Reality TV star and trans advocate Jazz Jennings has been on a weight loss journey. In a new Instagram video, Jennings, 23, showed herself two years ago and then more recently. 

It shows Jennings jogging and undertaking other exercises. In an accompanying caption, Jennings says, “Two years later and almost 100 pounds lighter! I’m so proud of my progress and want to thank my family, friends and all who supported me in getting there! 

“Good health is not a certificate you display, it is a constant effort! I still have room for improvement, but I am more motivated and inspired than I’ve been in years. Let’s keep it going!”

Weight gain

Two years ago, Jennings revealed she’d been diagnosed with Binge Eating Disorder (BED). She said she’s gained 100lbs in the previous two years. 

Posting a photo to Instagram at the time, she said,  “As many of you have noticed, over the past few years, I have gained a substantial amount of weight.

“I suffer from binge-eating disorder, a disease in which I’m not only addicted to food, but I eat it in large quantities,” Jennings continued. “My binging, along with an increased appetite I experience from some of the meds I’m on, has caused me to gain almost 100 lbs. in a little less than 2 years. I’m posting this photo because it’s time for me to address my weight gain and hold myself accountable.”

Earlier this year, Jennings revealed she’d managed to lose 70lbs. She told her followers, “No matter my weight, I have always felt beautiful. However, losing this weight and prioritizing my health has created a shift within.”

That post prompted criticism from some people. They felt Jennings was not loving her body or turning her back on body positivity. Jennings responded by saying this is not the case.

“Sometimes, loving yourself and your body means honoring your desire to make a change,” she explained. “It’s like going to the gym: you do it to boost your confidence and improve your image. How you look is important in this world because it influences how we perceive one another. 

“Our bodies are our vessels, and everyone should have autonomy over how they treat theirs, whether it’s through diet, exercise, how we dress, makeup, or surgery. You do what makes you feel better about yourself. It’s not your place to tell someone else what to do; they have the freedom to decide.”