OZEMPIC FOR WEIGHT LOSS ISN'T ALL IT'S CRACKED UP TO BE - HERE'S WHY

You can’t do anything without seeing social media post or new article on Ozempic for weight loss. But is it the wonder drug that can help you lose weight rapidly – and keep it off? Or is there more to this medication than meets the eye?

As a health practitioner, I’m keen to share what I’ve learned about Ozempic for weight loss. And I hate to burst your bubble, but it’s not all pretty.

WHAT IS OZEMPIC?

Ozempic is a prescription drug primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Recently, it’s become popularly spruiked as a weight loss aid, with many celebrities using it to drop the kilos.

Ozempic belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by mimicking the action of a hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar levels, as well as playing a role in appetite control. By activating the GLP-1 receptors, Ozempic can reduce appetite and promote a feeling of fullness.

When it comes to Ozempic for weight loss, it may seem like a magic solution. But it’s essential that we consider the limitations and potential side effects.

LET’S TALK SIDE EFFECTS

Before you decide that this is the medication for you, it’s time to delve into the physical side effects that may come with the use of Ozempic for weight loss. After all, you need to be prepared for what to expect!

Some of the things you might experience include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Stomach pain
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Changes to appetite

Keep in mind, these aren’t rare side effects either. In fact, some studies show that nearly half of users experienced one or more side effects!

There are also more serious side effects that may occur based on the animal & human trials, including thyroid tumours, hypoglycaemia, pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney failure and malnutrition – and many of these will land you in hospital. Using Ozempic can also trigger or exacerbate eating disorders.

WHY I DON’T RECOMMEND OZEMPIC FOR WEIGHT LOSS

Even if you put aside the above side effects (which I don’t suggest you do!), I’m still not keen on this latest trend.

Why? Because Ozempic is not a long-term solution for weight management. It doesn’t teach you how to eat to support and nourish your body or address underlying habits and behaviours that may be sabotaging your weight.

Quick fixes like Ozempic can provide temporary results.. But they often fall short when it comes to sustainable weight loss, especially when you factor in the symptoms it can cause (who wants to live with diarrhoea forever??)

You see, fat is protective—physically and metaphorically. Your body won’t release it if it senses any hint of famine, chronic stress or undernourishment. That’s why it’s important to take the time to understand your body, its unique needs, and how to put your meals together in a way that suits your individuality—your hormones, your metabolism. Knowledge truly is your best friend when it comes to weight loss, not pharmaceuticals.

OK, SO HOW DO I LOSE WEIGHT WITHOUT OZEMPIC THEN?

I’m glad you asked! This is one of my favourite topics to talk about, so buckle yourself in.

When it comes to achieving sustainable weight loss, a holistic approach is key. This means addressing not only what you eat but also how you eat, why you eat, your lifestyle, your behaviours, and any health issues that might be interfering with your goals.

SO WHAT DOES THAT LOOK LIKE? LET ME BREAK IT DOWN FOR YOU INTO SIMPLE STEPS:

Use food as your medicine! Eat more real wholefoods that are packed with nutrients and support your body’s functions. It’s not just about calories – food provides the fuel and tools you need to release excess weight.

Look to your lifestyle. Are you supporting a healthy weight with the way that you treat your body outside of food? We’re talking regularly moving your body, managing your stress levels, getting plenty of rest, doing things you enjoy. Build a routine that makes you feel good AND gives you a boost towards your health goals.

Don’t neglect the emotional aspects. That means you can’t keep pushing aside your emotional eating patterns, your overwhelming burnout, your self-sabotaging behaviours that seem to pop up whenever you try to tackle your weight. This can be pretty rough to go through by yourself, which is why I highly recommend getting support from a qualified health prac who can give you support & accountability along the way.

Identify any barriers. Is there something health-wise holding you back such as insulin resistance, a thyroid condition, or just plain old perimenopause? If you have even a slight suspicion that there’s something at play, now is the time to investigate! Start with your GP, but you may also want to seek the support of a naturopath if your doctor is not supportive of your concerns or willing to rule out potential problems.

MY FINAL THOUGHTS

Ozempic for weight loss (along with every other quick fix out there!) may promise a shortcut. And yes, you might see before-and-after pics everywhere – just like you did with keto, with low-fat, with all of the trendy fads.

But the truth is, long-term weight management requires a comprehensive approach. It needs to be personalised to you, your biochemistry, phase of life and lifestyle.

So as you embark on your own journey toward sustainable weight loss and overall well-being, remember this: it’s not just about suppressing appetite or relying on quick fixes. It’s gaining the knowledge and tools to nourish your body in a way that feels safe and supportive and will serve you well beyond perimenopause.

It’s this exact approach that I used to release 18kg over 14 weeks (plus I’ve maintained that loss for 2 years and counting!)

If you’re sick of quick-fix, one-size-fits-all options that don’t work for you and your body, I’m here to help. Weight loss might seem impossible in your 40s and beyond, but it doesn’t have to be! By taking a holistic and tailored approach, we can help you to not only look like a million bucks, but also feel amazing in your body.

Book in for a free discovery call today, and we can explore how I can help you to reboot your body and feel good again.