Ozempic is a medication primarily prescribed to assist individuals with Type 2 diabetes (1,2) in managing their blood sugar levels. Yet, it has unveiled an unexpected side effect: aiding in weight loss (3). For those looking for less invasive alternatives to bariatric surgery and who haven't found success with traditional diets, Ozempic presents a new avenue to explore in weight management.
How Ozempic Affects Appetite
Ozempic operates by simulating a hormone our bodies naturally produce to control appetite (4). Thus, Ozempic can make you feel satiated quicker and for an extended period after consuming a modest meal, potentially fostering improved eating habits without the hunger pangs that often lead to snacking or overeating.
Weight Loss Is Not Assured for Everyone
While reducing portion sizes is a known method to aid weight loss by prompting the body to utilize fat stores, the response to decreased appetite may vary among individuals. Some might experience a notable decrease in body mass index, others less so, highlighting the need for tailored follow-up and a comprehensive weight management strategy.
The Importance of Medical Consultation
Ozempic should not be used without the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is essential to discuss your particular health circumstances and how Ozempic might fit into your regimen with a doctor. They can assist in evaluating the pros and cons and determining whether it is the appropriate option for you, even short-term.
Considerations of the Disadvantages
Like all medications, Ozempic has its share of side effects, with gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and stomach pains being common. It's important to recognize that weight loss with Ozempic might not just be fat loss; muscle mass can be lost too. This is particularly concerning if the reduced appetite leads to insufficient protein intake, further contributing to muscle loss. Additionally, the cost of Ozempic, which may not be covered by insurance, along with current supply issues in pharmacies, can be significant barriers for some individuals.
Post-Ozempic Weight Realities
It's not uncommon to regain weight after discontinuing Ozempic, which can be frustrating. Weight can creep back if dietary habits and exercise routines are not adapted to sustain weight loss, such as through the consumption of sugary beverages or habitual overeating.
The Role of a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Consulting with a registered dietitian-nutritionist can help in developing lasting healthy eating behaviors, even post-Ozempic. They can guide you in understanding the effects of nutritious foods on your body and in crafting a diet plan conducive to enduring health.
Your Partner for Sustained Health
Whether you're contemplating Ozempic for your weight loss journey or seeking dietary balance, schedule a session with a registered dietitian nutritionist from our team at TeamNutrition. Our professionals are dedicated to offering bespoke plans and continuous support to help you reach and maintain your health goals over the long term.
Références
- Tsapas A, Avgerinos I, Karagiannis T, Malandris K, Manolopoulos A, Andreadis P, Liakos A, Matthews DR, Bekiari E. Comparative Effectiveness of Glucose-Lowering Drugs for Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis. Ann Intern Med. 2020 Aug 18;173(4):278-286. doi: 10.7326/M20-0864. Epub 2020 Jun 30. PMID: 32598218.
- Tsapas A, Karagiannis T, Kakotrichi P, Avgerinos I, Mantsiou C, Tousinas G, Manolopoulos A, Liakos A, Malandris K, Matthews DR, Bekiari E. Comparative efficacy of glucose-lowering medications on body weight and blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2021 Sep;23(9):2116-2124. doi: 10.1111/dom.14451. Epub 2021 Jun 15. PMID: 34047443.
- Tan HC, Dampil OA, Marquez MM. Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide for Weight Loss in Obesity Without Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J ASEAN Fed Endocr Soc. 2022;37(2):65-72. doi: 10.15605/jafes.037.02.14. Epub 2022 Aug 23. PMID: 36578889; PMCID: PMC9758543.
- Mahapatra MK, Karuppasamy M, Sahoo BM. Semaglutide, a glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonist with cardiovascular benefits for management of type 2 diabetes. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2022 Jun;23(3):521-539. doi: 10.1007/s11154-021-09699-1. Epub 2022 Jan 7. PMID: 34993760; PMCID: PMC8736331.
