Over the years, there have been a variety of anti-diabetic medications on the market. None, however, have caused such demand as Semaglutide, popularly known by its brand name Ozempic. Semaglutide is a fairly new anti-diabetic medication, having been approved by the FDA for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes in 2017. The reason for such demand lies in the off-label use for weight loss under the name Wegovy. Although many people are seeing fairly quick weight loss results, we are unsure of the long-term side effects of using this medication for such a purpose.
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a subcutaneous medication which simply means it is administered under the skin. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. This means that it mimics a specific hormone in the gastrointestinal tract that is produced when you are eating. This hormone already naturally tells the body to produce insulin. The GLP-1 receptor agonists make the body produce extra insulin which helps lower the blood sugar level. More research is needed to figure out how exactly this all correlates to weight loss, however, some of the side effects include:
Some of the side effects are seen with prolonged use, such as vitamin deficiency and hair loss. The hair loss may be related to vitamin deficiency however it is still unknown. It is suspected to be related to the decrease in protein caused by decreased food intake. Protein is extremely important in building and repairing cells in the body. Decreased levels of protein in the body can lead to muscle wasting and hair loss. It is best to see a doctor follow you through your weight loss journey with this medication to monitor important labs/tests to prevent any possible future issues. Visit Medscape or download the Medscape app if you'd like to learn more about these side effects/adverse reactions, Some important tests to monitor include vitamin D, A1C, triglycerides, fasting blood glucose, and kidney function tests.
Natural Options For Weight Loss
Diet: the easiest way to keep a healthy diet is to remember “crowding out.” This is the act of adding whole foods to your diet. This leaves less room for processed foods over time and causes them to “crowd out.”
Increasing lean protein intake and decreasing processed foods and carbs. Try Carb blocker-5 to help your body enter a ketosis metabolic state thus helping regulate blood sugar levels. You can also try Blood Sugar Support to promote healthy glucose metabolism.
Increasing dark, leafy greens intake such as kale, collard greens, spinach, chard, broccoli. You can also aid your digestive system by adding a Digestive Enzyme Blend as well as Shape Shift Drops to help with hormonal imbalance. Supplements like these will help support your healthy lifestyle for longevity and results.
Increasing healthy fats such as avocados, olive oil, almond butter, nuts, seeds
Increasing healthy grain and fiber intake such as lentils, beans, quinoa
Increasing water intake!
Incorporating vitamins and minerals into your daily regime such as vitamin D3, and multivitamins like The Good Stuff will help the organs in your body perform as it was intended.
Increase your energy, especially at the beginning of your journey, with Brain Brew Nootropic Coffee Infusion. This will help you start your day with the energy to endure even your toughest day.
Getting good sleep! Try the Slumber Gummies and Magnesium supplements from Frontline Defense to achieve a deep level of sleep and speed up your health journey. Sleep is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. With more restful nights, you will have the energy to implement the healthy habits listed above!
Important labs to monitor include:
Vitamin D
Iron
VitaminB12
Calcium
Hemoglobin A1C
Albumin
Magnesium
Exercise: make sure to incorporate at least 30 minutes of exercise per day x 5 days per week to increase muscle tone and decrease body fat. You can also help get movement in your day by modifying simple routines. For example, you can take the stairs instead of the elevator at work.
Intermittent fasting: regulating your eating schedule can have several positive effects on your body most importantly to most, weight loss. Also, keep in mind to replenish your body while intermittent fasting. Try supplements like (blood sugar support/ chromium?)
All in all, it is important to maintain a healthy weight. There are many options out there to help, but make sure to remember the core, natural habits that can keep you healthy: diet, exercise, and rest. Also, be sure to consult your doctor before beginning any treatment to reduce the risk of adverse side effects.
References
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