Oprah Winfrey recently made headlines when she announced her departure from the WeightWatchers board after almost a decade of service. During an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Oprah revealed that her decision to step down was motivated by her upcoming special about prescription weight loss medications. The special titled “An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution” is set to air on ABC on March 18. Oprah expressed concerns about a potential conflict of interest due to WeightWatchers’ involvement in administering weight loss drugs, prompting her to resign from the board.
In her conversation with Jimmy Kimmel, Oprah emphasized the importance of being able to freely discuss topics in her special without the appearance of a conflict of interest. She mentioned that WeightWatchers had expanded its business to include weight health management along with the distribution of drug medications for weight. Oprah’s decision to donate her shares in the company to the National Museum of African American History and Culture was a strategic move to avoid any accusations of profiting from the promotion of weight loss medications.
Oprah’s revelation about using an unnamed weight-loss drug to maintain her weight loss sparked controversy and backlash. Despite her previous stance on medications like Ozempic as an “easy way out”, Oprah defended her choice by explaining that her doctor had advised her that obesity is a disease, making weight management a lifelong challenge. She compared the struggle with weight loss to holding one’s breath underwater, stating that the inevitability of “rising” or regaining weight led her to explore medical interventions.
In an interview with People, Oprah described the use of weight loss medication as a gift and a tool for managing weight without the constant cycle of losing and gaining. She expressed relief and redemption in having access to medically approved prescriptions for weight management. Oprah emphasized that she no longer wanted to be subjected to shaming from others or herself, and saw the medication as a legitimate strategy for maintaining her health and weight goals.
While Oprah’s departure from the WeightWatchers board and her admission of using weight loss medication may have stirred controversy, it also highlights the complexities of weight management and the stigma associated with seeking medical help for obesity. Oprah’s openness about her struggles and choices serves as a reminder that each individual’s journey to health and wellness is unique, and that judgment and shame have no place in the pursuit of a balanced and sustainable lifestyle.
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