Brooks Nader, known for her appearances in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue and her stint on "Dancing With the Stars," has been in the public eye for several years. Her journey, along with that of her sisters, is chronicled in the docuseries "Love Thy Nader." The show delves into their careers, family dynamics, and relationships as they navigate life in New York City after leaving Louisiana. While modeling has brought Brooks fame, it has also exposed her to the harsh realities of the industry, particularly concerning body image and weight loss.
Early Career and Body Image Pressures
Brooks' career took off after winning a casting search for the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue in 2019. She appeared in the 2020, 2021, and 2022 issues, ultimately landing the cover in 2023. However, success came with the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.
In "Love Thy Nader," Brooks revealed that since moving to New York at 18, she had been told by agents that she wouldn't get certain jobs because of her measurements. She admitted to making the mistake of changing a body part after someone commented on it. This highlights the intense scrutiny models face and the impact it can have on their self-esteem.
GLP-1 Use and Intervention
The docuseries also addresses Brooks' use of GLP-1 medications, which are typically used to treat type 2 diabetes but have become popular for weight loss. In one episode, Brooks' sisters stage an intervention after becoming concerned about her excessive use of the drug. They found her nearly unconscious in the bathtub after an exercise class, and Grace Ann noted that Brooks hadn't eaten the previous night or that day.
Brooks explained that she had increased her dosage of GLP-1 because of an upcoming Maxim photo shoot where she would be "half-naked." She admitted that the symptoms of the weight loss drug had worsened, causing her to feel nauseous and tired. Her sisters expressed concern that she was overprescribed and that her reliance on the medication was dangerous.
Read also: Inspiration from Trisha and Garth
During the intervention, Brooks defended her use of GLP-1, stating that the modeling industry has specific standards and measurements that she needed to meet to secure jobs in Paris and Milan. She also pointed out that many other models were using the drug and that agencies were encouraging them to do so.
A Shift in Perspective
Despite her initial resistance, Brooks eventually recognized that she needed to make a change. She acknowledged that she had an unhealthy relationship with weight and food due to the pressures of the modeling industry. She also realized that GLP-1 was becoming a crutch and that she needed to find a healthier way to manage her weight.
In the show, Brooks mentions that she needed to grow out of the GLP-1 phase in her life. It took an intervention and being on camera for her to decide to eat healthy and workout. She believes the industry is shifting towards more honesty, acceptance, and owning who you really are.
The Sisterhood
"Love Thy Nader" also emphasizes the importance of family and sisterhood. Brooks' sisters, Grace Ann, Mary Holland, and Sarah Jane, provide support and guidance as she navigates her career and personal life. They challenge her when necessary but ultimately come from a place of love and concern.
The show also touches on other issues, such as Sarah Jane's journey to self-acceptance as a queer woman and Mary Holland's entrepreneurial pursuits. Grace Ann is also a model but wants to be known for her own work, not just for being Brooks' sister.
Read also: Inspiring Story of Tiffany Brooks
Other Celebrities and Weight Loss Drugs
Brooks Nader is not alone in her experience with weight loss drugs. Several other celebrities have spoken openly about their use of medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro, while others have vehemently denied using them.
- Rosie O'Donnell: The comedian has been on Mounjaro since late 2022 and has openly discussed her weight loss and body dysmorphia on Instagram.
- Meghan Trainor: The singer and her husband, Daryl Sabara, both started taking Monjaro, combining the shots with exercise and balanced meals.
- Kendra Wilkinson: The former Girls Next Door star tried one weight loss shot but ultimately decided it wasn't for her due to potential health risks.
- Amy Schumer: The comedian has spoken out against Ozempic, saying she felt sick and couldn't play with her son while on it.
- Caroline Stanbury: The Real Housewives of Dubai star admitted to using Ozempic to lose weight after turning 40.
- Jennifer Aydin: The Real Housewives of New Jersey star clarified that she was using Mounjaro, not Ozempic, to manage her weight.
- Raven-Symoné: The actress emphasized that certain medications are made for specific people and should be reserved for those who need them.
- Chelsea Handler: The comedian said she unknowingly took Ozempic after returning from vacation.
- Kelly Clarkson: The talk show host revealed that she lost weight by listening to her doctor and taking a medication that helps break down sugar.
- Oprah Winfrey: The media legend has spoken about using a medically approved prescription for managing weight and staying healthier.
- Jelly Roll: The musician has publicly discussed his weight loss journey, emphasizing that his success came in spite of his weight, not because of it.
- John Goodman: The actor has maintained a 200-pound weight loss through a combination of walking, exercise, and a Mediterranean diet.
Read also: Weight Loss Guide Andalusia, AL