Ashley Graham against new standards

The use of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss has become particularly visible in Hollywood in recent years, with many celebrities speaking out about their use, and the trend is now spreading beyond the celebrity world. That's why Ashley Graham warns that such a turn of events feels like a "slap in the face," especially after years of struggling to accept different body types.

The supermodel and activist, who has built her career on the idea of ​​the body-positive movement, spoke about this increasingly prevalent trend for Marie Claire magazine's annual issue dedicated to motherhood.

Graham (38) reflected on the popularity of weight loss drugs and how they have brought thinness back into focus in the world of entertainment and fashion.

"It's really disheartening. There was a time when everything was moving towards body acceptance, positivity and the idea that everyone can be whatever they want. And now it's going back in the exact opposite direction, which is like a slap in the face to women who finally had a voice," said the model and mother of three.

Speaking specifically about the fashion industry, Graham pointed out that fashion follows the times, and that weight loss drugs are "part of that time."

"This drug won't erase a whole statistic about women," she added.

GLP-1 drugs work by reducing appetite and helping regulate blood sugar levels by mimicking the body's natural hormone. According to the National Academy of Medicine, they are used to treat type 2 diabetes, but also for weight loss, as they slow stomach emptying, reduce hunger and prolong feelings of fullness.

Still, Graham doesn't think the rise in their use means the end of the body-positivity movement altogether. She says she's seen more progress for women of all sizes in her career than is often acknowledged.

"Why would I stop now and why would I be angry about everything I've done? I'm focusing on the women we've built a community with," said Graham, who recently introduced a collection for the JCPenney brand aimed at curvy women.

She adds that she is not the only one who thinks that way.

"There are many influencers and content creators of different sizes and looks, who are authentic and close to the audience. What's most interesting to me is seeing that girls who grew up with social media today have a platform to tell younger people: 'Be yourself, be what you want. Do you have cellulite? Who cares?'" she emphasized, adding that it is important to continue the fight for women of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds to have access to clothes that fit them and to build self-confidence.

"Our community is not just curvy women. It's all women, because in the end, confidence makes no difference," she concluded.