⚠️ We’re diving deep today! This is our fourth blog post on the topic of semaglutide-based drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy because it keeps coming up in my coaching sessions and live classes. I'm committed to helping you make informed decisions—and I want to be transparent about what professionals are saying, especially those who aren’t profiting from promoting these products.
Let’s Start with the Basics
What is Ozempic?Ozempic is a brand name for semaglutide, a drug originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. It mimics GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), a hormone our bodies naturally produce to help regulate blood sugar by slowing digestion and signaling the brain that we’re not hungry.
What’s the Buzz About Weight Loss?
While Ozempic is primarily prescribed for diabetes, it has a secondary benefit: weight loss. This occurs because it reduces hunger by slowing digestion and telling the brain, “We’re full.”
For weight management, a similar product called Wegovy was developed, using the same ingredient—semaglutide—but with the primary purpose of weight loss.
No Judgment Here, But There Are Risks
Let’s be clear—I don’t judge anyone using these drugs for any reason. They can be an incredible tool when used properly. However, misuse or relying on them without building healthy lifestyle habits can lead to significant negative side effects.
Many people are chasing quick fixes, asking, “How can I lose weight as fast as possible?” instead of, “How can I use this as a tool to lose weight safely and sustainably?”
The Dangers of Rapid Weight Loss with Semaglutide
⚠️ Muscle Loss is Real
With healthy weight loss, 18-25% of the weight lost tends to be muscle.
When weight is lost too quickly, such as through misuse of semaglutide, studies show that up to 40% of the weight lost is muscle.
Why does this matter? Muscle is essential, especially as we age—it supports metabolism, strength, and overall health. Losing muscle can have long-term negative effects that are hard to reverse.
⚠️ Malnutrition RisksUsing these drugs improperly can lead to malnourishment—similar to the long-term risks associated with eating disorders like anorexia. This happens when people drastically cut calories, fail to eat enough to stay nourished, and lose weight too quickly.
The Bottom Line: Use These Tools Safely
Ozempic, Wegovy, and similar products can be safe and effective—but only when used responsibly and under the right guidance. If you’re considering these medications, here are my recommendations:
1️⃣ Do Your ResearchThese drugs come with risks and side effects—and not just in the short term. Make sure you fully understand the potential impact on your health.
2️⃣ Work with a CoachHaving a coach will ensure you’re:
Eating enough to stay nourished and healthy.
Building sustainable habits so you can maintain your progress after stopping the medication. A coach can guide you through lifestyle changes to help you thrive beyond the scale.
A Lifelong Injection?
One thing you must understand: These medications are not meant to be a quick, one-time solution. Many people find that the weight loss benefits only last as long as they’re actively taking the drug—making it a lifelong commitment.
💡 Want to Learn More?
If you’re serious about making informed decisions, head to GlitterU.com and check out my other posts on this topic.
Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future content aimed at helping you navigate the hype, make smart decisions, and feel your best for life!
YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THE 2 VIDEOS BELOW KEEP SCROLLING DOWN.....
GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy, which contain semaglutide, have shown effectiveness for weight loss by reducing appetite and improving blood sugar control. However, these medications can cause unintended muscle loss along with fat loss, especially during rapid weight reduction. Studies indicate that around one-quarter to one-third of the weight lost using these drugs may come from lean muscle mass rather than fat alone.
Losing muscle during weight loss can result in decreased strength and endurance, which may affect daily activities and overall physical function. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as "sarcopenic obesity" or “skinny fat,” occurs when there is a higher proportion of fat relative to muscle, even in people who appear lean. Maintaining muscle mass is essential for metabolism and mobility, which is why experts recommend combining these medications with resistance training and adequate protein intake to minimize muscle loss.
To optimize results, it is essential to follow a structured exercise program (like strength training 2-3 times a week) and maintain a diet rich in quality proteins. Monitoring body composition—rather than just tracking weight—is also critical to ensure muscle loss is minimized while on these medications.
resources:
For those using GLP-1 agonists, balancing rapid weight loss with healthy habits is key to long-term health and sustained weight management. Staying hydrated and consulting with healthcare professionals or dietitians can further support this process.
If you'd like to dive deeper, you can explore more about the impact of semaglutide and related recommendations
JAMA Network
ps://
hingehealth
#FitnessEducation #WellnessJourney #SmartChoices #SustainableWeightLoss #Ozempic #Wegovy #InformedDecisions
Commentaires