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For chef Sara Bradley, food has always been more than sustenance—it’s a connection to family, a source of comfort, and a celebration of life. But as the demands of a successful restaurant and a growing family took hold, Bradley found her own health taking a backseat. Her journey back to wellness, detailed in a recent interview, highlights the complex interplay of lifestyle, mindset, and, medical intervention in achieving sustainable weight loss.
When Life Got Busy, My Health Took a Backseat
Bradley’s culinary career blossomed after graduating from culinary school, leading her to open Freight House in Paducah, Kentucky, a restaurant that has now celebrated a decade of success. The restaurant’s opening coincided with a particularly demanding period in her life. In 2018, she was unexpectedly invited to compete on of Top Chef, a commitment that required her to leave her business for three months. Coupled with a recent marriage, Bradley found herself in a state of constant “survival mode,” neglecting her own well-being.
The long hours and demanding nature of the restaurant industry took a toll. Late nights often meant indulgent meals – cheeseburgers, fries, and beer – or large takeout orders shared with her husband, with little left for leftovers. A nightly routine of Cheetos and red wine before bed became a familiar comfort. Her weight climbed to .
Having Kids Changed Everything
The turning point came with the arrival of her daughters, Lula, born in , and Hazel, born in . “I no longer wanted to just be in survival mode,” Bradley explained. “I wanted my daughters to see me thrive and love the way I looked in the mirror.” The physical demands of motherhood – carrying and chasing her children – highlighted her declining stamina and prompted a deeper reflection on her longevity. “I want to be here for as long as I can to be with these children,” she said, “so I began to ask myself, what can I do to extend that time?”
In the spring of , while breastfeeding Hazel, Bradley embarked on a weight loss journey, initially adopting a ketogenic diet, aiming for . Tracking her intake proved crucial in fostering mindful eating habits. She prioritized protein intake, finding it increased satiety and eliminated sugar crashes. She also limited herself to one glass of wine daily, a significant change from her previous habits.
I Didn’t Give Up the Foods I Love—I Got Smarter About Them
Bradley’s approach wasn’t about deprivation, but about making informed swaps. Recognizing that completely eliminating favorite foods was unsustainable, she sought healthier alternatives. For example, she opted for keto-friendly bread, adding protein and fiber to her carbohydrate intake. She found that baby carrots and pickles, with a touch of blue cheese dressing, satisfied her cravings for crunchy snacks like Cheetos.
When working late, Bradley would order a grilled Caesar salad with shrimp from her restaurant, providing a dose of lean protein, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging emotional connections to food, allowing herself occasional indulgences without guilt.
No More All-or-Nothing Thinking
Alongside dietary changes, Bradley incorporated exercise into her routine, lifting heavy weights twice a week with a trainer, attending yoga once a week, and taking her dog for regular walks. She embraced a “progress over perfection” mindset, recognizing that even two workouts a week were a victory.
After initially losing on keto, Bradley faced a setback while filming Top Chef , regaining . Returning to keto proved less effective, prompting her to discuss weight-loss medication with her doctor. She began using Wegovy in , which, combined with exercise, led to further weight loss.
Bradley openly addressed the initial stigma associated with using medication for weight loss, acknowledging her discomfort with the perception of “taking the easy way out.” However, she reframed her thinking, drawing parallels to medication used for mental health and other chronic conditions. She reported significant improvements in her health, including the resolution of plantar fasciitis and a cessation of snoring.
In , she switched to Zepbound due to gastrointestinal discomfort and is now on a maintenance dose. She noted that the medication diminished her constant thoughts about food and reduced her urge to snack.
This Is the Life I Want
As of , Bradley has lost , weighing around . She expresses feeling confident in her body and prioritizing a balanced lifestyle. She’s found a weight that feels right for her, a size , allowing her to enjoy food and be present for her daughters.
Bradley’s health journey has also influenced the menu at Freight House, with many dishes now easily adaptable to accommodate various dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. She believes everyone deserves to enjoy delicious food.
Her go-to meal? Beef tartare from her own restaurant, packed with protein and flavor. At home, she acknowledges her cravings and practices moderation, opting for cauliflower-based alternatives to rice and creating a healthier version of mac and cheese.
Looking Ahead (With Pie, of Course)
Bradley is currently preparing to open a new event space and is finishing her cookbook, The Kitchen I Came Home To, scheduled for release in the fall of . The cookbook will feature family recipes, including her mother’s brisket and her own reimagined versions. She continues to participate in culinary competitions, but her primary focus remains on maintaining her health, staying present for her family, and enjoying life – with a slice of pie now and then.
