Kathy Bates Reveals Weight Loss Journey: More Effort Required Than Just Ozempic

Acclaimed actress Kathy Bates, recognized for her performances in films like Misery and series such as Matlock, has candidly shared her journey of achieving a remarkable 100-pound weight reduction. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, the 76-year-old star clarified that claims about her diabetes medication, Ozempic, being the sole reason for her transformation are misleading, stressing the importance of her extensive lifestyle modifications alongside medication use.

“There’s been a lot of speculation that this weight loss was solely due to Ozempic,”Bates explained to the publication. “I need to convey to everyone that this has required a tremendous amount of effort, particularly during the pandemic. It can be extremely challenging to acknowledge when you’ve had enough.”

Over the span of seven years, Bates successfully lost 80 pounds by making significant alterations to her diet and lifestyle. Only after that did she turn to Ozempic, which contributed to an additional 20 pounds of weight loss.

Kathy Bates adopts a healthier lifestyle to manage type 2 diabetes

The turning point in Kathy Bates’ weight loss story began with her type 2 diabetes diagnosis in 2017. This life-changing event, coupled with her family’s history with the illness, prompted her to reevaluate her health.

“I turned to food out of fear and as a way to rebel against my self-esteem,”Bates reflected.

Her father’s battle with diabetes, which included a leg amputation, as well as her sister’s ongoing fight with the disease, fueled her decision to make a change.

“It was terrifying. It straightened me out,”she stated.

Motivated to regain control over her health, Bates implemented several lifestyle changes, heavily influenced by advice from her niece, encouraging her to heed her body’s cues.

“We often sigh involuntarily when we’re satisfied,”Bates shared. “That’s when I decided to push my plate away.”

This mindful approach to eating, along with eliminating late-night snacks, played a crucial role in her weight loss success.

Prior to embracing her new habits, Bates acknowledged that her diet was far from health-conscious.

“I used to have poor dietary choices: burgers, sodas, and pizza,”she admitted.

In addition to being more mindful, she adopted a rule of not eating past 8 p.m., which helped her maintain focus on her goals. Nevertheless, she allows herself the occasional indulgence.

“We’ve had food trucks at Paramount to show appreciation to the crew, and just yesterday, I had Pink’s Hot Dogs,”she remarked. “Oh my goodness, it had been ages since I enjoyed a hot dog. I’ll just get back on track today.”

With Matlock’s first season complete, Kathy Bates is now focused on sustaining her achievements, particularly through regular exercise.

“That’s something I’m concerned about, as I won’t be on set sprinting around anymore,”she noted.

Although she has a treadmill at home and is contemplating Pilates, she remains reluctant to enlist the help of a personal trainer.

“I’m not keen on someone hovering over me,”Bates expressed.

Besides the visible weight loss, Kathy Bates’ transformation has also alleviated symptoms of lymphedema, a condition characterized by fluid retention and swelling. She was diagnosed with lymphedema in 2012 after undergoing a double mastectomy as part of her breast cancer treatment.

“This change has been immensely beneficial,”she disclosed.

“I consider myself lucky that I don’t need to wear compression sleeves every day. It’s such a joy to pull on a jacket and have it fit,”she said, highlighting how her weight reduction has positively influenced her condition.

By sharing her experiences, Bates aims to motivate others to take charge of their health.

“That’s what Misery did for me. It provided a recognizable face and a platform to assist in the real world,”she remarked, reflecting on the enduring influence of her iconic role.

Kathy Bates is savoring this exciting chapter in her life, which is highlighted by her triumphant return to television in Matlock.