Oprah Winfrey has made an intriguing revelation about her experience with GLP-1 weight-loss medications, sharing that she encountered a notable side effect during her treatment journey. While many individuals using popular anti-obesity drugs such as Wegovy and Zepbound report facing gastrointestinal challenges—most commonly nausea, diarrhea, and constipation—Winfrey herself did not suffer from the first two issues. Instead, her primary concern was related to constipation.
During a live discussion on January 13, with Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones from TODAY, Winfrey explained, "I never had nausea or diarrhea, but I did have the third one." She went on to describe her personal strategy for managing this side effect, which involves finding the right balance of magnesium intake and hydration. Winfrey noted the importance of drinking an ample amount of water, stating, "I have to drink a lot of water... I have to have a gallon of water a day." However, she emphasized that all this hydration must be consumed before 4 p.m., or else she faces sleepless nights due to her body's needs.
The significance of water intake cannot be understated, as it plays a critical role in softening stool and facilitating digestion, thus alleviating constipation. Additionally, magnesium citrate is effective because it helps retain water in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass, which enhances bowel regularity, as indicated by information from the National Library of Medicine.
Winfrey elaborates on her experiences with GLP-1 drugs in her new book titled "Enough: Your Health, Your Weight, and What It’s Like to Be Free," where she discusses her journey towards successful weight management. Dr. Ania Jastreboff, who co-authored the book and is an endocrinologist and associate professor at the Yale School of Medicine, commented on Winfrey's health, saying, "Oprah's kidneys are very, very happy."
Every medication comes with its own set of side effects, and it’s essential to weigh the risks against the benefits, Jastreboff added. She advised that maintaining proper hydration can significantly reduce nausea—a common complaint among GLP-1 users. Furthermore, she recommended a gradual approach to dosing: "So start low, go slow. If you're feeling nauseated, then don't increase the dose."
Additionally, she suggested practical tips such as avoiding overeating and being mindful of foods that might exacerbate discomfort. These strategies can be beneficial in minimizing side effects, helping users navigate their treatment more comfortably.
A. Pawlowski serves as a health reporter for TODAY, focusing on health-related news and features. She has previously worked as a writer, producer, and editor at CNN.
