Oprah Winfrey makes surprising statements about obesity

Oprah Winfrey has opened up about her decades-long weight challenges, describing how her understanding of obesity shifted

By Zahra Shamil December 30, 2025
Oprah Winfrey makes surprising statements about obesity
Oprah Winfrey makes surprising statements about obesity

Oprah Winfrey is candidly discussing her long-running struggles with obesity and how her relationship with her health has evolved, revealing that new weight-loss medications have played a role in her healthier lifestyle. 

In a new interview with People, Winfrey reflects on her past challenges with weight, her shifting mindset and her current focus on strength and well-being.

Winfrey, who co-wrote a book on obesity, described for the first time publically what life has been like since incorporating GLP-1 class medications, a type of drug that includes treatments such as Ozempic and Wegovy that suppress appetite and help regulate appetite and metabolism. 

According to the outlet, she called her current phase of life one in which she feels “stronger” and more in control than ever.

In the interview, she acknowledged the emotional toll her weight journey has taken over decades, including coping with public scrutiny and stigma. She explained that understanding obesity as a chronic medical condition, rather than a lack of willpower, was a critical turning point in her approach. 

Moreover, Winfrey said these medications have helped manage what she described as persistent food cravings and have been one tool among many in her broader health plan.

Winfrey’s openness contributes to a wider conversation about obesity, health and the role of emerging treatments. 

Experts emphasize that while GLP-1s can be effective, they are not standalone solutions and should be paired with lifestyle changes like balanced nutrition and exercise for lasting benefits.