Oprah said WHAT about Ozempic?
Oprah Winfrey gets real about weight loss drugs for biological obesity. But when it is about lifestyle, what's society's role on this matter? Why isn't anyone talking about this?
I recently tuned in to watch the An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution, currently available for streaming on Hulu, and let me tell you, it got me thinking. One thing that struck me is how obesity is now labeled as a disease, albeit not in every case. It hit close to home when the special featured testimonials from women of all ages and backgrounds, sharing their struggles with food. Those voices in their heads, constantly urging them to eat—believe me, I know those voices all too well. You see, a few years back, I found myself battling the same demons.
Could these voices be anxiety-related issues? Because we know that anxiety and stress can also cause elevated levels of cortisol, resulting in frequent hunger.
What really irks me is the disconnect between pharmaceutical companies finally acknowledging obesity as a disease and insurance companies refusing to cover the costly medications. It feels like a slap in the face to those of us desperately seeking help. During the show, Oprah bluntly embraced a fresh mantra: it's not about willpower, not blaming ourselves for the rush of eating, but rather understanding the science behind obesity. And this is where weight-loss drugs like Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Zepbound come into play. So, shouldn't insurance companies cover these medications?
From Size 0 to Size 8 in No Time — This happened to Me, Paty Sesma
Let me share my story. I used to be the skinny, awkward one among my friends, always feeling inadequate compared to their developed bodies. I was even bullied for being too thin. And later, I moved to the USA, and everything changed. My metabolism went haywire, and the pounds piled on uncontrollably. I had midnight cereal cravings pretty often, and before I knew it, I had gained nearly 50 pounds in less than a decade. I never anticipated such a drastic change, especially at 35 when I was still fit and healthy.
Does American Culture Shape our Weight Struggles?
Fast-food joints like McDonald's, Taco Bell, Burger King, Popeyes, Starbucks, and others are everywhere, tempting us with their tasty but unhealthy food. Their bright logo colors have a psychological effect on our brains, making us hungry right away. And the worst part? You don't even have to leave home for this effect. When we watch TV in the comfort of our homes, we're bombarded with ads for pizza, burgers, fries, chips, soda, ice cream, coffee, etc. It feels like America wants us to eat this stuff all the time, inevitably leading to weight gain. Could it be because drug companies will make money by selling expensive drug solutions? Have you noticed how this cycle affects us, and it's not good?
This prevalence continues to be a significant public health concern, with obesity contributing to various chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers and even depression. As the availability and marketing of fast food remain pervasive in our culture, the challenges associated with obesity will persist, underscoring the urgent need to address this issue regardless of the cost.
Why aren't fast food ads including side effects just like medication ads do?
Why isn't anyone addressing this matter? Before considering obesity a disease, let's talk about the root of the problems: Why aren't fast food ads including side effects just like medication ads do?
How will Youth be Shaped in this Ozempic-Dominated Society?
The endorsement of Ozempic and similar drugs by influential figures like Oprah Winfrey has the potential to shape the youth culture in America significantly, particularly in cases where obesity is not primarily a genetic or biological issue, but rather a lifestyle matter.
With their vast reach and influence, celebrities like Oprah can inadvertently promote the idea that these medications are a quick-fix solution to weight-related issues. This endorsement could perpetuate a mindset among the youth that turning to pharmaceuticals is the easiest way to address health concerns, rather than focusing on holistic lifestyle changes.
Moreover, if the message surrounding these drugs is not balanced with education about healthy eating habits and regular exercise, it could contribute to a society where reliance on medication for weight management becomes the norm, potentially leading to long-term health consequences. As such, it's crucial for public figures endorsing such drugs to emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach to health and wellness, particularly when addressing lifestyle-related obesity.
An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution airs March 18 on ABC and the next day on Hulu.
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