Chrissy Metz, known for her role in "This Is Us," has publicly shared her decision to use a GLP-1 medication for weight management, a move she describes as a significant shift after years of skepticism towards such drugs.
Metz, 45, explained in an appearance on "The Today Show" that her perspective evolved as she entered perimenopause and considered her personal health and her family's history with obesity. "I was very skeptical about GLP-1s for years," she stated, noting that a friend's detailed explanation prompted her to reconsider.
Following her father's health complications, Metz felt compelled to proactively address her own well-being. "Maybe I should try and get ahead of it," she recalled thinking, deciding that the medication could be beneficial. Since starting the drug, she has reported improvements in her energy levels and overall health, emphasizing that her focus is on "longevity."
Despite initial apprehension, Metz consulted with her doctor and medical team, who affirmed that the medication could be advantageous for her. She admitted to being "nervous" and "scared" to begin the treatment.
Metz stressed that the use of GLP-1 medication is part of a broader lifestyle change, not a quick fix. "It's not just, 'Oh, I'm going to take a medication,' because it's not the easy way out," she said. "It's good for me because I'm really putting myself first. It's something I've always wanted to do, but I have to really put into practice now." Her regimen now includes strength training and regular exercise, marking a dedicated effort to prioritize her health. She described the experience as a "really wonderful journey."
The actress's public discussion about her weight and health continues a narrative that began during her time on "This Is Us," where her character Kate Pearson's storyline frequently involved struggles with weight and body image. In previous interviews, Metz has spoken about societal attitudes towards weight and has candidly discussed her personal history with food and weight issues, stemming from childhood experiences.
She has shared accounts of emotional and physical abuse from her stepfather, who controlled her food intake during her upbringing. Metz believes there is now greater public awareness and open conversation surrounding "food, food issues, food behavior" compared to her younger years, and she is actively working towards healing from these past experiences.