Sara Rue, best known for her role as Carmen Ferrara in Popular, has undergone a striking transformation over the years.
Now 36 and starring in TV Land’s Impastor, Rue embarked on a profound weight-loss journey, shedding over 50 pounds in the process.
Her experience led her to collaborate with the pharmaceutical company Takeda, encouraging others to set their own weight loss resolutions.
Embracing The Role of Weight Loss Advocate
After struggling with her weight for years, Rue now finds herself at the forefront of weight-loss discussions. Having been a spokesperson for Jenny Craig and now spearheading another initiative, she admits that weight loss has been an ongoing process throughout her life.
“I still don’t feel entirely comfortable discussing the exact amount of weight I lost or how long it took, but I’m no longer embarrassed,” Rue shared. “I’m proud and honored to be able to support and empower women. In the U.S., about 66% of women over 20 struggle with being overweight or obese. This is a significant issue that needs to be addressed.”
Why She Decided to Lose Weight in Her 30s
Weight loss is an emotional and complex process, especially for those in the entertainment industry. For Rue, her decision wasn’t just about fitting into specific roles but also about achieving mental and physical well-being.
“When I turned 30, I envisioned where I wanted to be in the next five to ten years, and my reality didn’t align with that vision,” Rue explained. “It was as simple as wanting a change and as complicated as dealing with a thousand different emotions tied to it.”
Body Image and Self-Love
Throughout her life, Rue aimed to appreciate herself for who she was. However, there were moments when she yearned for change.
“I’ve always believed in self-love and encourage others to do the same, but there were definitely times when I wanted to be healthier and feel different about myself.”
The Balance Between Body Positivity and Health Concerns
When asked about the idea of loving one’s body at any size, Rue responded with a balanced perspective:
“If you’re comfortable in your body and your doctor says you’re healthy, then that’s fantastic. However, being overweight or obese can contribute to serious health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
If there are health concerns, it’s worth speaking to a doctor about making changes. Weight loss isn’t about being skinny—it’s about being as healthy as possible.”
The Key Changes That Led to Her Success
One of the most significant shifts Rue made was conscious eating. She realized she had been mindlessly consuming food without acknowledging it, leading her to feel unsatisfied.
| Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Conscious Eating | Became aware of food choices and portion control |
| Plant-Based Diet | Switched to a mostly plant-based diet without eliminating specific foods |
| Regular Physical Activity | Integrated hiking, spin classes, and daily walks into her routine |
| Balanced Perspective | Focused on overall health rather than an idealized body image |
“Once I became mindful of what I was eating, I started making healthier choices. It wasn’t about eliminating foods—it was about balance and awareness.”
Incorporating Fitness into a Busy Schedule
As a working mother, Rue had less time than ever for structured workouts, but she found creative ways to stay active.
“I make the time, whether it’s waking up early for a quick treadmill session or merging fitness with social activities,” she shared. “I live near hiking trails in Los Angeles, so I often hike with friends. It’s a great way to catch up while staying fit.”
FAQs
1. What motivated Sara Rue to start her weight loss journey?
She turned 30 and realized that her life goals and health aspirations didn’t align with her current situation, which prompted her to make a change.
2. Did Sara Rue follow a specific diet?
No, she didn’t cut out any particular foods but transitioned to a mostly plant-based diet, focusing on mindful eating.
3. How did she manage fitness as a busy mom?
She fit in quick workouts, utilized hiking as a social activity, and ensured she remained physically active throughout her daily routine.
