Kathy Bates, the renowned actress known for her roles in Matlock and American Horror Story, has recently opened up about her remarkable weight loss journey, revealing that she has shed a total of 100 pounds. In an interview with People published on October 9, 2024, Bates shared her experiences and the hard work that went into her transformation.
Weight Loss Journey
At 76 years old, Bates emphasized that her weight loss was not solely due to the use of Ozempic, a popular weight loss medication. While she did lose 20 pounds with the help of the drug, the actress initially lost 80 pounds through significant changes in her diet and exercise habits over the past seven years. She stated, “There’s been a lot of talk that I just was able to do this because of Ozempic. But I have to impress upon people out there that this was hard work for me, especially during the pandemic. It’s very hard to say you’ve had enough.”
Motivation for Change
Bates began her journey toward healthier living in 2017, following her diagnosis of Type II diabetes. She recounted the moment that triggered her decision to take control of her health. “I ate because I was afraid, and I ate because it was a F-U to my self-esteem,” she explained. Bates recognized the serious implications of diabetes, especially given her family’s history with the disease. Her father’s leg amputation and her sister’s ongoing struggles with diabetes motivated her to make necessary changes, stating, “It terrified me. It scared me straight.”
Improvements in Health
In addition to her weight loss, Bates has also experienced positive changes in her lymphedema symptoms, a condition that causes swelling in the limbs, which she was diagnosed with in 2012. She noted, “It’s been a tremendous benefit for me. I’m lucky that I don’t have to wear my compression sleeves every day. It’s such a thrill to be able to put my arm into a jacket and it fits.”
Enhanced Performance as an Actress
Bates mentioned that the changes she has made have also positively impacted her career. As she prepares for her role in Matlock, she expressed her newfound physical capabilities. “Physically, I’m capable of doing this show,” she said. “I don’t have to sit down. I can stand up all day long and walk and move and breathe and do so many things that I couldn’t before.”
Through her candid reflections, Kathy Bates not only shares her journey of personal transformation but also inspires others to take charge of their health through determination and lifestyle changes.
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