Al Roker has long been an advocate for health and wellness, openly sharing his own experiences with weight loss and the challenges that come with it. 

At 70 years old, the Today co-host continues to inspire many with his dedication to a healthier lifestyle. 

Recently, while promoting his new cookbook, Al Roker’s Recipes to Live By: 

Easy, Memory-Making Family Dishes for Every Occasion, he opened up about his perspective on weight loss and the role of medication in achieving health goals.

A Personal Journey with Weight Loss

Roker’s weight loss journey has been widely documented over the years. In 2002, he underwent gastric bypass surgery after reaching 340 pounds. 

Since then, he has maintained a commitment to healthier habits, sharing both his victories and struggles with fans. Marking the 20th anniversary of his surgery in 2022, Roker reflected on how far he had come, posting a video of himself holding up his old size 54 jeans. “It’s still a struggle, but I’m never going back,” he stated, reinforcing his determination to maintain a healthier lifestyle.

Beyond surgical intervention, Roker has emphasized the importance of regular exercise and dietary adjustments. He has credited a combination of walking and a low-carb diet with helping him shed 45 pounds in just a few months. By keeping his daily carbohydrate intake to around 100 grams and incorporating movement into his routine, he has managed to maintain his weight and improve his overall health.

No Judgment for Those Who Choose Medication

While Roker has personally found success through surgery and lifestyle changes, he recognizes that every person’s path is different. In a recent interview, he discussed the growing popularity of weight loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. Rather than dismissing these options, he voiced support for those who choose to use them.

“I’m not going to judge anybody,” Roker said. “Unlike any other addiction or dependence, you have to eat to survive. That makes it incredibly difficult for some people.” Acknowledging that weight loss is deeply personal, he added, “If this is what works for them, then good for them. As long as it’s safe and effective, who are we to say, ‘Oh, don’t do that’?”

Roker’s acceptance of medical interventions for weight loss is a refreshing stance in a world where people often face scrutiny for their choices. He reinforced the idea that no one should be shamed for the path they take to better their health.

Encouraging Others to Find Their Own Path

Rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all solution, Roker encourages people to find what works best for them. He understands that weight loss comes with ups and downs, saying, “It’s tough, and everybody has to figure out their own path. If weight loss medication is what helps someone lead a healthier, more active lifestyle, that’s great.”

His comments align with his previous stance on weight loss stigma. Earlier in 2024, he defended fellow television personality Kelly Clarkson when she faced criticism for reportedly using weight loss medication. “Back off,” Roker stated, emphasizing that no one should be judged for the decisions they make regarding their health.

Roker also previously addressed the issue when Oprah Winfrey hosted a special discussing the weight loss medication debate. During a segment on Today, he acknowledged the complexities of weight management and urged people to avoid shaming others. “Everybody’s struggling with it, and we’re still trying to figure it out,” he said. “But no shame, no game. Just stay within your lane and don’t give anybody a hard time.”

A Continued Commitment to Health and Wellness

Despite his own success with weight loss, Roker remains open about the daily challenges he faces in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He admits to having setbacks but remains committed to never returning to his previous habits. His approach to health is one of balance—encouraging exercise, mindful eating, and self-compassion.

His latest cookbook reflects this philosophy, offering recipes that bring families together while keeping health in mind. Although he still enjoys indulgences from time to time, Roker focuses on moderation rather than restriction, a mindset that has helped him sustain his weight loss over the years.

As he continues his journey, Roker hopes that his openness will inspire others to take control of their health in whatever way works best for them. Whether through diet, exercise, surgery, or medication, his message is clear: there is no single right way to achieve weight loss. Instead of judging, he encourages everyone to support one another in their individual health journeys.

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