Kelly Clarkson, the celebrated singer and talk show host, has openly discussed her weight loss journey, offering insights into the lifestyle changes she’s embraced. Her transformation has sparked considerable interest, with many wanting to understand “How Did Kelly Clarkson Lose Weight?” Clarkson’s approach involves a combination of increased physical activity, dietary adjustments with a focus on protein, and the use of medication to support her body’s metabolic processes.
Clarkson’s move to New York City marked a significant shift in her daily routine, contributing to her weight management efforts. Living in a bustling city inherently encourages a more active lifestyle. She mentioned in interviews that her day-to-day life in New York is far more dynamic, which has positively impacted her weight loss. Concurrently, she adopted a high-protein diet, a strategy known to promote satiety and aid in weight loss. This dietary shift helps individuals feel fuller for longer, naturally reducing overall calorie intake.
In May 2024, Clarkson made headlines when she revealed her use of a weight loss medication. Initially hesitant due to her existing thyroid issues, she ultimately decided to incorporate medication into her weight management plan. She shared this information candidly on her talk show, addressing the growing conversation around weight loss aids.
Understanding Kelly Clarkson’s Weight Loss Medication
While Kelly Clarkson confirmed taking medication to assist with weight loss, she clarified that it is not Ozempic. During a conversation on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” with Whoopi Goldberg, who has also spoken about using Mounjaro, another weight loss drug, Clarkson addressed the rumors.
Clarkson explained that her decision to use medication was driven by concerning blood work results. Despite initial reservations due to her thyroid problems, her doctor’s persistence and her own health indicators led her to reconsider. She emphasized that the medication she uses is designed to help her body process sugar more effectively, addressing a specific metabolic challenge she faces.
“Everyone thinks it’s Ozempic — it’s not. It’s something else,” she told Goldberg, highlighting that her medication is targeted at aiding sugar breakdown, a function her body wasn’t performing optimally. Clarkson also shared a moment of self-awareness when seeing herself on camera, prompting her to address her weight gain. She mentioned reaching 203 pounds at 5’3″, noting that despite the weight gain, she remained happy and confident.
Following her disclosure about using weight loss medication, Clarkson faced some public criticism. Whoopi Goldberg defended Clarkson on “The View,” pointing out the unfair scrutiny celebrities often face regarding their weight. Goldberg highlighted that many individuals benefit from weight loss medications for various health reasons, and in Clarkson’s case, it was part of a broader health strategy that included lifestyle changes like walking. Goldberg underscored the hypocrisy of public opinion, noting that Clarkson is judged regardless of her weight.
Lifestyle Changes Supporting Clarkson’s Health and Weight Loss
Beyond medication, Kelly Clarkson has implemented significant lifestyle adjustments to support her long-term health goals. Moving to New York City in January 2024 played a crucial role in increasing her physical activity. In an interview with People, Clarkson attributed her weight loss partly to her more active city life and a renewed focus on wellness, emphasizing the increased walking she does daily. While she didn’t detail a gym routine, she acknowledged that “Walking in the city is quite the workout.”
Relocating her talk show from Los Angeles to New York in 2023 was a deliberate choice for Clarkson, seeking a fresh start and improved mental well-being. She expressed unhappiness in Los Angeles, citing California’s negative impact on her mental health. In New York, she incorporated other wellness practices, including infrared saunas and cold plunges, embracing trends that promote relaxation and recovery.
Regarding her diet, Clarkson prioritizes a balanced and healthy approach, avoiding extreme measures. She told People that she focuses on a “healthy mix,” emphasizing that listening to her doctor’s advice has been key. She highlighted the importance of a protein-rich diet, aligning with her Texan preference for meat. “90% of the time I’m really good at it because a protein diet is good for me anyway.” However, she also allows for indulgences, mentioning enjoying frozen yogurt with her daughter as a joyful treat.
Kelly Clarkson’s History with Thyroid Issues and Health
Kelly Clarkson has been vocal about her thyroid and autoimmune issues, which have influenced her approach to weight management over the years. In 2018, she discussed losing approximately 37 pounds by addressing her thyroid condition through dietary changes. At that time, her focus was less on weight loss for aesthetic reasons and more about managing her health.
In 2018, Clarkson adopted a lectin-free diet to manage an autoimmune disease and thyroid issues. This diet involved eliminating lectins, proteins found in foods like legumes, beans, whole grains, dairy, and certain vegetables. She credited this dietary change with improving her health markers without engaging in workouts. It’s important to note that significant dietary changes should be undertaken with guidance from a health professional.
More recently, in January 2024, Clarkson revealed that she was prediabetic. This diagnosis wasn’t entirely unexpected, as she acknowledged being slightly overweight. Two years prior to this revelation, she had been informed she was on the borderline of prediabetes. Prediabetes indicates higher-than-normal blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, are crucial in managing and potentially reversing prediabetes.
Navigating Body Image and Weight Commentary
Throughout her career, Kelly Clarkson has faced considerable public commentary regarding her body size. In a 2020 interview with Glamour UK, she shared that being thin didn’t necessarily equate to greater confidence. Interestingly, she landed her coaching role on “The Voice” after gaining weight, suggesting that her professional success wasn’t tied to her physique.
Clarkson emphasized that NBC valued her personality and genuine connection with people when hiring her for “The Voice,” highlighting that her “sex appeal or my look aesthetically” were not primary factors. She believes it’s important for artists to shift societal perspectives towards appreciating individuals for their talent and personality rather than solely their appearance.
In November 2023, during “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” Clarkson and Jenna Bush Hager connected over shared experiences with weight struggles. During a conversation with Jenna and Barbara Pierce Bush, Clarkson humorously pointed out the unflattering nature of drop-waist dresses for girls with curves, referencing a childhood photo of the Bush twins. The exchange highlighted a relatable aspect of body image and the pressures women face regarding weight and appearance, even from a young age. Clarkson’s open and honest dialogue about her weight loss journey continues to resonate with many, emphasizing health and well-being over purely aesthetic goals.
