A Star From My 600-lb Life Finally Discussed Her Experience On The Show

My 600-lb Life viewers will remember Amber Rachdi for her radical transformation on the hit TLC show. But while the makeover had a positive effect on the reality TV star’s well-being and physical appearance, her time on the program turned out to be detrimental to her mental health. Several years on, Amber spoke out about what really went on behind the scenes. And be warned: it’s not pretty.

660 pounds at 24

Amber was just 22 years old when she first got involved with the reality show that launched her to fame — or infamy as some might say. But she weighed an astonishing 660 pounds at the time. Amber was without doubt enabled by her mom, dad, and partner, with whom she resided in the Oregon city of Troutdale. 

“A nasty monster”

Not only did Amber’s size leave her housebound, but it also meant she found it difficult to stay on her feet for longer than 30 minutes. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the reality star was sorely lacking in self-esteem, even admitting that she felt like a “nasty monster.” Yet within 12 months of being part of the show, Amber had shed more than a third of her original body weight.

A football to a baseball

Yes, Amber found herself 267 pounds lighter by the time her first season on the TLC show had wrapped up. The reality star achieved this by undergoing a gastric bypass operation that shrunk her stomach — it now looked like a baseball rather than a football. But if the procedure was going to work then Amber would also need to quit turning to food for comfort.

Comfort eating

Early on in the show, Amber freely admitted that she used food as a coping device. In one episode she says, “I have a lot of anxiety, and I am at peace when I eat.” And Amber also revealed that she’d still reach for her favorite foods even when physically unable to take another bite.