Oprah Winfrey recently hosted a TV special on obesity and weight-loss drugs, where she shared some of the powerful lessons she learned. During the special, Winfrey discussed how weight stigma impacts men and how she had never considered it from a male perspective before. An expert on the show explained to Winfrey that obesity is like holding your breath underwater and trying not to rise, which resonated with her as a metaphor for the struggles of managing weight. This analogy helped her realize why she struggled with yo-yo dieting for so long.
Winfrey also opened up about her decision to start using a weight-loss medication, revealing that she had reached a point where she couldn’t work out anymore and was down to eating one meal a day. She emphasized the importance of allowing individuals to make their own choices when it comes to their health and well-being, whether that involves weight loss medication or not. The special highlighted the growing popularity of weight-loss drugs as a potential solution to the obesity epidemic, but also addressed concerns about their side effects, cost, and potential weight regain after stopping their use.
The media mogul discussed her personal weight loss journey and how she initially viewed taking a weight-loss drug as the easy way out. However, after hosting a panel discussion with obesity physicians, she realized that she had a genetic predisposition for being overweight that required medical intervention beyond willpower. For Winfrey, the medication helped quiet constant thoughts about eating, allowing her to focus on her health as she approached her 70th birthday. She emphasized that there is space for all points of view on weight loss and that each individual should find what works best for them.
The special also delved into how weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro work, which have been used off-label for their weight loss side effects. Versions specifically approved for obesity treatment, like Wegovy and Zepbound, mimic the body’s hormones to reduce appetite and induce a feeling of fullness sooner. Clinical trials have shown that patients can expect to lose 15-20% of their body weight with these drugs, but they come with side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. The drugs require weekly self-injections and can be expensive without insurance coverage. Medicare and commercial health insurance often do not cover weight-loss drugs.
Viewers can now stream Oprah Winfrey’s TV special on obesity and weight-loss drugs titled “Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution” on Hulu. The program aims to raise awareness about obesity as a disease and reduce the stigma associated with weight issues. Winfrey’s candid discussions about her own struggles with weight and her decision to use a weight-loss medication have sparked conversations about different approaches to managing obesity and promoting health and well-being. Overall, the special provides valuable insights into the complexities of weight loss and the available treatment options for those struggling with obesity.
