Ree Drummond, the beloved star of The Pioneer Woman, is setting the record straight regarding her well-documented weight loss journey. In a recent update, Drummond addressed public speculation and clarified that she did not utilize weight loss medications or supplements to achieve her health goals.
Ree Drummond at an event. Alt text: Ree Drummond, Pioneer Woman, smiles at event, weight loss journey clarification.
Tyler Essary/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty
This clarification came via a Facebook update to her 2021 blog post, where she initially detailed her approach to getting healthier. Drummond specifically stated, “I did not take Ozempic, Wegovy, or similar medications.” This direct statement aims to dispel any rumors linking her transformation to the recent trend of prescription weight loss drugs.
Ozempic and Wegovy are FDA-approved medications primarily intended for individuals with type 2 diabetes and obesity. These medications, known for their active ingredient semaglutide, have gained attention in Hollywood for off-label use in weight loss. Drummond acknowledged the effectiveness of these drugs for many, saying, “I support anyone who has success using the above medications. I know they have been an absolute godsend for so many people; I have friends who’ve experienced incredible results.” However, she emphasized that these options were not part of her personal journey, as she was unaware of them when she began her health transformation in January 2021.
Drummond reiterated that her weight loss was achieved through lifestyle changes, focusing on diet, fitness, and overall healthier habits, as outlined in her original blog post. Even as her weight fluctuates naturally, she maintains this approach. “Today, even though I have gained a few pounds up and down, I still have not chosen that option,” she confirmed, speaking about weight loss injections. Importantly, she added a message of non-judgment, “But you’ll never hear a second of judgment from me about people who choose that direction!”
Furthermore, Drummond addressed the issue of misleading advertisements. She cautioned that her name and image, like many public figures, have been misused in fake ads promoting weight loss gummies and supplements. She explicitly stated she has not endorsed or used any such products, warning against celebrity endorsement fraud schemes.
Ree Drummond posing at an event for her magazine. Alt text: Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond at magazine event, weight loss journey update, healthy lifestyle.
Monica Schipper/Getty Images for The Pioneer Woman Magazine
Looking back to October 2023, Drummond had previously discussed maintaining a 50-lb weight loss for nearly three years in an interview with Today. She highlighted straightforward strategies, emphasizing mindful eating and calorie awareness. “The biggest takeaway, which I don’t always adhere to, is trying not to waste calories,” she explained, contrasting nutrient-rich meals with less beneficial choices like donuts.
Drummond’s approach to health is multifaceted. She incorporated more protein and vegetables into her diet, eliminated alcohol, and integrated regular exercise, including walking her dogs and using a rowing machine at home. While admitting her exercise routine isn’t always consistent – “Right now, the rowing machine is a clothes rack” – she underscores the importance of movement.
Her philosophy revolves around a balanced and sustainable lifestyle, avoiding restrictive diets or extreme workout regimens. “I think what I’ve done over the past two years is knowing that I don’t want to push things away or say no to foods,” Drummond stated. Instead, she focuses on increased activity, like extra dog walks and consistent rowing, especially during less active months.
Ree Drummond’s recent update reinforces her commitment to transparency and provides clarity on her health journey. Her emphasis on sustainable lifestyle changes over quick fixes resonates with her audience, offering an accessible and relatable approach to health and well-being.
