Jonathan Van Ness Talks Wellness, Diet & Health Journey
Jonathan Van Ness, star of Queer Eye, recently shared his journey of losing 70 pounds after facing a medical issue that led him to use GLP-1 medication, originally developed for type 2 diabetes but now widely used for weight loss. His transformation has sparked discussions around body positivity, with Van Ness emphasizing the importance of self-love and body neutrality, regardless of size or shape. He highlighted the significance of feeling good and prioritizing health, explaining how the medication helped him manage an eating disorder and regain control of his well-being. Van Ness’s story serves as a reminder that wellness is a personal journey and can be achieved through informed choices, whether through medical support, fitness routines, or balanced nutrition. This philosophy aligns with Malta’s health-conscious culture, where self-care, mental health, and sustainable living are embraced. From yoga retreats and nutrient-rich Mediterranean cuisine to outdoor activities like coastal hikes, Malta offers a variety of resources for those seeking a fulfilling lifestyle. Van Ness’s message resonates with the
Jonathan Van Ness Shares Insights on Health, Weight Loss, and Body Positivity: A Lesson in Wellness
In the journey towards living a healthier, happier life, Queer Eye star Jonathan Van Ness has sparked a conversation about health and self-love after addressing his 70-pound weight loss. The 38-year-old hairstylist recently opened up about his transformation, shedding light on his experience and responding to critics who questioned his stance on body positivity.
Van Ness revealed that his weight loss journey began following a “medical issue” in 2023, which led to a colonoscopy. When the procedure didn’t provide the answers he was seeking, he chose to use GLP-1 medication, a treatment originally developed for type 2 diabetes but now widely used for weight loss. GLP-1 drugs work by increasing the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar, appetite, and digestion—key factors in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
In a TikTok video, Van Ness shared his thoughts on body image, wellness, and the changes he’s experienced since starting GLP-1 medication and attending Pilates classes at Solidcore. He remarked that his body “has never looked like this,” adding that he now has abs he’s always dreamed of. “I’m taking my shirt off a lot,” he joked. Yet, his message went far beyond physical transformation; it centered on feeling good and prioritizing health.
“I was always really cute, and I always felt cute. But I just didn’t feel good. And now I feel good,” Van Ness said, emphasizing that body positivity isn’t about the size or shape of your body but about accepting and celebrating yourself at every stage. He highlighted the importance of body neutrality, a concept that aligns with Malta’s growing wellness movement, where self-care and mental health are just as important as physical fitness.
Van Ness passionately addressed critics who accused him of abandoning body positivity, stating: “The way that you look does not define your worth. It doesn’t define your lovableness. You are worth love and celebration, no matter what your body looks like.” His words echo the growing philosophy within Malta’s health-conscious community, where self-compassion and balance are central to a fulfilling lifestyle.
For those in Malta striving to combine health and indulgence, Van Ness’s story offers valuable lessons. Living well doesn’t mean adhering to rigid diets or extreme fitness regimens; instead, it’s about making informed choices that support both physical and mental well-being. Whether you’re exploring Malta’s vibrant restaurant scene or enjoying local Mediterranean cuisine rich in fresh produce, seafood, and heart-healthy olive oil, the key is finding a sustainable approach to health that works for you.
Van Ness also candidly shared how the medication helped him manage an eating disorder, allowing him to regain control of his health. “This time in my life, I knew that I needed a little bit of extra help,” he said. “With everything I’ve been through publicly and privately in the last couple years, I gained quite a bit of weight, wasn’t feeling good.”
While his journey is unique, it underscores the importance of recognizing when additional support is needed to achieve optimal health—whether through medical treatment, exercise, or dietary changes. Residents and visitors in Malta can take cues from this approach by embracing the island’s array of health-focused resources, from yoga retreats and wellness centers to restaurants offering nutrient-packed meals. Pairing these with activities like coastal hikes or water sports can help maintain both physical and mental balance.
In closing, Van Ness shared his confidence and joy in his transformation, saying, “I feel like a f***ing minx right now. When I’m 80, I want to see pictures of me when I was in my 30s looking cute. So, that’s why the top’s off, because I feel really cute.”
His journey serves as a reminder that health and happiness come in many forms, and the path to wellness is deeply personal. Whether you’re exploring Malta’s culinary delights or embarking on a new fitness routine, the focus should always be on feeling good inside and out. As Van Ness puts it, “You are worth love and celebration, no matter what your body looks like.”