Rapper Fat Joe, once known for his larger-than-life persona on and off stage, has recently revealed that his impressive 200-pound weight loss journey was aided by Ozempic, a medication typically prescribed for diabetic patients.
Fat Joe, born Joseph Cartagena, has been open about his struggles with weight and his long-standing battle with diabetes, which was diagnosed when he was just 12 years old.
At his heaviest, the artist weighed 470 pounds, and he sought a healthier path. Ozempic played a significant role in helping him shed the pounds.
“Ozempic says you may only have two pieces of your favorite stuff. We just try to eat everything with the least carbs as possible. So we try to avoid the bread, pasta, and rice. That’s the smartest way to eat,” he told US Weekly.
Ozempic, a drug designed to manage blood sugar in diabetic patients, has gained widespread attention in recent years for its weight loss side effects. Many have hailed it as a “miracle” drug for weight loss, although its popularity has also sparked controversy.
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The medication’s surge in off-label use as a weight loss solution has led to shortages, sparking concern among diabetic patients who rely on it for its primary purpose. Despite the buzz, Fat Joe is among those who used the drug responsibly, combining it with lifestyle changes to reach his goals.
The Bronx-born rapper, who recently received an honorary doctorate, stressed that while Ozempic was helpful, his weight loss wasn’t achieved through the medication alone. He credited a disciplined diet focused on reducing carbohydrates as a key part of maintaining his new healthier lifestyle.
Fat Joe said foods like bread, pasta, and rice are mostly off-limits as he strives to manage his weight long-term. He added that his strategy emphasized portion control and mindful eating, a far cry from the indulgent habits of his past.
Fat Joe’s transformation, however, does not signal a change in his stage name. He plans to stick with the moniker that made him famous.
