The Ozempic Craze: Miracle Weight Loss or Risky Shortcut?
Because of the ethical considerations being ignored of this drug’s potential negative impact on human health, the endless pandering, propaganda, obfuscation of the facts, and profiteering that accompanies it, I really felt compelled to share with my readers how Ozempic works, what risks (like all pharma medications) it entails, and how natural solutions offer a much healthier, safe alternative to this pharmaceutical approach that you’re essentially roped into for life.
In the midst of a media frenzy that paints Ozempic as a groundbreaking solution to weight loss, critical facts about the drug's side effects remain conspicuously absent from public discourse and ignored by practitioners all too happy to profiteer on the drug regardless of the harm it can do. They absolve themselves of any culpability in potentially ruining a person’s life, by putting the onus on the patient’s decision to administer the drug that is seen as nothing short of a miracle. Little do they know they’re courting disaster.
The relentless promotion of this so-called "miracle drug" obscures the reality that nearly half of its users quit within the first six months due to severe gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea and vomiting, along with other adverse effects. Meanwhile, reports on the long-term health risks and the tendency for users to regain lost weight upon discontinuation are buried beneath waves of sensationalized marketing that BIG PHARMA has deep enough pockets to pay for.
This deliberate suppression of key information raises important questions about the true cost of Ozempic and the ethical implications of promoting a drug with such significant drawbacks which is why I had to write this article for my clients and website subscribers.
The Blockbuster Rise of Ozempic
Ozempic (semaglutide) has swept the globe, gaining fame as a “miracle” weight-loss drug with the potential to become the most profitable pharmaceutical in history. With projected annual sales potentially reaching $100 billion, the injectable has transformed into a social media sensation, inspiring hashtags, headlines, and celebrity endorsements ad nauseum (pun intended - as it’s one of the most prominent side effects).
Initially developed as a Type 2 diabetes medication, its significant weight loss effects have catapulted it into the spotlight as the latest weapon in the fight against obesity. But what does Ozempic truly offer, and what might it be hiding beneath the thin veneer and behind the facade of all this fanfare?
While its meteoric rise in popularity caters to a society eager for quick fixes in pill form, the dangerous, unscrutinized adoption of rapid weight loss methodologies, has driven many to embrace Ozempic, which Calley Means describes as “liquid anorexia,” due to its interference in nutrient absorption, effectively starving the body. For those who can afford it, the drug is seen as the "path of least resistance" to shedding pounds quickly, despite significant concerns regarding its impact on health. The reality behind Ozempic involves countless hidden dangers, questionable long-term impacts, and systemic issues affecting our healthcare system, medicaid, and even the health of the economy.
Yep, I actually just said “the economy.” Buckle Up! Fasten your seatbelts!! And strap yourself in!!! That’s not hyperbolé. I’ll explain.
Questionable Alliances & Disingenuous Motives
It should be noted right up front, Ozempic is a lifelong drug, that is now being pushed on children as young as 6 years old struggling with obesity, thus the insane profits that BIG PHARMA will rake in over the lifetime of its users. And the drug companies are receiving vast support from Congress, who is considering a new bill, the “Treat and Reduce Obesity Act” (TROA) which is a bipartisan legislative effort aimed at expanding Medicaid and Medicare coverage for obesity treatments and has widespread support with over 150 co-sponsors from both parties.
I wish I could believe this is a benevolent act, compassionately written with the hope of earnestly addressing a debilitating health issue of people who really need help, but it is important to understand 80% of the recipients of Medicaid are elderly people who struggle with obesity. The other recipients of Medicaid are low income families. This bill, in passing, will allow the makers of Ozempic eligible for targeting children as young as 6 years old.
The minute this bill is signed, $1600 of taxpayer money will go to each patient per month to cover the cost of Ozempic, thus why the article started with Ozempic having huge implications on the American economy. There’s a legal term for this kind of activity . . . for any lawyers reading this, you know what this is called, and it’s imminently corrupt.
In fact, Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical company and the maker of Ozempic, is expecting 90% of their profits to come from this bill’s passing. - Calley Means (Joe Rogan Podcast).
To give weight to this, understand, the bill (created for Medicaid and Medicare recipients) only covers/supports pharmaceutical drug intervention. It does not allocate any money to explore, support, or even hope to facilitate other strategies like making regenerative, healthy foods more accessible to the already impoverished, or incentivize exercise and fitness, stress management, counseling, or anything else.
Before considering Ozempic as a solution for excessive weight, it’s important to know, the percentage of patients discontinuing Ozempic (and similar GLP-1 medications like Wegovy) within the first six months due to side effects or other issues is significant. Recent studies show that 47% of patients (in contrast to the clinical trials, stating only a 3 - 4% discontinuance) stopped using these medications within six months, with the drop-off rate increasing over time. This rate reflects factors such as gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, vomiting), high costs, and in some cases, the patients achieving short-term weight loss goals without a long-term continuation plan. These findings are based on data pulled directly from insurance claims and independent studies, highlighting that many individuals struggle to maintain adherence due to these issues (Everyday Health, Drugs.com).
This figure aligns with concerns about the sustainability and long-term efficacy of using such medications for weight loss. Many patients discontinue once they face side effects or when they realize that weight tends to return if the medication is stopped.
In addition, the package insert warns of metabolic issues and advises against going off the drug, ostensibly suggesting it’s required to take it for life.
How Ozempic Works:
Understanding the Mechanism
Glucagon is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels, working in opposition to insulin (which delivers sugar/glucose to cells). When blood sugar drops too low, glucagon signals the liver to release stored glucose (called glycogen) into the bloodstream to produce new glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, ensuring a steady supply of energy for the mitochondria in our cells, which in turn produce more energy with it. It can also stimulate fat breakdown for energy when needed. Glucagon is critical during fasting or intense physical activity to prevent hypoglycemia. Clinically, glucagon is used in emergencies to treat dangerously low blood sugar, particularly in individuals with diabetes, which is what Ozempic was approved for.
Ozempic belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists, which functions by mimicking (as a synalogue - synthetic analogue of) the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone in the body. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, enhancing insulin release in response to high blood sugar while reducing the release of glucagon during times when it is unnecessary, such as after a meal making people feel full for an increased period of time.
GLP-1 is responsible for several key physiological processes:
Appetite Regulation: It acts on the brain to increase satiety (feeling full) quicker, reduce appetite, and promote a sense of fullness.
Blood Sugar Control: It helps regulate blood glucose by increasing insulin release from the pancreas and reducing glucose production in the liver, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels and lowers the risk of complications from diabetes.
Gastric Emptying Delay: This refers to the process where the stomach's emptying rate is slowed, allowing food to stay in the stomach for a longer period before passing into the intestines. This prolonged retention of food creates a sensation of fullness, or satiety, which can be beneficial for appetite control and weight management. When food remains in the stomach longer, it suppresses hunger signals, thereby reducing the frequency of cravings and lowering overall calorie consumption. This mechanism is particularly helpful for individuals aiming to manage their weight or reduce overeating, as the sustained feeling of satiety helps them maintain portion control and avoid snacking between meals.
It is these appetite-regulating and satiety-inducing effects that have propelled Ozempic into the weight loss spotlight - completely overshadowing its therapeutic potential with diabetes. In clinical studies, individuals using the drug experienced weight loss of 10-15% of their body weight, a substantial change for those classified as overweight or obese. (Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, JAMA)
All good news! Sound great! Right?
However, these results come with a catch. The way Ozempic works impacts not just appetite but the entire metabolic system, which can lead to a complex array of side effects and potential dangers. Let’s pull back the curtain on these . . .
Ozempic’s Side Effects and Dangers:
The Dark Side of a Quick Fix
While Ozempic’s weight-loss effects have been highly praise and promulgated, many users experience side effects ranging from mild discomfort to serious health complications. These include:
Gastric Delay Complications:
While gastric emptying delay can be beneficial for satiety and appetite control, it can also pose certain health risks and discomforts, particularly if the delay is significant or prolonged. Some potential dangers include:
Stomach paralysis: Also known as gastroparesis, has been reported as a rare but serious side effect of Ozempic (semaglutide). Some patients have experienced this condition, which slows or stops the movement of food from the stomach to the intestines, leading to symptoms like vomiting and nausea. With the stomach's motility severely impaired, this can lead to chronic digestive issues, poor nutrient absorption, and significant gastrointestinal discomfort, often requiring medical management.
The U.S. FDA has received reports of this side effect, but it is not yet clear whether Ozempic is the direct cause or if the condition is related to other factors like diabetes (ASRN).Nausea, Vomiting, & Diarrhea: These constitute the majority of the adverse reactions users experience. Up to 40% of users report gastrointestinal issues, especially during the early phases of treatment. Nausea is common and can lead to significant discomfort or even food aversion in many. (Wikipedia)
Constipation, Bloating, and Abdominal Pain: The slow movement of food can lead to gas buildup and bloating, resulting in abdominal discomfort and pain, which can be particularly distressing after meals.
Malnutrition and Nutrient Deficiencies: Arguably the most obscured effect of the drug, and the most detrimental to one’s health. Ozempic dramatically interferes with nutrient absorption, essentially starving the body. If the Gastric Emptying Delay is severe, it may interfere with proper digestion and absorption of nutrients, leading to potential deficiencies. This is especially concerning if certain nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, are not efficiently absorbed as a result of the slowed gastric process.
Blood Sugar Regulation Issues: For individuals with diabetes or other metabolic disorders, delayed gastric emptying can impact blood sugar control. The slow release of food into the intestines can cause unpredictable spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, making it more challenging to manage glucose effectively.
Bacterial Overgrowth: Prolonged retention of food in the stomach creates an ideal environment for bacterial overgrowth, leading to infections or gut dysbiosis, which can further impair digestion and overall gut health.
Poor Quality of Life: The cumulative symptoms of delayed gastric emptying, such as frequent bloating, discomfort, irregular bowel movements, and nutritional challenges, can significantly reduce an individual's quality of life, affecting their ability to eat comfortably and maintain a balanced diet.
Potentially Serious Health Risks:
Pancreatitis & Gallbladder Issues: Ozempic can cause pancreatitis, which is a severe inflammation of the pancreas. It can also lead to gallbladder problems, including gallstones, likely due to changes in the digestive process. Patients experiencing symptoms like upper abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting should seek medical attention as these could indicate pancreatitis or gallbladder issues (Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center).
Thyroid Tumors: Animal studies have shown that semaglutide and similar GLP-1 receptor agonists may increase the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma. Although the link in humans is not fully proven, this risk has led to a boxed warning in the drug's labeling (Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center).
Kidney Injury & Dehydration: Vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration are known side effects of Ozempic, which can lead to acute kidney injury or worsen pre-existing kidney conditions. It is essential for patients to stay hydrated, and they should contact their healthcare provider if they experience persistent gastrointestinal issues (Mayo Clinic).
Impact on Mental and Emotional Well-being:
Anxiety & Depression: Although not fully understood, some users have reported increased anxiety and depressive symptoms while on Ozempic. This could be linked to changes in blood sugar, gut-brain interactions, or the psychological burden of being on a chronic medication.
Rapid Weight Loss Consequences:
While Ozempic is effective for weight loss, it is important to recognize that not all weight lost is purely fat. A significant portion of the weight lost can be lean muscle mass, which poses several challenges and potential health risks:
Lean Muscle Loss and Metabolic Slowdown:
Muscle vs. Fat: When losing weight rapidly through pharmacological interventions like Ozempic, there is a significant risk of losing lean muscle mass along with fat. Muscle tissue is metabolically active and plays a crucial role in maintaining your basal metabolic rate (BMR). Research has shown that up to 40% of the total weight loss from medications like Ozempic comes from muscle mass. This is much higher than the expected muscle loss in typical weight loss programs, which is usually around 20%.
The loss of muscle mass can slow down metabolism, making it more difficult to maintain weight loss in the long term. Additionally, muscle is critical for overall health, as it supports strength, mobility, and metabolic efficiency. Losing too much muscle, especially without strength training or adequate protein intake, can lead to long-term negative effects on body composition and health
To mitigate this muscle loss, it is essential to combine Ozempic with strategies like resistance training and increasing protein intake, which can help preserve lean muscle during weight loss.
Reduced Caloric Burn: Muscle burns more calories at rest compared to fat. Losing muscle decreases the body's ability to burn calories efficiently, potentially leading to a plateau in weight loss or even rapid weight gain once the medication is discontinued. In other words, Ozempic is a dance with the devil. To maintain the weight loss, for many Ozempic is a lifelong commitment.
Risk of Weight Regain and "Yo-Yo" Dieting:
Higher Fat-to-Muscle Ratio: When rapid weight loss is accompanied by muscle loss, the body composition changes, potentially leading to a higher fat-to-muscle ratio. This condition makes it easier to regain weight as fat, rather than muscle, when normal eating patterns are resumed. In short, this drug is dangerous; throwing the body into a constant state of imbalance or loss of homeostasis. This disequilibrium leads to “dis-ease” in the body and eventually “disease.”
Cycle of Weight Fluctuation: Known as "yo-yo" dieting, repeated cycles of weight loss and gain may occur as individuals struggle to maintain weight without proper muscle mass to sustain a higher metabolic rate. This can also lead to further metabolic complications and increased cardiovascular risks over time when one considers our largely sedentary lifestyles. I encourage my readers to learn of the impact sitting has on our health, as I have written about this. SITTING YOUR WAY TO SICKNESS AND CHRONIC DISEASE
Preserving Muscle Mass:
Exercise and Resistance Training: To counter muscle loss while on weight loss medications like Ozempic, incorporating regular exercise, particularly resistance training, is absolutely critical. This helps maintain or even build lean muscle mass, contributing to better metabolic health and more sustainable weight loss.
Nutritional Considerations: Adequate protein intake is crucial to support muscle maintenance. A balanced diet that meets macro and micronutrient needs, along with guided weight loss practices, is essential for minimizing muscle loss while maximizing fat reduction.
Skin Sagging & Nutrient Deficiencies: Quick weight loss can lead to excess skin and may cause deficiencies in key nutrients due to rapid shifts in dietary habits and calorie intake.
Lifelong Dependency & Cost:
Addiction to the “Easy Fix”: Ozempic is not a cure but an ongoing management tool; stopping it often results in rapid weight regain. Many users may find themselves dependent on the medication for life, fostering a cycle where the underlying causes of obesity are never addressed.
Financial Strain: With costs around $900 to $1,300 per month without insurance coverage, long-term use can become financially burdensome for individuals and families, further straining healthcare systems.
Ozempic’s Economic & Societal Impact:
A Looming Healthcare Crisis?
As Ozempic continues to rise in popularity, its widespread use may have profound implications for healthcare costs and resource allocation. If millions of people turn to this medication as a “permanent” weight-loss solution, the burden on insurance providers, healthcare systems, and patients could be enormous. Furthermore, encouraging children and adolescents to use such medications, which has become mainstream, raises questions about the long-term health impacts, the normalization of pharmaceutical dependence, and the potential to overlook foundational health principles and completely “NATURAL” and very healthy ways to address weight loss methodically. But in a society that wants everything now, and in a pill, requiring as little to no effort as possible, truly guiding people to optimal health, in a structured way, is a tough sell.
By placing the focus on pharmaceutical interventions instead of lifestyle and dietary changes, there is a risk of overshadowing natural approaches that can achieve similar or even better long-term health outcomes.
A Natural Approach to Obesity: Sustainable, Whole-Body Health
The appeal of Ozempic lies in its promise of easy weight loss, but addressing obesity is a complex issue and requires more than suppressing hunger or altering metabolic hormones. A whole-body, natural approach can lead to sustainable weight loss, improved health outcomes, and freedom from medication dependence. Here are some key natural strategies:
Whole-Food Nutrition Focus:
An anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense diet that eliminates ultra-processed foods and refined sugars will work what most would consider miracles, and yet, it does. Focus on whole foods like leafy greens, colorful vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats (e.g., avocados, olive oil).
Incorporate naturally occurring fibers (from vegetables, fruits, and legumes) to promote fullness, stabilize blood sugar, and enhance digestive health without the need for medication.
Balanced Blood Sugar & Metabolic Health:
Food Sequencing: Food sequencing is the practice of eating foods in a specific order to optimize digestion, blood sugar regulation, and nutrient absorption. By consuming high-fiber vegetables first, followed by protein and fats, and finishing with carbohydrates, food sequencing slows down the release of glucose into the bloodstream, reducing spikes in blood sugar and insulin. This approach not only enhances satiety but also supports gut health by allowing digestive enzymes to process different food groups efficiently. Over time, food sequencing can help improve metabolic health, aid weight management, and provide a sustained energy boost, making it a practical strategy for overall wellness.
Low-Glycemic Eating Patterns: Stabilize blood sugar levels by opting for foods with a low glycemic index, such as nuts, seeds, legumes, and berries. This prevents insulin spikes and keeps energy levels steady, reducing hunger and cravings. Also food sequencing and walking 20 minutes after large meals helps to prevent insulin resistance and weight gain.
Timed Eating & Intermittent Fasting: Consider time-restricted eating or intermittent fasting to help improve insulin sensitivity, regulate hunger hormones (ghrelin and leptin), and enhance fat metabolism. I have written about this in other articles on the website and teach all this, including the suggested strategies below in the SHIFT ETHOS WELLNESS PATHWAYS process.
Optimized Hormone & Gut Health:
Lifestyle Interventions for Hormone Balance: Chronic stress, poor sleep, and sedentary lifestyles contribute to hormonal imbalances, including elevated cortisol and disrupted hunger signals. Prioritize consistent sleep routines, regular physical activity, and stress-reduction techniques (meditation, mindfulness) to improve metabolic health.
Gut Health Focus: A balanced gut microbiome plays a significant role in metabolism and weight regulation. Include probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi) and prebiotics (onions, garlic, bananas) to support digestive health naturally.
Mindful Movement & Strength Building:
Walking: Taking a walk after a large meal is a simple yet powerful way to support digestion and stabilize blood sugar levels. Gentle movement encourages blood flow to the digestive tract, helping break down food more effectively and preventing the sluggishness that often follows a heavy meal. Plus, even a short post-meal walk can enhance mood and energy, leaving you feeling refreshed instead of weighed down.
Daily Movement: Aiming for daily activity, such as walking, yoga, or resistance training, can promote fat loss, improve cardiovascular health, and boost muscle mass.
Muscle Preservation Through Strength Training: Incorporating weight or resistance exercises helps maintain lean muscle mass, which is crucial for metabolism and sustainable weight loss.
Behavioral & Mental Health Strategies:
Mindful Eating Practices: Practice mindful eating by being aware of hunger cues, savoring meals, and avoiding distractions during meals. This prevents overeating and promotes a healthier relationship with food.
Addressing Emotional & Stress Eating: Identifying triggers for emotional eating and developing coping mechanisms that don’t involve food can foster long-term, sustainable weight management.
A Balanced, Sustainable Future: Rethinking the Path to Health
While Ozempic may offer rapid results, it’s essential to weigh these short-term gains against potential health risks, dependency on the drug for life, and financial burdens. Sustainable, whole-body approaches that emphasize nutrition, lifestyle, and mental well-being can achieve meaningful and long-lasting weight management without the risks associated with pharmaceuticals.
By focusing on natural, holistic methods, we can cultivate a healthier society that not only addresses the root causes of obesity but also promotes true well-being, resilience, and freedom from medication dependency.
Ultimately, the choice is between a quick fix and a lifelong foundation for health. A natural approach, rooted in sustainable lifestyle changes, is not only more cost-effective but also empowers individuals to reclaim their health and wellness without the hidden dangers and societal costs of pharmaceutical reliance.
I would love to hear from you and have you share your thoughts and/or questions in the comment section below. I look forward to hearing your perspectives.
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I want to personally invite you to explore the SHIFT ETHOS WELLNESS PATHWAYS PROCESS (Tab at the top of this page or link provided below) – a journey back to true health. Dive deeper into these essential elements and experience a comprehensive approach to wellness by enrolling in this revitalizing process, transforming your life, and embracing a healthier you!
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References:
1. Understanding How Ozempic Works
Mayo Clinic: Provides a comprehensive overview of Ozempic (semaglutide), including how the drug works, its indications, and its impact on weight loss and blood sugar regulation.
Mayo Clinic - Semaglutide (Ozempic)Cleveland Clinic: Offers insights into GLP-1 receptor agonists and their role in regulating appetite, blood sugar, and gastric emptying.
Cleveland ClinicJAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association): Contains clinical studies on the efficacy of semaglutide for weight loss and its impact on obesity-related conditions.
JAMA Network
2. Reports of Stomach Paralysis and Gastrointestinal Side Effects
American Society of Registered Nurses (ASRN): Highlights patient reports of severe gastrointestinal side effects, including gastroparesis (stomach paralysis), as rare but serious potential side effects of Ozempic.
'I Wish I Never Touched It': Ozempic Users Report Stomach ParalysisWikipedia – Semaglutide: Provides an overview of semaglutide and details the prevalence of gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea among users.
Wikipedia - Semaglutide
3. Serious Health Risks: Pancreatitis, Gallbladder Issues, Thyroid Tumors, and Kidney Injury
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Discusses the risks of pancreatitis and gallbladder problems, as well as the potential risk of thyroid tumors associated with semaglutide use.
Semaglutide – Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterMayo Clinic: Highlights the risks of kidney injury and dehydration associated with semaglutide, especially for patients experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. Provides guidance for maintaining hydration and seeking medical attention if necessary.
Mayo Clinic – Semaglutide Risks
4. Clinical Evidence for Rapid Weight Loss and Its Impacts
JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association): Presents clinical evidence of semaglutide’s impact on weight loss, noting both its efficacy and the accompanying reduction in lean muscle mass, which has implications for metabolic health.
JAMA Network
5. Mental and Emotional Well-being and Risk of Anxiety & Depression
Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic: Both sources discuss the broader impacts of Ozempic on mental health, emphasizing potential emotional and psychological changes like anxiety or depression, possibly linked to blood sugar fluctuations and the psychological burden of chronic medication use.
Mayo Clinic
Cleveland Clinic
6. Whole-Body, Natural Approaches to Weight Management
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK): Offers guidance on balanced nutrition, physical activity, and healthy eating patterns to promote sustainable weight loss without the use of pharmaceuticals.
NIDDK – Weight Management
Disclaimer:
I am not a medical doctor or a medical practitioner. I am not legally permitted to claim I treat, cure, or heal disease. I can, however, provide educational content with respect to building/restoring and maintaining optimal health through nutrition, diet, sleep support, and exercise, which can reverse health conditions.Any information provided on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this web site.This website summarizes information on the role of nutrition, diet, and exercise in health, disease and wellness. Readers should be aware that knowledge of nutrition and medicine is constantly evolving. They are encouraged to frequently check the most current information available on preventive and therapeutic measures. It is your designated clinician’s responsibility, relying on their experience and knowledge of the patient, to determine the best course of action in providing care and your choice to follow it or not. The author, editor, and publisher of information on this website accepts no liability for any injury arising out of the use of material contained herein, and makes no warranty, express or implied, with respect to the contents of this online publication, or from the contents of sites or articles we provide links to. 