
Sun Jan 18 14:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Oprah Winfrey Embraces GLP-1 Medication, Addresses Past Weight-Related Shame
The Story:
Oprah Winfrey, 71, has publicly addressed her journey with weight loss, revealing her use of GLP-1 medications after previously expressing reluctance due to societal stigma. Speaking on “The View” and in interviews, Winfrey admitted to feeling she deserved past ridicule over her weight, but now understands the complex role of biology in weight management. She shared that after discontinuing GLP-1 medication for six months, she regained 20 pounds despite maintaining her diet and exercise routine, leading her to embrace the medication as a long-term solution.
Key Points:
- Oprah Winfrey began taking GLP-1 medication in 2023 and found it to be a necessary component of her weight management.
- Winfrey’s weight fluctuated, reaching a “default weight” of 211 pounds, which she considered unhealthy due to pre-diabetes and high cholesterol.
- She is now down to 155 pounds using a combination of GLP-1 medication, hiking, and resistance training, achieving a physique she likens to her marathon-running days at 40.
- Winfrey collaborated with Dr. Ania Jastreboff on “The Oprah Podcast” and co-authored the book “Enough” to discuss GLP-1 medications and combat the stigma surrounding their use.
- She admits she previously questioned using weight-loss drugs due to feeling like it was “cheating” or “taking the easy way out”.
- Winfrey has been shamed publicly for 25 years about her weight.
Key Takeaways:
- Oprah Winfrey’s public embrace of GLP-1 medications could significantly destigmatize their use and influence public perception of weight management.
- The discussion highlights the evolving understanding of obesity as a disease with biological factors rather than solely a matter of willpower.
- The article suggests a shift in societal attitudes is needed to eliminate shaming and blaming individuals struggling with weight management.