The world has gone Ozempic crazy! It’s the weight-loss drug that’s taken social media by storm, promising dramatic results and leaving many women tempted. We know countless women are accessing it online or at private clinics, often being less than truthful on those medical forms.
From celebrities to friends, it feels like everyone is taking it, and many are lying about it, which speaks volumes about the pressures women face to conform to a certain body image.
Why is this happening?
Society bombards women with images of thinness as the ideal form of beauty, it’s been happening for decades. This can lead to body dissatisfaction and a desperate desire to achieve that often unattainable standard, even if it means taking shortcuts.
We also live in a world which is obsessed with instant results. This makes it tempting to seek a magic pill solution for weight loss rather than focusing on long-term lifestyle changes.
Social media fuels this, adding to our feelings of inadequacy and the pressure to look a certain way. Seeing others seemingly effortlessly achieve a “perfect” body can lead to comparisons and a sense of urgency to keep up.
Many women internalise these societal messages about weight and appearance, leading to self-criticism and a belief that their worth is tied to their body size.
To compound this, there’s often a lack of focus on holistic health and well-being. This can leave women feeling like they need to take drastic measures to achieve their goals, especially when they lack support or resources for sustainable lifestyle changes.
It’s important to remember that these pressures are systemic. By shedding light on these issues, we can encourage a more compassionate and holistic approach to health and well-being—one that prioritises long-term health and self-acceptance over quick fixes.
What are the official prescription parameters for Ozempic and how are women getting around them?
Parameter 1 – Type 2 Diabetes: To improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, along with diet and exercise.
Parameter 2 – Weight Management: Primarily for adults with a BMI of 30 or greater (obese), or 27 or greater (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.
So why are so many women taking the drug who don’t fit into these parameters?
Many online pharmacies and private clinics rely solely on self-reported information, making it easier for women to provide inaccurate details or exaggerate their weight or health conditions on applications to qualify for Ozempic. Shockingly, some healthcare providers are prescribing Ozempic for weight loss even when they know patients don’t meet the approved parameters – as long as they can pay.
What are the side effects?
While Ozempic does lead to weight loss, it comes with side effects. You may have heard about the common short-term side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. But we don’t yet fully understand the long-term effects of Ozempic when used for weight loss because it hasn’t been available long enough.
Medical Professionals have listed many potential longer term side effects including:
- Gallbladder disease
- Pancreatitis
- Thyroid cancer
- Kidney problems
- Hypoglycemia
- Vision problems
- Nutrient deficiencies
The Effect on Longevity
The side effects which aren’t discussed enough, that we are very concerned about are the loss of both muscle mass and bone density. Strong muscles and bones are essential for mobility, strength, and overall vitality as we age.
While rapid weight loss might seem appealing, it’s crucial to remember that sacrificing these vital components of health can actually speed up aging and negatively impact your long-term well-being. Retaining muscle mass throughout our life is one of the best predictors of healthy longevity.
Dr. Peter Attia, a world authority on longevity, has commented that about 2/3 of the weight lost using Ozempic is muscle mass. So you might weigh less on the scale, but you could actually be losing more muscle than fat.
What can you do if you are already taking Ozempic?
If you are taking Ozempic, it’s crucial to remain active, specifically with strength training and to increase the protein content in your diet. In addition, the longer you take the drug, the more it will damage your future health span. Ozempic is not a long-term fix and if you continue the negative lifestyle habits that contributed to the weight gain, you will regain the weight when you decide to come off it. Having a plan to minimise your time on the drug is essential.
A Holistic Approach
At BioAge UK, we champion a more holistic approach to health and wellness. Our programs are designed to help you achieve sustainable weight management without compromising your muscle mass or bone density. We guide you toward a balanced lifestyle that prioritises nutrition, exercise, and healthy habits so you can feel vibrant, energetic, and resilient for years to come. Because true health isn’t just about the number on the scale; it’s about building a foundation for a long, active, and fulfilling life.
Conclusion
If you’re considering Ozempic or are already taking it, it’s crucial to have an open and honest conversation with your doctor who has your full medical history. Discuss the potential risks, the impact on your muscle mass and bone density and whether it truly aligns with your long-term health goals.
Health isn’t just about the number on the scale; it’s about building a foundation for a long, active, and fulfilling life. Prioritise nourishing your body with balanced nutrition, regular exercise (especially strength training!), and stress management techniques. These are the pillars of sustainable weight management and vibrant aging.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Embrace your body’s unique journey and focus on building a lifestyle that supports your overall health and well-being.
Stay Tuned!
If you are taking Ozempic or a similar weight loss drug, make sure you are signed up to our newsletter and social media channels because something new is coming soon!