Kathy Bates has recently made headlines for her slim new physique, which she achieved through hard work over the past seven years. The 76-year-old actress lost 100 pounds, with 80 pounds coming off after she made changes to her diet and lifestyle following a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis in 2017. Bates clarified that while Ozempic helped her drop the last 20 pounds, the majority of her weight loss journey was due to her own efforts. She emphasizes that losing weight during the pandemic was a challenge, but she was committed to making lasting changes.
After being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, Bates decided to overhaul her relationship with food, which she used as a coping mechanism for fear and low self-esteem. Witnessing the impact of diabetes on her family members, including her father’s leg amputation and her sister’s struggle with the disease, motivated Bates to take control of her health. She started by tuning into her body’s signals of fullness and being more mindful of what she ate, cutting out unhealthy foods and stopping eating after 8 p.m.
Although Bates is stricter about her diet now, she allows herself occasional treats, such as indulging in a hot dog when food trucks visited the set of “Matlock.” She acknowledges the importance of balance in maintaining her healthy habits. In terms of exercise, Bates plans to incorporate more physical activity into her routine, considering options like Pilates and using a treadmill at home. She emphasizes the significance of staying committed to her health and avoiding slipping back into old habits.
In addition to helping Bates feel better physically and emotionally, her weight loss has had positive effects on managing her lymphedema, a condition she developed after her battle with breast cancer. She no longer needs to wear compression sleeves every day, and the weight loss has made simple tasks like putting on a jacket easier for her. Bates credits her improved health and stamina to her weight loss journey, enabling her to continue working as an actor without the physical limitations she faced in the past.
Bates shared insights into her weight loss journey in a January 2019 interview, highlighting the importance of mindfulness and listening to your body’s signals when it comes to eating. She learned to recognize the point during meals when her body indicated she was full and push her plate away, acknowledging that patience and determination were key factors in her successful weight loss. Bates attributes her ability to maintain her progress to her commitment to making lasting lifestyle changes, rather than relying on short-term fixes like willpower.
Overall, Kathy Bates’ weight loss journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and mindfulness in achieving significant health goals. By addressing her relationship with food, making conscious choices about what she eats, and incorporating exercise into her routine, Bates has not only transformed her physical appearance but also improved her overall well-being. Her story serves as an inspiration for others looking to embark on a similar path towards healthier living.
