Lizzo is choosing to describe her transformation on her own terms, opting for the phrase “weight release” instead of “weight loss”—a” shift she says better reflects the depth of her journey.
Speaking on On Purpose—Jay Shetty’s acclaimed podcast centered on mental health and self-growth— The Juice singer opened up about the emotional layers of her transformation. “The weight that is no longer on me is not just fat or physical,” she said. “I’ve released so much to get to this point.”
"I released so much to get to this point, and I think people can see that, and I don't want to describe anything as loss. I'm not experiencing any loss. I've actually gained so much."
The 36-year-old artist recognizes that not everyone will immediately connect with the language she's using to describe her journey. Still, she's standing firm in her choice. “People aren’t going to understand this right now,” she admitted, “but it’s the most body-positive way to experience what I’m going through.”
“I don’t want to use any negative terms,” Lizzo said, explaining her decision to shift the language around her health journey. Her commitment to body positivity—and to being a mindful role model—drives that choice.
“I want to be very intentional with the words that come out of my mouth,” she continued. “There are young people watching me, taking in what I put into the world, and applying it to their lives—just like I did when I was a kid.”
Lizzo also shared that embracing a new way of living has given her a fresh outlook on both life and health. “I’ve gained a sense of self,” she said. “I’ve gained a lifestyle that I actually really love, and I’m like, ‘I can maintain this.’”
She went on to reflect on how her approach has evolved: “I’ve gained new perspective on nutrition and the science behind cardio and weightlifting.”
Lizzo—born Melissa Viviane Jefferson—revealed in January that she had reduced her body fat by 16 percent as part of a recent health-focused shift. Still, she pointed out that, according to the Body Mass Index (BMI), she would continue to be categorized as “morbidly obese.”
In a raw and honest Instagram video, she addressed the limitations of that label with characteristic clarity. “Even at the end of my weight loss journey, I’m not going to be considered thin by any means,” she said. “I will still be considered morbidly obese on the BMI, and little bros on the internet are still going to call me big-backed. But I will be happy.”