For over a decade, Mama June Shannon has captivated audiences with her candid approach to life, from her reality TV debut on “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” to the dramatic narratives of “Mama June: Family Crisis.”
Alongside navigating family challenges and a personal battle with addiction, Shannon’s inspiring weight loss journey has been a key storyline in her life.
From Bariatric Surgery to Early Success
Gastric Sleeve Surgery in 2015
In 2015, Shannon underwent gastric sleeve surgery, a procedure prominently featured in her reality series “Mama June: From Not to Hot.” According to the Cleveland Clinic, the surgery involves removing a significant portion of the stomach, leaving a narrow “sleeve” to help restrict calorie intake and curb hunger. Shannon, who initially weighed 550 pounds, shared that she was down to 311 pounds on the day of the surgery.
Over the next six weeks, she shed an additional 116 pounds, reaching a weight of 195 pounds, as she revealed on Instagram in April 2024. Her transformation included working with weight loss expert Kenya Crooks, who revamped her diet and exercise routine.
Setbacks and Weight Regain
Gaining Back Over 100 Pounds
Despite her initial success, Shannon faced challenges maintaining her weight loss. After a period of stability, during which she weighed between 130 and 150 pounds, Shannon began gaining weight.
Stress from caregiving responsibilities, particularly during her daughter Anna Cardwell’s battle with adrenal cancer, contributed to her weight gain.
By 2023, Shannon estimated she had regained approximately 120-130 pounds. As the Mayo Clinic notes, weight regain following bariatric surgery is not uncommon if lifestyle adjustments are not sustained.
Exploring Revisional Surgery
Reconsidering Bariatric Procedures
In April 2024, Shannon revealed that she had considered revisional bariatric surgery, a procedure designed to correct or enhance the results of a previous surgery.
However, after consultations, doctors determined that her stomach structure was unchanged, making the surgery unnecessary. Instead, Shannon shifted her focus toward improving her dietary habits and reducing eating out.
Embracing New Weight Loss Strategies
Weight Loss Injections
When traditional methods stalled, Shannon turned to semaglutide injections, a medication approved by the FDA to suppress appetite. She started with a low dosage under her doctor’s supervision and documented her progress online. By the end of June 2024, Shannon had lost 30 pounds, averaging 4-5 pounds per week. She credited tirzepatide, another medication, for her ongoing success.
Gym and Exercise Routine
Shannon has also committed to a more active lifestyle, frequently hitting the gym. Her husband, Justin Stroud, praised her dedication, emphasizing the importance of health over weight loss. In addition to gym workouts, Shannon incorporated vibration plate exercises into her routine, which she practiced twice daily for 40 minutes.
Dietary Changes for Long-Term Success
High-Protein Diet
Shannon has overhauled her eating habits, focusing on protein-rich foods like yogurt, bars, and even high-protein cookie dough. While her strict regimen has drawn playful criticism from her family, Shannon remains steadfast, viewing her new approach as a permanent lifestyle change rather than a temporary diet.
Goals for the Future
Reaching Her Ideal Weight
With a target weight of 170-180 pounds, Shannon remains committed to her health journey. As of July 2024, she weighed 245.4 pounds and aimed to hit 230-235 pounds by mid-July. Her ultimate goal is to achieve her desired weight by December 2024.
Mama June Shannon’s weight loss journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability. From dramatic transformations following bariatric surgery to embracing new strategies like weight-loss injections and revamped fitness routines, Shannon continues to inspire her fans. Her commitment to health, combined with a candid portrayal of her struggles and triumphs, showcases her determination to achieve her goals while prioritizing her well-being.
FAQs
What type of weight-loss surgery did Mama June have?
She underwent gastric sleeve surgery in 2015, which involves reducing the stomach size to promote weight loss.
What is semaglutide, and how does it help with weight loss?
Semaglutide is an FDA-approved medication that reduces appetite, helping individuals manage their calorie intake.
How much weight has Mama June lost in total?
Since April 2024, she has lost over 30 pounds, with consistent weekly progress.
