Oprah's Weight Gain

The latest issue of Oprah Winfrey's O magazine is all about her recent weight gain. Oprah laments her 40 pound weight gain over the last few years - that sees her current weight at over 200 pounds. She blames an out of control schedule with food as comfort.



Oprah has devoted a large portion of her air time to the subject of health and weight loss. She's tried various techniques, endorsed diets, books, and programs that went on to sell in the millions.

What's a viewing audience to do? Feel bemused, disappointed, annoyed, sympathetic? Or reach for another packet of Oreo's and change the channel?

If Oprah can't maintain her weight - with personal chefs, trainers and who knows what else at her disposal - then what hope is there for the average Jo?

Tom Venuto gives his advice:

Oprah must first take personal responsibility and make the commitment to be accountable to herself. Then, she must become accountable to others. [...] She needs to tell her audience and fans NOT to let her off the hook and her fans need to play their part and agree that they WON'T let her off the hook.

Yeah maybe - but I don't know if I'd be comfortable with giving a million people permission to tell me what to do every other day.

Here's the reality: we're all average Jo's. We may idolize those with wealth, fame, and influence - but they have the same frail bodies and emotional flaws as we do.

When Oprah passes (as we all will one day) - what should she be remembered for: her constant obsession with yo-yo weight, or her wide-ranging contributions to the betterment of humanity?

Set appropriate goals for yourself and stop comparing with others.