In a candid revelation, Oprah Winfrey is breaking the silence around the shame she has carried for decades regarding her body. The billionaire TV mogul, who recently shed 40 pounds, is boldly admitting to using weight-loss medication, a surprising move given her past stance on the matter. Despite previously stating she would never take such measures to slim down, Oprah now shares that pharmaceutical assistance has transformed her relationship with her body.
The shift in Oprah’s perspective comes after a doctor prescribed weight-loss medication following the taping of her “The State Of Weight” segment for the “Life You Want” series in July. In this revelation, Oprah emphasizes that her struggle with weight is more about the complexities of the brain than a lack of willpower. By embracing this realization, she has found a healthier approach to managing her weight, opting for medication over the ups and downs of yo-yo dieting.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Oprah opens up about her new mindset and how weight-loss medication has become a viable alternative for her. Rather than sticking to a rigid regimen, she takes the medically-approved drug as needed, allowing for flexibility in managing her weight. A noteworthy example is her decision to take the medication just before Thanksgiving, strategically preparing for “two weeks of solid eating.” The result? Oprah shares that she only gained half a pound instead of the anticipated eight, showcasing the effectiveness of her newfound approach.
This revelation marks a departure from Oprah’s earlier stance on weight loss drugs, where she labeled options like Ozempic and Mounjaro as an “easy way out” during a conversation with WeightWatchers CEO Sima Sistani earlier this year. While Oprah hasn’t disclosed the specific medications she is taking, health professionals have cautioned against many weight-loss drugs due to significant side effects. Nevertheless, for Oprah, it appears to be a welcomed solution to her ongoing weight struggles.
As Oprah Winfrey courageously navigates this new chapter in her health journey, her openness and honesty contribute to the ongoing conversation surrounding body image and the various paths individuals take to achieve their wellness goals.
Written by
Derek Chan – Editor
