Jonathan Van Ness Opens Up About 66-Pound Weight Loss

If you’re a Queer Eye fan, then you know and love Jonathan Van Ness, the show’s bubbly hairstylist known to share their words of wisdom to invoke confidence in someone’s life. And on social media, the star has been open about their health and weight loss.

Recently on his Instagram story, Van Ness shared more on his weight loss and explained how he lost 66 pounds since starting his journey.

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Van Ness admits that GLP-1 medication was helpful, but notes that diet and exercise also played a huge role in helping him feel his best.

“I want to note GLP-1s have been a huge help, I have also made major other changes,” they wrote in a story post on Sunday. “First was my diet obvs, second was way less alcohol, and finally group pilates which has been most pivotal.”

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medication are commonly prescribed to those looking to control their blood sugar levels or appetite, and Van Ness had previously opened up on TikTok that he was prescribed the medication to “control” his diagnosed binge eating disorder.

But alongside GLP-1 medication, healthy eating (which could mean prioritizing fiber-rich foods) and limiting alcohol consumption was helpful for the host. In fact, there is science surrounding the topic and how alcohol can impact your weight and metabolism in this way.

Van Ness says that while all of these things contributed, the most “pivotal” aspect of his weight loss journey was group pilates, and he explains why.

“My mental health and overall feeling is a different universe since last year and the biggest change was group fitness,” Van Ness says. “Overall though, I’m so proud of myself and want to share.” There is scientific evidence that regular exercise can improve your mental health alongside your physical strength. This includes stress management, boosting energy levels and lowering anxiety levels, among other things.

We applaud Van Ness for being so open about both his physical and mental health journey. And his final message to his fans is extremely important for those looking to follow his lead.

“Take what works for you [and] leave the rest,” Van Ness wrote. We’re big fans of this message: weight loss is not “one size fits all,” so talk to your doctor or dietitian about the steps catered to your needs if weight management is your goal.