Mariah Carey has been a household name for decades, beloved for her powerhouse vocals and iconic songs like “Vision of Love” and “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” However, in recent years, fans have been just as fascinated by her transformation off-stage. Mariah Carey’s weight loss journey is one that has captivated many, not only because of her celebrity status but because of the emotional and physical evolution that came with it. In this article, we’ll delve into her journey, the changes she’s made, and the secrets behind her stunning transformation.
Mariah Carey Weight Loss Starting Point: Struggles with Body Image
In interviews over the years, Mariah has been candid about her fluctuating weight and her struggles with body image. “It’s not easy to be in the public eye and have people scrutinize every single inch of your body,” she shared in a 2018 interview. Despite her glamorous persona, Mariah faced a series of challenges related to her weight, including intense media scrutiny. In fact, her weight became a point of criticism that deeply affected her self-esteem.
Mariah has always been outspoken about the emotional toll her weight has taken on her, noting that at times, it affected her ability to feel comfortable in her own skin. “I didn’t love the way I looked. I didn’t love the way I felt, either,” she admitted. But that all began to change when she realized she needed to take control of her health—not just her appearance, but her mental well-being as well.
Mariah Carey Weight Loss Turning Point: Gastric Sleeve Surgery in 2017
Mariah Carey’s weight loss journey truly began to take shape in 2017 when she underwent gastric sleeve surgery, a decision that surprised many of her fans. This surgery, which reduces the size of the stomach, helps individuals eat less and, as a result, lose weight. Though she has never publicly confirmed the details of the procedure, there were rumors swirling around after her noticeable weight loss in the months following the surgery.
In 2017, Mariah faced some of the hardest years of her career, and it wasn’t just about the personal toll of her divorce from ex-husband Nick Cannon or her struggles with her voice and health—it was about her relationship with her body. As she put it, “I had to come to a point where I said to myself, ‘Enough is enough. It’s time to make a change.’”
But gastric sleeve surgery wasn’t the only thing Mariah did to lose the weight.
Diet: Embracing Whole Foods and a Balanced Approach
While many speculated that Mariah’s weight loss was solely due to surgery, Mariah was quick to clarify that diet and lifestyle changes played a significant role in her transformation. Mariah shares that her diet has become a key component of her health routine. “It’s not about deprivation,” she explained in a 2023 interview. “It’s about nourishment. My diet now is based on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins like salmon.” She has also sworn off processed foods, sugary snacks, and carb-heavy meals.
At one point, she had eliminated carbs almost entirely from her diet, sticking to high-protein meals. Her typical day might include salmon with capers, veggies, and a high-protein smoothie. For Mariah, the goal wasn’t about extreme dieting but rather about eating in a way that supported both her physical and mental health. In fact, Mariah Carey’s weight loss plan was designed with a clear focus on long-term sustainability rather than quick fixes.
According to some sources, she adheres to a 1,500-calorie-a-day diet, which allows her to maintain a healthy caloric intake while also making room for indulgences in moderation.
Exercise: Finding Balance Without Overdoing It
Mariah Carey isn’t exactly known for her intense workout routines, and she doesn’t have time for lengthy gym sessions. But like many of us, she understands the importance of regular exercise to keep her body strong and healthy. “I’ll work out maybe three times a week, nothing crazy,” she explained in one of her interviews.
Her exercise regimen includes a mix of cardio and strength training that she incorporates into her lifestyle. She also emphasizes the importance of moving her body every day, whether it’s through a light walk or a quick dance session in her living room. It’s all about staying active without feeling burdened by the need to hit the gym every single day.
One of her biggest tips for those on a weight loss journey? Don’t be afraid to take things slowly.
Mindset: From Struggles to Success
In addition to the physical changes, Mariah Carey has gone through a huge mental shift during her weight loss journey. She recognizes that her emotional and mental well-being are just as important as her physical transformation.
“My mindset is everything,” she shared. “When you feel better about yourself, it’s easier to make better choices for your health.” Her weight loss journey has also been about letting go of old insecurities and embracing self-love, a concept Mariah has often struggled with.
Perhaps the most heartwarming part of her transformation is how much she loves herself now. “I feel stronger. I feel more confident. I feel like I’m finally living my best life,” she said in a 2024 interview. For Mariah, the journey wasn’t just about fitting into a smaller size but also about gaining the confidence to truly enjoy her life.
Celebrating Mariah Carey Weight Loss Transformation: The 70-Lb Milestone
By 2024, Mariah Carey had lost a total of 70 pounds, and she looked nothing short of radiant. Her weight loss was evident not only in her performance at the Billboard Music Awards in 2023 but also in the photos shared by her on social media. Fans couldn’t stop talking about her dramatic transformation, especially after she posted a stunning photo showing off her toned figure.
Her newfound confidence was undeniable, and it was clear that she was living proof that weight loss isn’t just about the numbers on a scale—it’s about the mental and emotional transformation that comes with it.
Mariah Carey Weight Loss Impact on Mariah’s Career
Interestingly, Mariah Carey’s weight loss didn’t just impact her physical health—it affected her career in unexpected ways. In fact, she later shared that her weight loss gave her a new sense of freedom in her performances. “I feel more confident on stage. I feel like I can move more freely,” she explained.
Her success has inspired many fans and followers, particularly women who have struggled with their body image. Her openness about her struggles and her willingness to embrace change made her relatable and, ultimately, even more admired.
Final Thoughts: A Journey of Self-Love and Healthy Change
Mariah Carey’s weight loss journey is one of resilience, self-love, and a healthy approach to personal transformation. While surgery was a part of her path, it was her dedication to making lasting changes in her diet and lifestyle that truly shaped her new, vibrant self.
Her story is a reminder that weight loss is a personal journey, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. For Mariah, it’s about finding balance in her life, honoring her body, and, most importantly, celebrating herself in the process. So, what’s the takeaway from Mariah’s journey? Start with what makes you feel good, trust the process, and never be afraid to reinvent yourself—just like she did.