Media titan Oprah Winfrey has shared new and surprising details about her experience with popular weight loss medications, revealing effects that went far beyond just shedding pounds.
From Food Noise to Freedom: Oprah's Medication Journey
The 71-year-old television icon first confirmed in December 2023 that she had incorporated a GLP-1 receptor agonist drug into her health regimen. She described it as a "maintenance tool" used alongside consistent diet and exercise.
While Winfrey has chosen not to name the specific brand, this class of medication includes well-known names like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. The impact, however, has been significant. She credits the drug with helping her lose more than 40 pounds and, crucially, quieting the persistent "food noise"—the constant mental chatter about eating—that had plagued her for years.
Unexpected Side Effects: No Alcohol, Daily Workouts
In a recent interview, Winfrey disclosed several changes she did not anticipate. One of the most striking is that she has completely stopped drinking alcohol. She explained she simply lost all desire for it, despite having a history of being able to drink heavily.
This aligns with emerging research suggesting GLP-1 drugs may reduce cravings by influencing the brain's dopamine-related reward pathways, which are involved in habitual behaviours like drinking. Several studies have noted decreased alcohol consumption among users of these medications.
Another major shift is in her fitness routine. Winfrey now finds herself working out up to six times a week, combining hiking, weight training, and treadmill sessions. She says she feels sluggish on days she doesn't exercise, a feeling that now motivates her to stay active.
A Shift in Mindset and a Warning on Long-Term Use
Perhaps the most profound change is psychological. Winfrey stated the medication helped transform her mindset about food and her body. She no longer blames herself or feels the need to punish her body for weight gain. The result is feeling healthier and more energetic than before.
However, her experience also offers a note of caution. Winfrey acknowledged that after briefly stopping the medication, she regained some of the lost weight. This reinforced her view that for many, GLP-1 drugs might be a long-term solution rather than a quick fix.
Her journey follows decades of highly publicized struggles with weight, involving restrictive diets and extreme calorie cuts. Her highest recorded weight was 237 pounds in 1992. While she has mentioned a goal weight of 160 pounds, her current weight remains undisclosed.
Beyond Willpower: A Message on Obesity
Winfrey hopes her story helps reframe the conversation around obesity. She emphasizes that it is not merely a lack of willpower, especially for individuals with genetic predispositions. Her message is one of seeking accurate information and making empowered, informed choices—whether that includes pharmaceutical aids or not.
By sharing her personal results and the unexpected lifestyle shifts, Winfrey adds a powerful, relatable voice to the global discussion on modern weight management solutions.
