Ozempic Didn’t Work For James Corden — He Opens Up About His Experience

In a world where celebrity diets and weight loss trends often make headlines, it’s no surprise that public figures like James Corden are opening up about their personal experiences with popular weight loss drugs.

During a candid conversation with guest Richard Osman on his podcast “This Life of Mine,” the British comedian and former host of “The Late Late Show” revealed his own trials with Ozempic, a diabetes medication often used off-label for weight loss.

Corden’s honesty sheds light on the realities of using such treatments and the mixed results they can bring, especially for those struggling with eating habits that go beyond just hunger.

Ozempic, originally approved by the FDA in 2017 for managing type 2 diabetes, has become a hot topic due to its side effect of weight loss. Although not specifically approved for weight management, the drug helps control blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin production in the pancreas.

While Wegovy, a similar drug with a higher dose of semaglutide, has been officially approved for weight loss, Ozempic is frequently prescribed off-label for the same purpose.

Despite its growing popularity, experts, including those at UC Davis Health, caution against using Ozempic for weight loss unless you have type 2 diabetes, citing potential health risks and the importance of addressing the underlying causes of weight gain.

James Corden’s Experience with Ozempic: Not What He Expected

During his podcast, Corden opened up about his short-lived experience with Ozempic, revealing that the results were far from what he had hoped. “I tried Ozempic, and it won’t be surprising to you when you look at me now that it didn’t really work,” he shared with his signature humor.

He explained that while the injections did suppress his appetite, it quickly became clear that hunger wasn’t the root cause of his eating habits. “What I realized was, I was like, ‘Oh no, nothing about my eating has anything to do with being hungry,’” Corden admitted, highlighting the emotional and psychological aspects of eating that many people struggle with.

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The comedian also lightheartedly described his eating habits, joking with Osman, “You’re looking at someone who’s eaten a king size, and when I say king size [Cadbury] Dairy Milk—one you give someone for Christmas—in a carwash.”

He added, “None of that was like, ‘Oh, I’m so hungry.’ It’s not that; it’s something else.” Corden’s experience underscores a crucial point: while Ozempic may suppress hunger, it doesn’t address the complex reasons behind overeating, such as emotional triggers or stress.

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Celebrities and Ozempic: A Trend with Mixed Reviews

Corden isn’t the only celebrity to share his journey with Ozempic. Earlier this year, Tracy Morgan also revealed on “The Tonight Show” that he used the drug to manage his weight, though he humorously admitted, “I’ve learned to out-eat Ozempic. I out-ate Ozempic. I’ve gained 40 pounds.”

Despite his comedic take, Morgan later clarified that Ozempic had been effective in cutting his appetite, but like Corden, he found that managing eating habits required more than just medication.

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The Complexity of Weight Management

Dr. Michael Greger, a well-known nutritionist and author, highlights that weight management is not solely about appetite suppression. Factors like metabolism, lifestyle, and psychological aspects play critical roles.

His research emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach that combines healthy eating, regular exercise, and mental well-being. For instance, incorporating whole foods and diverse nutrients can enhance metabolic rates and improve overall health.

By focusing on a balanced diet rather than quick fixes, individuals can achieve sustainable weight loss and better health outcomes.

According to Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, a positive psychology researcher, emotional well-being is crucial in the weight management process. She explains that emotions can significantly influence eating behaviors.

When individuals experience stress or negative emotions, they may turn to food for comfort, leading to unhealthy habits. Dr. Fredrickson suggests incorporating practices like mindfulness and gratitude to enhance emotional resilience.

By fostering a positive mindset, people can develop healthier relationships with food, making it easier to manage weight effectively over time.

As the buzz around Ozempic continues, it’s clear that while the drug may offer a temporary fix for appetite suppression, it doesn’t necessarily solve the deeper issues of emotional eating. For those considering Ozempic or similar drugs, Corden’s story serves as a reminder that the path to better health often involves addressing the psychological aspects of eating, not just the physical ones.

Building Healthier Patterns

In summary, managing weight effectively requires a multifaceted approach that considers physical, emotional, and psychological factors. Experts like Dr. Michael Greger and Dr. Barbara Fredrickson emphasize the importance of adopting a holistic strategy that includes healthy eating, emotional well-being, and regular physical activity.

To achieve lasting change, individuals should focus on nourishing their bodies with whole foods and practice mindfulness to improve their relationship with food. This comprehensive approach can create a healthier lifestyle that supports sustainable weight management.