Ree Drummond, also known as “The Pioneer Woman,” is admired for her cooking, country charm, and family-centered life on the ranch. But in recent years, it was her incredible weight loss transformation that left fans both surprised and inspired. She shed nearly 60 pounds in just one year—not with extreme diets or shortcuts, but by embracing sustainable lifestyle changes.
Let’s take a look at the 10 steps Ree took to transform her health and achieve long-lasting results.
1. She Took Accountability
A Personal Wake-Up Call
Ree wasn’t motivated by a number on the scale or pressure from others. She simply reached a point where she didn’t feel like herself anymore. She admitted to feeling sluggish, out of breath, and uncomfortable in her body. Instead of waiting for a perfect plan, she decided to take full responsibility for her choices.
This mindset shift helped her stay committed and consistent.
2. She Stopped Relying on Fad Diets
No Keto, No Intermittent Fasting
Ree made it clear: her weight loss wasn’t due to any trendy diet. She didn’t cut out all carbs, skip meals, or rely on meal replacements. Instead, she focused on eating fewer calories and making smarter food choices. For her, it was about balance—not restriction.
This approach helped her avoid the stress and burnout that often come with extreme dieting.
3. She Cut Back on Sugar and Alcohol
Small Cuts, Big Results
Ree didn’t eliminate sugar or alcohol completely, but she reduced her intake significantly. This made a huge difference in cutting down on empty calories and improving her overall health.
Limiting sugary desserts and cocktails gave her more room in her diet for wholesome, nourishing foods.
4. She Focused on Portion Control
Measuring Instead of Guessing
One major habit Ree adopted was using a food scale to measure portions. This helped her stay aware of how much she was actually eating—especially with calorie-dense foods like pasta, cheese, or nuts.
Rather than feeling deprived, she learned to enjoy her favorite foods in smaller portions.
5. She Prioritized Protein
Lean and Filling Choices
To help her feel full and maintain muscle mass, Ree focused on eating more protein at each meal. Eggs, grilled chicken, turkey, and Greek yogurt became staples in her new eating routine.
Protein helped her stay satisfied for longer and cut down on unnecessary snacking.
6. She Got Serious About Exercise
Starting Small, Staying Consistent
Ree didn’t jump into an intense workout program overnight. She began by simply walking more and being active around the ranch. Over time, she incorporated strength training, resistance exercises, and even rowing.
The key for her wasn’t perfection—it was showing up and doing something every day, even if it was just 15 minutes.
7. She Tracked Her Progress
Data That Drives Motivation
Ree used a digital food journal and fitness tracker to keep tabs on her calorie intake and activity levels. Seeing real numbers helped her stay motivated and understand the impact of her daily choices.
This level of awareness allowed her to make adjustments and stay on track without feeling lost or discouraged.
8. She Got Support From Her Family
Encouragement at Home
With a busy household and lots of cooking around her, Ree leaned on her family for encouragement. Her husband Ladd and their children supported her goals and celebrated her progress.
Having a strong support system made a big difference, especially during tough days.
9. She Focused on Mental Health
A Positive Inner Voice
Ree knew that weight loss wasn’t just about the body—it was also about the mind. She worked on being kinder to herself, avoiding guilt, and focusing on the positive changes she was making.
This healthy mindset helped her build confidence and avoid the toxic cycle of shame or self-criticism.
10. She Made It a Lifestyle, Not a Goal
No Finish Line
Even after losing nearly 60 pounds, Ree didn’t see her journey as “done.” She understood that staying healthy is a lifelong commitment. Her new habits became part of her daily routine—not just something she did to lose weight quickly.
This shift from short-term thinking to long-term wellness is what helped her maintain her results.
Final Thoughts: Ree Drummond’s Journey is a Reminder That Slow, Steady Change Works
Ree’s transformation wasn’t about perfection, shortcuts, or overnight results. It was about showing up every day, making small improvements, and not giving up when things got hard. Her story proves that with patience, commitment, and self-love, lasting change is possible.
If you’re starting your own wellness journey, take inspiration from Ree. You don’t need to follow a trendy diet or spend hours in the gym. Focus on simple steps, build good habits, and celebrate every win—big or small.
Quick Recap: Ree Drummond’s 10 Weight Loss Habits
- Took accountability and stopped making excuses
- Avoided fad diets and focused on balance
- Reduced sugar and alcohol intake
- Practiced portion control using a food scale
- Prioritized protein-rich meals
- Exercised regularly with walking and strength training
- Tracked her food and workouts
- Leaned on her family for support
- Cared for her mental health
- Adopted a long-term lifestyle approach
Ree Drummond’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when you combine dedication with kindness toward yourself. And the best part? You can start your own journey today—just like she did.
