After 160lbs Lost, This Woman Shares What Really Happened to Her Body!

A woman who drastically changed her life through weight loss medication is making waves online after revealing the realities of her transformation. Amy Kane, 35, from Chicago, has halved her weight, shedding 160 pounds with the help of Ozempic, a popular drug for weight loss. Kane’s TikTok post, shared on October 3, has gone viral, with over 1.7 million views. In the clip, Kane lifts her sweater to show the loose skin on her stomach, captioning the moment with humor: “Can you believe Ozempic did this?” then clarifying, “I really can because Ozempic helped me lose 160 pounds.”

Alongside her personal reflections, Kane responds to a critical comment that questions why people on Ozempic often appear to have loose, saggy skin rather than muscle tone. She insists the medication itself isn’t to blame, saying, “There’s nothing in the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medication that caused her ‘saggy skin.’” She hopes her journey can help challenge the societal judgment often directed at people struggling with their weight.

What is GLP-1?

GLP-1 medications, including Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and Mounjaro, have been in use for years but have recently gained popularity for their weight-loss benefits. According to the University of Chicago Medicine, these drugs work by mimicking a natural hormone in the body, GLP-1, which regulates insulin and glucose levels and reduces appetite. Gallup reports that 6% of U.S. adults, or roughly 15.5 million people, have used injectable diabetes medications, with half using them specifically to help with weight loss.

The Reality of Loose Skin

Kane’s video responds to a social media comment suggesting that diabetes and weight loss drugs cause loose skin. In her experience, Kane clarifies that loose skin is simply a side effect of significant weight loss, regardless of how it’s achieved. She says she’s healthier and happier with her body now than before, after shrinking from a size 24 to a size 4.

Consultant plastic surgeon Hazim Sadideen of the Cadogan Clinic in London corroborates this. “For individuals who lose 100 pounds or more, the likelihood of excess skin is extremely high and is unrelated to the specific weight-loss method,” he told *Newsweek*. Kane hopes to shift the conversation from criticism to understanding and compassion, sharing her journey to reduce shaming around weight and body image.

Health Implications of Excess Skin

Loose skin isn’t just a cosmetic concern; it can also have health implications. Dr. Samuel Lin, a board-certified plastic surgeon and Associate Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School, points out the physical challenges associated with excess skin. “While the health risks of obesity far outweigh the issues associated with skin laxity, the impact of excess skin remains significant,” he explains. Physically, skin folds can trap moisture, leading to skin irritation, inflammation, and even infection, a condition called intertrigo. Bacteria thrive in these moist environments, increasing the risk of skin problems and complications like ulcers. Excess skin in the abdominal area may also contribute to urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction, affecting day-to-day life.

A New Approach to Food

Kane’s journey with weight loss is complex. Living with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance, she has faced challenges in managing her weight. “Weight loss has always been extremely challenging for me,” she shared with *Newsweek*. “This led to years of disordered eating and an unhealthy relationship with food.” Kane notes that for a long time, she turned to food for comfort, especially during a difficult period with postpartum depression.

Now, she focuses on moderation, prioritizing protein and staying hydrated while avoiding restrictive diets. “I am very proud of myself and how hard I have worked,” she says, acknowledging the emotional work involved in accepting her new body. Although she’s planning a tummy tuck procedure to remove the excess skin, Kane is already feeling a shift in self-esteem and confidence.

Society’s Shift in Perspective

With this transformation, Kane says she feels a distinct difference in how society views her. “I am treated like a completely different person in society than when I was in my larger body,” she says. Her story sheds light on the stigma that people with larger bodies often face and the newfound acceptance that can come with weight loss. As she continues to share her experience online, Kane hopes to empower others to embrace their bodies at every stage.

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