Famous weatherman, Al Roker, took a risk 20 years ago by getting gastric bypass surgery. In 2002, he had weight loss surgery and then lost over 100 pounds. He took this leap after suffering from health problems and wanting to do something drastic to change his life forever. Tired of being known as the “fat weather man,” he sought to redefine himself in many ways, and he did. At 67, he took to social media to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his gastric bypass surgery and his new lifestyle. All we can say is that Roker is rocking a great new look.
Roker was once 340 pounds.
Holding up his old size 54 Levi jeans proudly, Roker smiled at his camera with glee. He posted on Instagram to celebrate, but also wants people to understand that his progress wasn’t made over night. He wrote, “It’s still a struggle but I’m never going back. I have setbacks and struggle every day, but I never forget how far I’ve come.” It would seem that this is a fulfillment that no one can take away, and Roker is just getting started.
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Diets weren’t working for him.
Before opting for surgery, Roker tried to lose weight by dieting and exercising. However, he still faced difficulties getting to a healthy weight. So, he decided to get surgery without telling his coworkers at Today, which led to quite the surprise.
He kept a healthy diet and exercised after surgery.
Sometimes people put weight back on following gastric bypass surgery, but Roker was determined for that not to happen. Although, it wasn’t easy, he changed his lifestyle completely. This included exercising regularly, eating better and giving his body the care that it needs, even when he’s tempted to turn back. In fact, he has a thing for sharing good news on social media while he exercises, and fans couldn’t be more on board.
Roker explained that the keto diet helped him.
Not only is Roker a fan of the keto diet, he also joined Today to share some of the recipes that have worked for him with audiences. While different things work for different people, Roker sure knows how to make a new lease on life look good.
He shares his meal ideas with others regularly.
People have been inspired by Roker for years, and they continue to be. Whether it was his time as a weather presenter, television personality or journalist, people have viewed him as a role model. They also look to him for some delicious healthy meal recipes, like this one on Instagram. One fan commented, writing, “Would love to know what seasonings and how you sautéed your greens thanks looks delicious.” It may be time for an official Al Roker cookbook.
In fact, the fan support is overwhelming.
People feel connected to Roker’s struggle and inspired by his success because they’ve experienced similar obstacles in their lives. With so much stigma that goes into weight and body image, along with possible health risks, it can be hard to discuss diet and surgery. Yet, Roker is very open with his fans, and by virtue, they feel comfortable opening up, too.
Roker finds joy with walks in the sunshine.
One of the benefits to exercise and a healthy diet can be improved mental health. Roker shares on social media that he enjoys walking on sunny days in South Beach, Florida after enjoying some tasty food. People leave comments, like, “You motivate me every day” and “Awww I know your enjoying your day!!! Keep encouraging us all!!” It would seem that Roker brings sunshine to other people’s life when he brings it to his own.
He hasn’t given up the occasional sweet treat.
Roker keeps it real with people, including that he enjoys food in his life, and it doesn’t always mean restrictive eating. He doesn’t skip out on higher calorie items completely, but ensures that he takes care of himself, even when he indulges in a sweet treat every now and then.
He believes in being kind to himself.
For some people, fitness can feel like a punishment. However, for Roker, it seems to be a form of self-care and self-love. He has a knack for motivating others as he motivates himself to get up and moving. He also advises people to challenge themselves in both exercise and in life. After all, if we don’t make daring moves, we may never discover just how capable we are.
Let us know what you think of Al Roker’s weight loss and overall lease on life in the comments, and if you feel inspired.
