What is Ozempic? Is it safe for weight loss? Here’s why you should be informed before using it

Ozempic has recently come into the limelight, thanks in part to Maheep Kapoor, who introduced it to the public Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives Season 3Since then, people have been curious about this trending medicine and its weight loss potential. It is no surprise that many people are considering it as a way to reduce stubborn fat. But is Ozempic really a miracle solution for shedding those extra pounds, or is it just another quick-fix fad? We took an in-depth look at what Ozempic is, how it works, and whether it’s a safe option for weight loss.

Read also:10 Simple Diet Changes That Will Help You Lose Belly Fat Fast

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic, commonly known as semaglutide, was initially approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 to treat type 2 diabetes. According to US David Health, it is a weekly injectable drug that helps lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin production in the pancreas. Although this drug is not specifically approved for weight loss, many healthcare providers have begun prescribing it off-label for this purpose.

Interestingly, Ozempic’s mechanism of action is inspired by a hormone found in the saliva of the Gila monster, a venomous lizard native to the southwestern United States. Scientists discovered that the lizard’s saliva contains a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar by stimulating insulin production, slowing digestion and signaling the brain to feel full longer. This hormone inspired the development of Ozempic and similar drugs aimed at managing type 2 diabetes and in some cases aiding weight loss.

How does Ozempic work?

Ozempic works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which plays an important role in controlling blood sugar and appetite. When you inject Ozempic, it increases the levels of GLP-1 in your body, which causes several effects:

• Fullness signals: The hormone sends signals to your brain that you’re full, which reduces hunger and makes it easier to avoid overeating.
• Slows digestion: Ozempic slows the process by which food passes through your digestive system. It also prolongs the feeling of fullness after meals, making it easier to stick to a calorie-controlled diet.
• Improves insulin production: For people with type 2 diabetes, Ozempic helps control blood sugar by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin when needed.

It is important to note that weight loss is not the primary purpose of Ozempic – it is a secondary effect that occurs because the drug reduces appetite and delays stomach emptying. As the Cleveland Clinic notes, Ozempic is primarily prescribed to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Also read: Does drinking green tea make your stomach flat?

Include healthy foods in your daily diet to boost your weight loss journey.
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Is Ozempic safe for weight loss?

While Ozempic has been shown to have weight loss as a side effect, it is not without risks. According to the Cleveland Clinic, Ozempic may cause various gastrointestinal side effects due to its slowing effect on digestion. Some common side effects include:

• nausea and vomiting
• diarrhea or constipation
• bloating and increased gas
• stomach irritation

These problems usually subside as your body adjusts to the medication, but they can be bothersome in the short term. Additionally, some users complain of feeling tired or dizzy, especially when they first start using the drug.

It is important to emphasize that Ozempic is not intended to cause weight loss in individuals who do not have type 2 diabetes. Experts strongly recommend using the medication only under the supervision of a healthcare provider and usually as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan.

Also read: 5 Simple Ayurvedic Foods That Can Be The Key To Your Weight Loss Journey

Can you achieve the same weight loss goals without Ozempic?

Before jumping into an expensive Ozempic treatment plan, it’s worth considering natural ways to boost your body’s GLP-1 production without injections. Weight loss expert Jamie Moran suggests some simple lifestyle changes you can make to improve appetite control, manage appetite and promote weight loss. This way:

1. Protein-rich meals: Consuming 30 grams of protein at each meal can help slow digestion and naturally trigger GLP-1 release. Low-fat meat, eggs, legumes and dairy are excellent protein sources.
2. Fiber-rich foods: High-fiber foods, such as chia seeds, green leafy vegetables and sweet potatoes, can help delay stomach emptying and keep you feeling full longer. Fiber also supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
3. Healthy Fats: Including healthy fats in your diet, such as those found in olive oil, avocados and nuts, can mimic the fullness signals triggered by GLP-1, reducing cravings and increasing satiety. Can.
4. Sleep well: Poor sleep can disrupt your hunger hormones, especially GLP-1. Make sure you’re getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep every night to control your appetite and avoid late-night cravings.
5. Get regular exercise: Whether it’s a daily walk or a more intense workout, being active makes your body more sensitive to GLP-1. This means you’ll naturally feel full longer after a meal, reducing the chance of overeating or feeling hungry.

By focusing on these habits, you can naturally increase GLP-1 production in your body and reduce your dependence on medication.

Should you use Ozempic?

If you are considering Ozempic for weight loss, it is important to consider the pros and cons. While medication can certainly help some people lose weight, especially those with type 2 diabetes, it is not a miracle solution and has side effects. It is important to consult your healthcare provider before starting any weight loss treatment. Following a healthy, balanced diet is the key to effective and healthy weight loss.

(This content including advice provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for further details. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information .)