Kathy Bates has revealed that her recent slim physique was not solely a result of the diabetes drug Ozempic, as many people have speculated. The “Matlock” star stated that she has lost a total of 100 pounds over the course of seven years, with 80 pounds initially shed through changes in her diet and lifestyle after being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2017. She credits Ozempic with aiding in the loss of the final 20 pounds. Bates emphasized that her weight loss journey required considerable effort, particularly during the challenges of the pandemic, and she urged others to recognize the hard work involved in achieving significant weight loss.
Following her Type 2 diabetes diagnosis seven years ago, Bates made a conscious decision to transform her relationship with food. She admitted to using food as a coping mechanism and a way to boost her self-esteem in the past. Despite having family members also diagnosed with diabetes, it was her father’s leg amputation and sister’s serious health issues that truly motivated Bates to take control of her own health. By listening to her body’s signals and stopping eating once full, Bates began to set the foundation for her weight loss journey. She also made adjustments to her diet, eliminating unhealthy foods like burgers, Cokes, and pizza, and limiting her eating window to before 8 p.m.
Aside from dietary changes, Bates has also prioritized exercise in her weight loss journey. While she is concerned about maintaining her routine outside of the structured environment of filming, she plans to continue working out on her treadmill at home and possibly incorporating Pilates into her regimen. Despite offers for professional trainers, Bates prefers to handle her exercise routine independently. Recognizing the importance of sustaining her progress, she remains dedicated to her health and fitness goals. The weight loss has brought health benefits as well, as Bates shared that she no longer needs to wear compression sleeves daily for her lymphedema, a condition that she developed following cancer treatments.
Bates reflected on her weight loss journey in an interview, recounting her initial progress of losing 60 pounds. She credited her success to cultivating mindfulness around her eating habits, paying attention to signals of fullness such as involuntary sighs, and knowing when to stop eating. This level of awareness and patience, according to Bates, was crucial in her journey towards better health. She emphasized the importance of determination over willpower in achieving lasting change and highlighted the significance of being attentive to one’s body’s cues during meals. Bates’ commitment to sustainable, long-term lifestyle changes has been instrumental in her weight loss success and ongoing efforts to prioritize her health and well-being.
In addition to the physical benefits of her weight loss, Bates also noted the positive impact on her professional life as an actor. Being able to stand, move, and breathe more easily has enhanced her ability to meet the demands of filming a television series. Bates expressed gratitude for the newfound capabilities that her weight loss has afforded her, allowing her to fully engage in her work without limitations. The transformation in her physical health has not only improved her overall well-being but also bolstered her confidence and performance as an actor. Bates’ journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, self-awareness, and dedication in achieving personal health and fitness goals, emphasizing the importance of making sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term success.
