Sheryl Underwood, the beloved comedian and co-host of The Talk, has captured hearts with her humor and resilience. In recent years, she’s also inspired millions with her remarkable Sheryl Underwood weight loss journey, shedding nearly 100 pounds and transforming her health. From battling pre-diabetes and hypertension to confidently crossing her legs on stage for the first time in decades, Sheryl’s story is a testament to determination and lifestyle change. This article explores how she achieved her weight loss, the strategies she used, and tips for anyone looking to embark on their own health journey.
Who Is Sheryl Underwood?
Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Sheryl Underwood rose to fame as a comedian, actress, and television personality. Known for her wit and authenticity, she’s been a staple on The Talk since 2011. However, behind her vibrant persona, Sheryl faced significant health challenges, including obesity, pre-diabetes, and high blood pressure. Weighing between 230 and 250 pounds at her heaviest, she knew she needed to take control of her health to live a longer, healthier life. Her Sheryl Underwood weight loss journey began as a mission to overcome these challenges and inspire others along the way.
How Sheryl Underwood Achieved Her Weight Loss
Sheryl’s transformation didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of a strategic combination of medical intervention, dietary changes, exercise, and a commitment to long-term health. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements that fueled her success:
1. Wegovy: A Game-Changing Medication
A pivotal part of Sheryl Underwood’s weight loss was the use of Wegovy, a weekly injectable medication containing semaglutide. Recommended by her doctor as an alternative to gastric bypass surgery, Wegovy works by suppressing appetite and regulating hunger signals in the brain. Sheryl has been transparent about using this FDA-approved drug, emphasizing the importance of honesty in her journey. “I wanted to be truthful,” she told The Messenger, addressing the stigma around weight loss medications. Wegovy, combined with lifestyle changes, helped her shed significant weight and improve her lab results.
2. A Healthier Diet
Sheryl revamped her eating habits, moving away from processed and fast foods that contributed to her weight gain. She worked with a dietitian to create a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that included:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Sheryl embraced green, leafy vegetables, blueberries, and strawberries, foods she hadn’t previously prioritized.
- High-Fiber Foods: She incorporated fiber supplements like Metamucil, which she credits for improving her digestive health and helping her feel fuller longer. “Meta makes me betta,” she famously said.
- Portion Control: Even when indulging in favorites like cake or rosé, Sheryl practiced moderation, opting for small portions to satisfy cravings without derailing her progress.
By reducing her calorie intake to around 1,800 calories per day and focusing on whole foods, Sheryl created a sustainable calorie deficit that supported her weight loss.
3. Exercise and Movement
Despite her busy schedule, Sheryl found creative ways to stay active. She worked with a personal trainer to develop a routine that included:
- Cardio Workouts: Brisk walking and stationary biking allowed her to burn calories while enjoying music or phone calls.
- Strength Training: Lifting weights helped her build muscle and boost her metabolism.
- Daily Movement: Simple habits like walking around during phone calls or stretching in bed added up over time.
Sheryl’s approach to exercise was practical, fitting into her demanding life as a talk show host. “I love the stationary bike because I can listen to my music,” she shared with People.
4. Professional Guidance
Sheryl’s success was bolstered by a team of experts, including a dietitian, personal trainer, and medical professionals. Her dietitian tailored a plan to her needs, ensuring she got essential nutrients while losing weight. Regular check-ins with her doctors helped her monitor her progress, with lab results showing “normal, normal, normal” for the first time in years. This professional support kept her accountable and motivated.
5. Mindset and Motivation
A positive mindset was crucial to Sheryl’s transformation. Inspired by her The Talk co-hosts’ focus on health, she set out to improve her own well-being. Sheryl also drew motivation from personal milestones, like wearing a form-fitting dress for her 59th birthday episode in 2022. “I want to walk into church and all them saints fanning like, ‘Oh, she look good,’” she told People, highlighting how feeling confident fueled her progress.
The Results: A Life-Changing Transformation
By 2023, Sheryl Underwood’s weight loss totaled nearly 100 pounds, dropping from a size 20 to a size 12 and from 230–250 pounds to around 140 pounds. She also reduced her shoe size and dropped four dress sizes, a change she humorously noted made finding clothes tricky. “My booty is still a 10/12, but above my waist, I’m like 6/8,” she told The Messenger.
Beyond the physical changes, Sheryl’s health improved dramatically:
- Reversed Pre-Diabetes: Her lab work no longer showed signs of pre-diabetes.
- Lower Blood Pressure: Hypertension, once a major concern, was under control.
- Increased Energy and Confidence: Sheryl reported feeling more vibrant and self-assured, symbolized by her ability to cross her legs on The Talk—a moment she hadn’t experienced in 25–30 years.
Challenges Along the Way
Sheryl’s journey wasn’t without obstacles. Her demanding career made it hard to find time for exercise, and she initially considered gastric bypass surgery due to the severity of her health issues. Transitioning to a healthier diet required breaking long-standing habits, and maintaining weight loss demanded ongoing discipline. Sheryl overcame these challenges by setting small, achievable goals and leaning on her support system, proving that persistence pays off.
Tips for Your Own Weight Loss Journey
Inspired by Sheryl Underwood’s weight loss? Here are practical tips to kickstart your own transformation:
- Consult Professionals: Work with a doctor, dietitian, or trainer to create a personalized plan that suits your needs.
- Embrace Whole Foods: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and fiber-rich foods to fuel your body and curb hunger.
- Incorporate Movement: Find activities you enjoy, like walking or biking, to make exercise sustainable.
- Practice Moderation: Enjoy treats in small portions to avoid feeling deprived.
- Stay Accountable: Regular check-ins with professionals or supportive friends can keep you on track.
- Focus on Health, Not Just Appearance: Aim for improved energy, lab results, and well-being, as Sheryl did.
Why Sheryl’s Story Resonates
Sheryl Underwood’s weight loss journey is more than a celebrity transformation—it’s a relatable story of overcoming health challenges through hard work and honesty. Her transparency about using Wegovy, paired with her commitment to diet and exercise, sets her apart in an industry where quick fixes are often glamorized. By sharing her story, Sheryl has inspired countless fans to prioritize their health, proving that sustainable change is possible with the right mindset and support.
Conclusion: Start Your Journey Today
Sheryl Underwood’s weight loss journey—from 230–250 pounds to a healthier, happier 140 pounds—is a powerful reminder that transformation begins with a single step. Whether you’re motivated by her use of Wegovy, her dietary overhaul, or her practical approach to exercise, Sheryl’s story offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to improve their health. Ready to take control of your well-being? Consult a healthcare professional, set realistic goals, and let Sheryl’s resilience inspire you to create your own success story. Share your thoughts or progress in the comments below, and let’s celebrate health together!
