Jazz Jennings, the star of "I Am Jazz," has proudly shared her significant weight loss journey, revealing that she has shed nearly 100 pounds over the past two years. Despite this impressive milestone, Jennings is committed to striving for even more personal goals.
The 23-year-old transgender advocate took to Instagram to post a video documenting her weight loss progress. The video captures the challenges she faced at the beginning of her journey, including a moment where she leans against a wall, exhausted and out of breath after a run. Reflecting on her transformation, she wrote, "Two years later and almost 100 pounds lighter! I’m so proud of my progress and want to thank my family, friends, and all who supported me in getting there."
Jennings emphasized that maintaining good health is an ongoing endeavor. "Good health is not a certificate you display; it is a constant effort!" she stated. She acknowledged that while she has made significant progress, there is still more to achieve. "I still have room for improvement, but I am more motivated and inspired than I’ve been in years. Let’s keep it going!"
Looking ahead, Jennings expressed her determination to continue pursuing her health goals. "I’m proud of my progress toward better health, but I’m still running towards more goals!" she shared, underscoring her commitment to ongoing growth and self-improvement.
Nearly two years earlier, Jennings had opened up about her weight gain, revealing she had put on "almost 100 lbs. in a little less than two years." At that point, she decided to "hold myself accountable" after being diagnosed with binge-eating disorder (BED). On Instagram, she explained, "I suffer from binge-eating disorder, a disease in which I'm not only addicted to food, but I eat it in large quantities."
The National Eating Disorder Association describes binge-eating disorder as involving "recurrent episodes of binge eating and consuming larger amounts of food in a discrete period of time."
After shedding 70 pounds, Jennings reflected on her journey, saying, “No matter my weight, I have always felt beautiful. However, losing this weight and prioritizing my health has created a shift within.” She continued, “The first step toward improving your well-being is caring. I finally care about myself after years of neglecting my health. I had truly let myself go when it came to eating. I am so proud of my weight loss, and I feel my confidence radiates through.”
Jennings encourages others to prioritize their own well-being, advising, “Overall, take care of yourself and do things that make you happy and light. We can always strive to be better, and choosing to be the best version of yourself allows you to soar to heights higher than ever before.”
When faced with criticism online from those questioning her commitment to body positivity, Jennings addressed the backlash by saying, “Sometimes, loving yourself and your body means honoring your desire to make a change.” She elaborated, “Loving myself and my body means taking the steps and making the changes that help me feel my best and present myself authentically. I hope that makes sense and that you can appreciate my perspective.”
Through her journey, Jazz Jennings continues to inspire others by showing that self-love and self-improvement can coexist, each supporting the other on the path to a healthier, happier life.
The Quran - Chapter Al-Qalam : 14 - 15
Now, ˹simply˺ because he has been blessed with ˹abundant˺ wealth and children,
whenever Our revelations are recited to him, he says, “Ancient fables!”
