Ozempic and Insulin Regulation
Ozempic and the other drugs in its class were originally created to help with type II diabetes. They work by slowing down how quickly the stomach empties. They also increase insulin output from the pancreas (remember insulin is the key that opens the pathway to help sugar get out of the blood and into the cells where it can be used as energy). Both of these actions help to reduce blood sugar spikes which can aid in weight loss… even if insulin resistance is present without type 2 diabetes.
The downside of these drugs is that they also cause increased muscle breakdown (there is actually a term called the “Ozempic Face” which refers to the more aged or drawn appearance that can happen with rapid weight loss due to muscle loss) and have side effects like digestive symptoms, fatigue, and potentially more serious conditions like pancreatitis, kidney problems and gallbladder disease.
I believe that these drugs can potentially be beneficial for certain individuals where they haven’t been having success with other approaches, but I don’t believe they should be freely prescribed to everyone as an easy way to lose weight. Even in the cases where someone does make an informed choice to take them, support around optimal nutrition and strength training are essential to truly improve health.
Without that support, the weight loss that happens will result in significant muscle loss and lead to increased insulin resistance and worse health than where the person started. It also means that if the drug is stopped, it is very likely that the weight will come back and then some. I’d love to know if you have any questions or thoughts about this topic.
Regardless if you have insulin resistance or not, your body will function better if you eat and exercise in a way that keeps your insulin more stable. Balanced blood sugar will help you have more energy, less inflammation, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, better hormone balance AND it will help to fuel your metabolism. Who doesn’t want that?!? Most importantly, it will improve your health so that you can enjoy doing all that you want to in this stage of your life. Would you like some support to help you feel your best?!? Comment below and I’ll reach out!