Ozempic

Recently, this drug is being passed out like candy for weight loss. Does it work? Absolutely it does! Below are the main “benefits.”

Appetite Reduction: GLP-1 receptor agonists, like Ozempic, may influence the brain's appetite regulation centers, leading to reduced feelings of hunger. This can result in lower caloric intake, contributing to fat loss.

Slowed Gastric Emptying: GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic can slow down the emptying of the stomach, which may contribute to greater satiety. This can result in lower calorie consumption throughout the day, contributing to fat loss.

Increased Insulin Sensitivity: GLP-1 receptor agonists improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control. Better blood sugar regulation can lead to improved energy utilization, reduced feelings of hunger, which can potentially contribute to fat loss.

I am not going to demonize this drug, but I will encourage those who consider it to proceed with caution. The FDA does not accept DEXA, and only the scale in weight loss studies. The FDA does not accept body composition as a measurable indicator when studying this drug.

The literature is not quite clear yet, but there have been many reports of several patients taking Ozempic who not only lose fat mass, but muscle mass at an alarming rate. If you go from 200 to 180 and lose 10 lbs of fat and 10 lbs of muscle… Technically you are now fatter.

Decreased muscle mass leads to the down-regulation of metabolism, increased risk of injury, impaired mobility and functionality, decreased bone density, weakened immune function, and more..

It is not your WEIGHT that matters so much, it is your body composition. Again, proceed with caution. 

Lifestyle intervention obviously works for everyone. Proper nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management. I won’t argue that it is more difficult for some to lose body fat. It most certainly can be.

I am not a licensed medical professional. But if you are considering hopping on Ozempic, please exhaust your efforts with lifestyle intervention first, and seek guidance from a fitness professional to guide you.