The reality television star Heather Gay, known for her role on The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, has publicly celebrated a significant personal achievement: a 30-pound weight loss that she attributes to the use of GLP-1 medication. In a candid interview with Women's Health magazine, the 51-year-old entrepreneur and mother of three detailed her journey, which began in 2023 and has since reshaped her perspective on health and self-image.
A Skeptical Start Leads to Remarkable Results
Gay admitted that she initially approached GLP-1 medications—a class of drugs primarily used to manage blood sugar levels and reduce food cravings—with considerable skepticism. "I looked at them with the same skepticism that I've looked at every diet and every weight loss trick and fad that's come to me since I was a little girl," she explained, reflecting on a lifetime of weight management challenges. Despite having embraced her body over the years, curiosity drove her to try the medication, leading to what she now describes as a miraculous outcome.
Sustained Success and Lifestyle Adjustments
The turning point came when Gay managed to maintain her 30-pound weight loss for an entire year without drastic changes to her exercise or diet initially. "When I was able to keep the weight off and maintain it for a year—and still keep my same horrible personality—I was like, this is a miracle!" she exclaimed. However, as she settled into her new weight, she recognised the need for intentional nutritional support, prompting a partnership with the Atkins diet plan, which offers low-carbohydrate and high-protein options tailored to her lifestyle.
In addition to dietary adjustments, Gay has incorporated more physical activity into her routine, including a weekly yoga class with her three daughters—Ashley, 21, Georgia, 19, and Annabelle, 16—and occasional indoor cycling sessions. These changes, combined with the medication, have fostered a profound shift in how she views herself, moving away from notions of willpower and towards a science-based understanding of weight management.
Embracing Science Over Shame
Gay's experience has led her to challenge societal attitudes towards weight loss, emphasising that it is not solely a matter of personal determination. "I wish that we didn't make it all about your own willpower, your own determination, your own strength, because sometimes, it's just about science," she stated. She recounted how traditional methods like calorie counting never worked for her, and forgiving herself for past struggles has been liberating. "Once I forgave myself and said, 'It's not my fault,' it really made me feel better about who I was as a person," she added.
A Message of Empowerment and Happiness
This is not the first time Gay has spoken about her use of GLP-1 medications; she previously defended her decision in an interview with USA Today, highlighting the newfound comfort and control she feels. "I've never felt more comfortable in my body. And I feel like I'm able to maintain my shape and accomplish important things while still being in control of my weight, which is the first time in my life I've ever had any power over it whatsoever," she shared. Addressing critics who have shamed her both for her weight and her choice to use medication, Gay firmly declared an end to such negativity in her life.
"And if you're going to shame me for being heavy, you're going to shame me for using GLP-1s, I am done with shame in my life," she asserted. Today, Gay expresses immense happiness and success, viewing her wellness journey as the perfect complement to her overall life achievements. "I am very happy, and I feel like I'm very successful, and having this wellness journey and feeling comfortable and healthy in my body has been like the cherry on top of it all," she concluded, inspiring others to seek solutions that work for them without guilt or judgment.
