Understanding Ozempic and Other Weight Loss Drugs: What You Need to Know. A Naturopath’s Perspective
In recent years, drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxsenda and Trulicity have become the mode of choice for weight loss .Celebrities, influencers, and the general population are turning to these medications to shed stubborn kilos, often with dramatic results. But what exactly do these drugs do? Why do they trigger rapid weight loss when other methods fail? And what are the risks and considerations you should be aware of before jumping on the bandwagon? This blog will help you understand what you need to know. And how can a Naturopath help support long term success ?
What Do Weight Loss Drugs Like Ozempic Do?
Ozempic belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs mimic a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which plays a role in blood sugar levels, appetite, and digestion. They effectively work to slow gastric emptying and suppress appetite, thereby leading to often significantly reduced kilojoule intake.
This effect can be particularly significant for those who have struggled with traditional weight loss methods. However, it’s important to note that weight loss isn’t the primary purpose of Ozempic—it is a drug designed initially for managing type 2 diabetes. And in fact, in 2022 there was a worldwide shortage of the drug for diabetics due to the rapid rise for its use for weight loss.
The Rapid Weight Loss Effect
Many people find themselves losing weight quickly on drugs like Ozempic for the following reasons:
- Appetite Suppression: These drugs reduce hunger signals, making it easier to eat less.
- Slower Digestion: Food stays in the stomach longer, reducing the frequency of meals.
- Reduced Cravings: By decreasing the actual intake of food, and down regulating food signalling systems within the brain, (usually associated with sweet and salty foods), these drugs can reduce dopamine reward pathways associated with food cravings. So, it can act as a circuit breaker when it comes to addictive food tendencies.
While these effects may seem “miraculous” income cases , they often mask underlying issues such as a poor relationship with food and emotional eating, hormonal imbalances, thyroid imbalances, gut and microbiome issues and nutritional deficiencies. These factors resurface once the medication is stopped.
The Cardiovascular Benefits
Research suggests that Ozempic type drugs can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes or obesity. This is not surprising given these diseases are related to visceral adiposity and weight gain around the organs. The combination of weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and lower cholesterol levels also contributes to these benefits. For the morbidly obese with concomitant cardiovascular and glucose metabolism issues the Ozempic route may likely be a good short term option. However, it may not be the best approach for everyone especially if you not in the morbidly obese category where the stakes can be high.
What to Expect on Ozempic
The Pros
- Rapid weight loss
- Lower blood sugar levels
- Reduced cravings
- Possible improvements to cardiovascular health
The Cons
- Digestive Issues
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and constipation which can escalate to impaction if not well managed.
- Gallbladder Problems and pancreatitis
- Increased risk of gallstones due to rapid weight loss.
- Neuropathy and Vision Issues
- Fluctuations in blood sugar can worsen diabetic neuropathy, including vision changes.
- Dehydration
- Suppressed appetite often leads to inadequate water intake and malnutrition for some.
- Mental Health Effects
- Mood swings, feelings of flatness, or anxiety have been reported.
- Thyroid Tumour Risk
- Animal studies suggest a potential risk of thyroid tumours.
- “Ozempic Face”
- Rapid weight loss without proper nutrition can lead to sagging skin, more wrinkles, muscle loss, and an older appearance.
The Social Media Factor
The explosion of interest in weight loss drugs has largely been fuelled by social media and influencer culture. It’s important to question the authenticity of this information pathway. Many influencers promoting these drugs may not disclose paid partnerships, and regulators such as the TGA in Australia have investigated cases of unethical advertising.
In addition, this trend can perpetuate harmful ideals around body image. While quick fixes like Ozempic might appeal to those chasing the appearance of influencers, they are likely to be doing this at the expense of longer term health.
A Holistic, Naturopathic Approach to weight management
For sustainable weight management, a naturopathic approach focuses on the body as a whole and a typical consultation will consider –
- Diet and Nutrition: A diet rich in good protein, fibre, and balanced macros where timing of meals is an important factor.
- Exercise: Tailored physical activity that aligns with individual needs and preferences.
- Underlying Factors: Investigating and managing:
- Thyroid function
- Poor sleep
- Gut and liver health
- Hormonal imbalances
- Stress and emotional factors
- Genetics and childhood eating patterns
- Mindset
- Inaccurate tracking of intake and overly processed food intake
- Food sensitivities and intolerances
- Over training – or types of training
- Certain medications can impact weight
- Salt imbalances
- Irregular eating times
- Metabolism issues
Why Quick Fixes Fall Short
Relying on Ozempic as a band-aid solution can lead to a cycle of weight regain, poor nutrition, and unmet emotional or physiological needs. While it’s a tool that may be effective in the short term, life will catch up if you don’t address the root causes of your weight struggles.
Be Informed Before Jumping on the Bandwagon
Remember, weight loss drugs are not a one size fits all solution. Being informed and question all information, especially what you see on social media. Long term health requires more than a weekly injection – it requires a deeper understanding of your body, habits, and overall well-being.
If you’re considering Ozempic or similar drugs, ask yourself:
- Why do I want this?
- What happens when I stop taking it?
- Am I addressing the root causes of my weight challenges?
- Am I being monitored for side effects and possible dangers while I am on it?
- Consider seeing a Naturopath whilst you are taking a medication like ozempic to review and ensure you maintain a healthy nutritional status and to provide support for gut function during the process. A Naturopath can also help you with stress management throughout the process and will help you once you cease treatment with education to help you avoid a rebound in your weight. Naturopathic care can co exist alongside ozempic treatment and can increase your chances of longer term success.
The Bottom Line
A holistic approach, incorporating nutrition, exercise, and an understanding of your unique health profile, is the cornerstone of sustainable weight management. While Ozempic might seem like a quick fix, true health comes from addressing the big picture—not just shrinking the number on the scale. If you would like further information please contact me – I’d love to hear from you.
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