‘This Is Us’ star Chrissy Metz says she turned to GLP-1 drug after years of skepticism

Chrissy Metz is opening up about her decision to use a GLP-1 after years of skepticism about the popular weight-loss medications .

During an appearance on the "Today" show on Monday, the "This Is Us" star, 45, explained that she reconsidered the drugs as she entered perimenopause and thought more seriously about her health and her family's history with obesity.

"I was very skeptical about GLP-1s for years," she said.

"I had a friend who was like, I don't know, he gave me a thesis, and I was like, 'OK, this might be helpful.'" MAYIM BIALIK DETAILS 'NIGHTMARE' AFTER ONE INJECTION OF GLP-1 DRUG LED TO WEEKS OF DEBILITATING SIDE EFFECTS After witnessing her father experience complications with his own health, Metz thought, "Maybe I should try and get ahead of it." "It was something that I thought would be good for me," she said.

Since taking the drug, Metz said she's noticed a difference in her energy level, as well as her "overall health." Despite the previous skepticism, Metz said the most important thing for her is "longevity." "Learning what it really was and how it affects everybody differently ... my doctor and my team were like, ‘Yeah, I think this would be beneficial for you,’" said Metz, who admitted she was "nervous" and "scared" to try it.

LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS "That's what's sort of beautiful, it's a whole lifestyle change," said Metz, who has also incorporated strength training and exercise into her regimen.

"It's not just, 'Oh, I'm going to take a medication,' because it's not the easy way out.

I think a lot of people think 'Oh, it's a magic wand,' and no, in fact, you have to be more diligent.

It's good for me because I'm really putting myself first.

It's something I've always wanted to do, but I have to really put into practice now." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER "It's been a really wonderful journey," she added.

Her decision marks another chapter in a yearslong, highly public conversation surrounding Metz's weight and health .

Metz shot to fame playing Kate Pearson on NBC's "This Is Us," where struggles with weight and body image were a major part of the character's storyline.

The actress said in a 2017 interview that "so many people are afraid of fat people," arguing that education and more open conversations about weight could help change those attitudes.

Metz has also spoken candidly about how her complicated relationship with food and weight began long before Hollywood.