Josh Gad, renowned for his roles in “Frozen” and “Beauty and the Beast,” recently revealed his use of GLP-1 medication for weight loss on the “Armchair Expert” podcast with Dax Shepard and Monica Padman. He described the medication as a “miracle drug,” emphasizing its positive impact on his life and his commitment to his family’s well-being.
Gad candidly shared his experience with the medication, explaining how it effectively suppresses hunger pangs. GLP-1, short for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, works by influencing satiety signals in the brain. Popular brands of GLP-1 medications include Ozempic and Mounjaro.
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While acknowledging the medication’s effectiveness, Gad emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle alongside its use. He stated that the medication should not replace a balanced diet and regular exercise. He previously lost 40 pounds on a different medication but had to switch due to developing diverticulitis, an inflammation of pouches in the colon.
Gad expressed his initial apprehension about discussing his weight loss journey publicly but ultimately decided to share his experience. He confessed to feeling like he was “cheating” at times, but his primary motivation for pursuing weight loss is his desire to be present for his children. He shares two daughters, Ava and Isabella, with his wife, Ida Darvish.
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Darvish, according to Gad, has expressed concerns about his reliance on medication, questioning whether he is addressing the underlying causes of his weight gain. Gad also shared his personal anxieties about potentially altering his public persona as he loses weight. He questioned whether audiences would accept him in different roles if he was no longer “the funny fat guy.”
Despite these concerns, Gad’s focus remains on his family. He declared that his ultimate goal is to be healthy and present for his children, dismissing other concerns as insignificant. His commitment to his health journey demonstrates a dedication to his family and a willingness to embrace change for their well-being. He affirmed that being there for his kids is his top priority, making everything else secondary.
