Josh Gad, the well-known actor from “Frozen,” recently opened up about his experience with GLP-1 medications for weight loss during an episode of the “Armchair Expert” podcast hosted by Dax Shepard and Monica Padman. This marks Gad’s first public discussion regarding his journey with these drugs, which have gained popularity for their effectiveness in aiding weight loss.
Understanding GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 agonist medications, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, work by mimicking hormones that signal fullness, thereby reducing appetite. For Gad, the initial effects were promising. “It has suppressed, in a great way, that noise,” he explained, indicating a significant reduction in his cravings. “When I wake up, I feel hunger pains, and so much of that is psychological. What this does is it takes away that signal. It is a miracle drug.”
A Bumpy Journey
Despite his initial success in losing 40 pounds, Gad faced complications that forced him to change medications. He experienced diverticulitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of pouches in the large intestine. “I was on a different drug that caused me diverticulitis,” he shared, expressing his disappointment at having to switch to a different GLP-1 medication. “It was working incredibly for me, and I had to switch.” This shift has led to a new set of challenges as he navigates the side effects and efficacy of the alternative treatment.
What is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. While it’s uncertain whether Gad experienced a severe case, the condition can sometimes require hospitalization and treatment with antibiotics. Research into the potential link between GLP-1 medications and diverticulitis is ongoing, but some known side effects of these drugs include nausea, stomach pain, and gastrointestinal issues.
The Psychological Impact
Gad also touched on the psychological aspects of using GLP-1 medications. He expressed a sense of guilt, questioning whether he was “cheating” himself by relying on medication for weight loss. “Sometimes I feel like I’m cheating myself by doing this,” he admitted, reflecting on how societal perceptions of weight and health add complexity to his journey.
Career Concerns
Gad pondered the implications of his weight loss on his career, revealing his long-standing identity as “the funny fat guy.” He wondered aloud, “Can I be the funny skinny guy? Can I be the hot leading man?” These thoughts illustrate the internal conflict many actors face regarding typecasting and public perception.
Prioritizing Family
Ultimately, Gad emphasized that his primary motivation for weight loss is to be present for his children. “My primary goal is, I want to be there for my kids,” he stated, underscoring that personal health takes precedence over external judgments. His candid reflections on his experiences with GLP-1 medications provide insight into the broader conversation surrounding weight loss, health, and self-acceptance.
