Bollywood director Karan Johar opens up about his weight‑loss struggle, dismissing Ozempic rumors and highlighting his shift to a rice‑based, low‑sugar diet. He also discusses gluten, lactose intolerance, and thyroid medication.

  • Karan did not use Ozempic; he changed his diet.
  • Cutting added sugar and choosing rice helped his weight loss.
  • Addressing thyroid issues was essential for sustainable results.

Background of the Weight‑Loss Struggle

During the December 2025 episode of The Manyavar Shaadi Show, Karan Johar clarified that contrary to popular belief, he never took the GLP‑1 drug Ozempic. He revealed severe gluten and lactose intolerance, which led him to replace roti with rice and potatoes as his primary carbs.

Key Dietary Adjustments

Johar explained that he would “diet through the day” yet indulge in kheer at night, limiting his sugar intake to one piece of chocolate every three days. This strict sugar cut reduced his overall caloric intake, contributing to gradual weight loss.

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Medical Expert Insight

Dr. Sujit Nair, consultant gastroenterologist at KIMS Hospitals, Thane, noted that while GLP‑1 medicines like semaglutide can cause significant weight loss, they require prescription and medical supervision. He emphasized, “Reducing added sugar can aid weight loss, but it’s not the sole factor; overall diet, activity, sleep, metabolism, and underlying health conditions matter.”

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that celebrity diet advice often misleads the public. Karan’s experience underscores that undisclosed health issues—such as thyroid imbalance—must be addressed before any diet can be effective or safe.

“Cutting added sugar and balancing macronutrients are essential for long‑term metabolic health.” – Dr. Sujit Nair
Did You Know?: Ozempic demand in India surged by 250% in 2020, yet most users obtained it without a prescription, raising safety concerns.

Historical Context

Indian film stars have tried various weight‑loss trends over the decades—from low‑fat diets in the 1990s to low‑carb regimens in the 2000s. Johar’s current approach, focusing on gluten‑ and lactose‑free foods and a rice‑centric diet, reflects a more personalized, science‑backed nutrition model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Did Karan actually take Ozempic?
A: No, he explicitly stated he never used the medication.

Q2: How effective is cutting added sugar for weight loss?
A: Reducing sugar lowers calorie intake, but lasting results require a holistic lifestyle change.