Tennis star Serena Williams recently shared why she turned to GLP-1 drugs for weight loss after becoming a mother. Even with years of intense training and strict workouts, she struggled to regain her pre-pregnancy body after her second daughter was born in 2023.
In an interview with Vogue, she said, “I had been the ultimate super-athlete, always in competition and being super-healthy my entire life, but I just could never get back to where I needed to be.”
Serena added, “My whole life is being in the gym, working out, running, training, HIIT training, dancing, every single thing you can think of. I would always get to a certain point on the scale, but I could never get below that. That’s when I decided that it was time to try something different and got on the GLP-1 with Ro.”
Serena Williams Weight Loss: What Are GLP-1 Drugs?
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) drugs were originally made for people with type 2 diabetes. They work by mimicking a natural hormone that controls blood sugar and appetite. This helps people feel full faster, eat less, and reduce cravings.
Serena started taking a GLP-1 drug called Zepbound through the telehealth company Ro, where she now collaborates. Interestingly, her husband Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, is an investor and board member at the company.
These drugs are changing the way people approach weight loss. For years, intense workouts and strict diets were seen as the only way to stay fit. Serena’s story shows that even world-class athletes may need medical support to reach their goals.
Why Exercise And Diet Alone May Not Be Enough For Weight Loss
As reported by India Today, Dr. Manoj Agarwal (Endocrinologist at Shalby Hospital SG, Ahmedabad) says, “Sometimes our own body works against us. Hunger hormones, slow metabolism, family history – all play a role.”
GLP-1 drugs help by controlling appetite and balancing hormones, but they don’t replace healthy habits. He adds, “Lifestyle is still the backbone. But for some people, especially those struggling despite their best efforts, GLP-1 drugs can change the game.”
These drugs can have side effects, like nausea, vomiting, or digestive discomfort, especially in the early days. Dr. Agarwal warns, “Anyone with a family history of certain neuroendocrine cancers should avoid these drugs. That’s why medical supervision is non-negotiable.”
Changing How We See Weight And Obesity
Serena Williams’ use of GLP-1 drugs may also help reduce stigma around obesity. Dr. Agarwal says, “Obesity is not a moral failure; it is a disease.” With proper diet, exercise, and medical guidance, GLP-1 medicines offer a safe way to manage weight. They remind us that weight loss is not just about willpower but also biology.
When GLP-1 is suitable: Type 2 diabetes, obesity, or weight management under medical supervision.
When it may be wrong: Without medical guidance or for people with certain health conditions.
