Sam Altman Discusses Health Habits and Hospitalization Due to Semaglutide

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently shared insights into his personal health journey, revealing that he experimented with the medication semaglutide before its mainstream popularity. He disclosed that this decision led to a hospitalization, although he did not specify the cause of his medical emergency.

During a conversation on the “Conversations with Tyler” podcast hosted by Tyler Cowen, Altman reflected on his fluctuating health consciousness in relation to his demanding schedule. “When I was less busy, I was more disciplined on health-related stuff,” he noted, highlighting how work commitments have shifted his focus away from maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Currently, he described his habits as indulgent, stating, “I now do basically nothing. I eat junk food. I don’t exercise enough.”

Semaglutide, marketed under brand names such as Ozempic and Wegovy, is a medication primarily prescribed for obesity and type 2 diabetes. It works by curbing appetite, which can lead to weight loss. Many individuals, including Altman, have taken the drug off-label, even if they do not have the conditions it is designed to treat.

Altman is not alone in his experimentation with semaglutide. Notably, fellow entrepreneur Elon Musk has also mentioned using Wegovy to enhance his physical fitness. Musk stated in 2022 that the drug helped him achieve “fit, ripped, and healthy” status, further popularizing the medication among tech industry figures.

In addition to semaglutide, Altman has explored other medications in his quest for longevity. Reports from MIT Technology Review indicated that he has used metformin, a medication known to aid in weight loss and potentially slow aging processes. His commitment to longevity is underscored by his financial backing of the startup Retro Biosciences, which focuses on extending human lifespan.

Despite these health ventures, Altman admitted that his current lifestyle is far from ideal. “It’s like a pretty bad situation. I’m feeling bullied into taking this more seriously again,” he said, reflecting on his shift towards less health-conscious choices. His penchant for junk food mirrors that of Musk, who has openly expressed his preference for fast food.

Cowen, intrigued by Altman’s dietary choices, questioned the appeal of junk food, to which Altman responded, “It does taste good.” Their discussion touched on Altman’s previous dietary practices, including 15-hour fasting periods and a vegetarian diet supplemented by protein shakes.

Ultimately, Altman’s candid reflections underscore the challenges of maintaining health amidst a high-pressure career. As he continues to navigate his responsibilities at OpenAI, the balance between personal well-being and professional demands remains a central theme in his life.