Weight loss and health are common topics of discussion, especially in the public eye. Celebrities and influencers often share their experiences, contributing to a broader conversation around body image, health practices, and the use of medications like Ozempic. This article explores the weight loss and health journeys of Ben Soffer and Claudia Oshry, examining their approaches, challenges, and perspectives.
Claudia Oshry's Experience with Ozempic and Body Image
Claudia Oshry, an internet comedian and influencer, has openly discussed her weight loss journey and her experience with Ozempic, a semaglutide medication. She began taking Ozempic in September 2022 but waited a year before sharing her experience with her followers. Her decision to disclose her Ozempic use stemmed from a desire to de-stigmatize the medication.
Oshry noted the stigma surrounding weight loss drugs, especially among influencers and podcasters, and felt that much of the discussion was "fat-phobic" and created a sense of shame. She wanted to share her story to counter these negative perceptions. She emphasized that genetics play a significant role in obesity and that simply eating less isn't always a solution.
Oshry reflected on how her style has evolved since her weight loss. She expressed that she now feels more "liberated" to wear arm-baring outfits. She candidly shared that being a "fat woman" can be incredibly challenging. One of her primary motivations for losing weight was to improve her overall health and increase her chances of having children with her husband, Ben Soffer.
Looking back at old photos, Oshry admitted to having "very mixed emotions." She explained that she was initially "a little embarrassed" about using Ozempic but eventually came to terms with it. She acknowledged the societal pressure and internal questions like, "Other people can do it without, why can’t I?" She clarified that she wasn't suggesting that everyone should use Ozempic, but rather sharing what was working for her at the time.
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Oshry also expressed concerns about the long-term implications of using Ozempic, particularly regarding future pregnancies. She stated, "One day, I will have children. I will not be able to do this." Despite these concerns, she felt comfortable sharing her journey because it was her current reality.
Ben Soffer's Support and Shared Health Goals
Ben Soffer, Claudia Oshry's husband, has been a supportive partner throughout her health journey. The couple, who married in 2017, are focused on their health and wellness goals as they await the arrival of their first child. They have partnered with Premier Protein, highlighting their shared interest in health-conscious choices.
Soffer has been a fan of Premier Protein products for years. Oshry began her own health journey in 2023, she "relied heavily on protein shakes and snacks to keep me full and focused throughout the day,". She found Premier Protein to be the best tasting and most "calorically friendly" option. The couple enjoys incorporating Premier Protein Indulgence shakes into their diet, particularly as a guilt-free dessert option. They even make protein ice cream using the Chocolate Covered Strawberry flavor.
Despite their busy schedules, Oshry and Soffer prioritize spending time together. They are "pretty strict about having dinner together every night," viewing it as a way to stay connected. They also enjoy bouncing ideas off each other and pushing each other to think creatively, particularly since they are both social media stars.
Oshry has also shared her pregnancy cravings, noting her newfound obsession with fresh fruit. As a self-proclaimed picky eater, she is trying to embrace healthier options during this time.
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Craig Conover's Fitness Journey and Mental Health
Another public figure who has openly discussed his health and fitness journey is Craig Conover, a cast member on Southern Charm. In November 2023, Conover shared his intense workout routine on Instagram, showcasing his dedication to fitness.
Conover spoke about his health journey on the Good Guys podcast in January 2024. He revealed that he had stopped drinking liquor two years prior and had significantly cut back on alcohol consumption a year ago. As a result, he lost 20 pounds after gaining "like 30 pounds" previously.
Conover emphasized the transformative impact of his health journey, noting that it "really changes your whole life." He also mentioned that he started waking up earlier as a result of his improved health habits.
In 2022, Conover shared with People that he was "more fit" than he had been "in years." He expressed his newfound confidence in taking his shirt off on the show. He attributed his success to making a conscious decision to return to the gym, despite initial challenges.
Conover also highlighted the positive impact of exercise on his mental health. He noted that missing the gym for a few days in a row can lead to feelings of depression. He emphasized that regular exercise helps him "stay on track" and maintain a positive mental state.
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Conover touched on his struggles with finding balance, admitting that he tends to be either fully engaged or not engaged at all. He acknowledged the difficulty in finding a middle ground but remains committed to maintaining momentum in a positive direction.
In December 2023, Conover shared on Instagram that he sometimes experiences "little bouts of depression." He has learned to combat these feelings by recognizing the positive impact of going to the gym. He acknowledged the difficulty of getting up and going to the gym some days, but ultimately prioritizes it because of how it makes him feel.
Celebrities and GLP-1 Medications: A Broader Perspective
The experiences of Oshry and Conover are part of a larger trend of celebrities and public figures sharing their experiences with weight loss and health interventions, including GLP-1 medications like Ozempic. Several well-known individuals have spoken openly about their use of these drugs, helping to reduce the stigma and promote more open conversations about weight management.
Serena Williams revealed that she lost 31 pounds after having her second child by using the GLP-1 drug Zepbound. She emphasized that it was part of an overall plan that included a healthy diet and exercise. Oprah Winfrey hosted a special on ABC titled An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame, and the Weight Loss Revolution, in which she discussed GLP-1 medications and the stigma surrounding their use. She hoped to encourage more open and judgment-free conversations about weight loss.
Rebel Wilson shared that she used Ozempic for a period of time to maintain her weight loss. Whoopi Goldberg revealed that she took Mounjaro to lose a significant amount of weight. Charles Barkley said he lost around 60 pounds by taking Mounjaro, in addition to maintaining a healthy diet and exercise. Kathy Bates has lost 100 pounds over the past seven years, with the final 20 pounds achieved through Ozempic.
Meghan Trainor and her husband, Daryl Sabara, took the lowest dose of Mounjaro, combined with exercise and balanced meals. Billie Jean King spoke about her decision to try a GLP-1 to help quiet the food noise in her mind. Jim Gaffigan shared that he tried Mounjaro and lost 50 pounds, crediting the drug for helping him feel better.
Other celebrities, such as Chelsea Handler and Amy Schumer, have also discussed their experiences with Ozempic, with varying degrees of success and comfort. Their stories highlight the complexities and individual nature of weight loss journeys and the use of GLP-1 medications.