity increases your stamina and mood will improve. You will also be able to eat more than 1200 calories.
When I was training for a power lifting competition, I was eating 3500 kcal a day just to maintain my weight.
It was to the point I was sick of eating and would mechanically eat oatmeal, eggs, chicken, grits, broccoli, etc.
It sounds like your base activity level is about zero. At this point anything would be an improvement. Even 30 minutes of uninterrupted walking. That's easy enough to do. I usually listen to a pod cast about war hammer 40k when I do mine. I like to go a bit before sunset, you know, that golden hour. It's relaxing and the evening sun feels good on your face with sun glasses on.