Kelly Clarkson, a multifaceted talent known for her powerful voice, coaching role on The Voice, and her own talk show, has consistently been in the public eye. Beyond her professional achievements, her weight has often become a topic of discussion. While Clarkson has always championed body positivity, her recent weight loss has sparked curiosity. This article explores Kelly Clarkson's weight loss journey, her approach to health, and her inspiring attitude towards body image.
Challenging the Workout Myth
Despite shedding a significant number of pounds, Kelly Clarkson has openly stated that her weight loss isn't primarily due to exercise. "I'm not working out!" she declared in an interview. She has even expressed her dislike for exercising, humorously noting, "I still hate working out. I’m sweaty, red, and not any thinner . . . people say it’s good for your heart…. but people also say red wine is good for your heart. I mean, I’m just stating facts here people. Who am I to ignore science?!”
The Plant Paradox and Autoimmune Issues
Clarkson first revealed her weight loss secret at the 2018 CMT Awards and during an interview on Today. She attributed her weight loss to The Plant Paradox by Steven R. Gundry, M.D. "I had an autoimmune disease and a thyroid problem that started in 2006," Kelly explained to Hoda Kotb. "I read this book, it's called The Plant Paradox, and it might not work for you but it worked wonders for me."
The Plant Paradox focuses on lectins, proteins found in many plants, and their potential role in inflammation. The diet involves avoiding foods high in lectins, such as legumes, beans, whole grains, dairy, and certain vegetables. Clarkson emphasized that she adopted the diet primarily to manage her autoimmune disease and thyroid issues, and the weight loss was a secondary benefit. She stated that following The Plant Paradox helped her get her "levels back up" and allowed her to discontinue her medication.
She later clarified that she eats "the same stuff I always have. It’s all just made w/different flours/sugars/ingredients.” She told Hoda Kotb on Today that she uses different ingredients, such as cassava flour, tapioca, or almond flour for fried chicken and non-hormone chicken. She also admitted that it is "really expensive to do.”
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Shutting Down False Rumors
Kelly Clarkson has been quick to dispel false rumors about her weight loss. When a fan asked for a "decent plan" to stick with, Kelly reiterated her success with The Plant Paradox. "I read The Plant Paradox by Dr. Gundry," she explained. "He gives you yes & no lists 2 go by & tells why you should avoid things & basically it all comes down to lectins & inflammation."
In 2019, Clarkson denied rumors that she'd been using weight-loss supplements, tweeting, "Other fake news that’s going around about me is that I’ve been taking weird pills 4 weight loss or doing weird fad diets. All of this is not true. I ain’t got time 4 all that."
Body Positivity and Self-Acceptance
Even with her changing physique, Kelly Clarkson remains a strong advocate for body positivity. "For me, it wasn't really [about] the weight," she said on Today. "For me it was that I'm not on my medicine anymore." She has openly discussed the criticism she faced regarding her size throughout her career. "I was the biggest girl in the [American Idol cast]," Kelly told Ellen DeGeneres in 2015. "And I wasn't big, but people would call me big … I've kind of always gotten that."
However, she learned to ignore the negativity and embrace herself. "This is who I am and I'm happy. Happy looks different on everyone." She emphasized the importance of focusing on one's own health and happiness, rather than seeking validation from others. "If you gauge your life on what other people think, you’re going to be in a constant state of panic trying to please everyone. People should just concentrate on their own lives and their own health and their own happiness, and whatever that looks like for you, be happy with it."
Recent Updates: New York City, Protein, and Medication
In more recent interviews, Clarkson has shared additional insights into her weight loss journey. She revealed that moving to New York City has contributed to her increased activity levels. "I was very unhappy in L.A. and had been for several years. I needed a fresh start," she shared. "Walking in the city is quite the workout." She also enjoys walking her dogs in the park, visiting museums, and other activities with her children.
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Clarkson has also incorporated more protein into her diet. “I eat a healthy mix,” she said. “I dropped weight because I’ve been listening to my doctor-a couple years I didn’t. And 90 percent of the time I’m really good at it because a protein diet is good for me anyway. I’m a Texas girl, so I like meat-sorry, vegetarians in the world!” She still allows herself treats, such as frozen yogurt with her daughter.
In May 2024, Clarkson revealed that she was taking a medication to assist in her weight loss, but did not specify which one, beyond that it is not Ozempic. She explained that she'd had concerns about using such a drug due to problems with her thyroid but eventually decided to try it because her "blood work got so bad." She clarified that the medication "aids in helping break down the sugar" because her "body doesn't do it right." She also mentioned using infrared saunas and cold plunges as part of her wellness routine.
Addressing Prediabetes and Long-Term Health
During a January 2024 episode of her talk show, Clarkson revealed she was prediabetic. She decided to change her lifestyle habits after finding out. She has spoken before about her thyroid and autoimmune issues and trying to lose weight to address them.