Skip to content
Healthy Body
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@celebwell.com.

7 Surprising Truths About Male Baldness I Discovered After Shaving My Head

A nutritionist's personal journey reveals shocking insights about hair loss.

Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 10, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Derek_Simnett6
Copyright Simnett Nutrition/YouTube
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 10, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Healthy Body

Hair loss is a journey many men dread, yet it's one that countless individuals face as they age. For Derek Simnett, a 40-year-old Certified Nutritional Practitioner specializing in vegan nutrition, the decision to shave his head led to unexpected revelations about male baldness. His experience, combined with research and expert opinions, sheds light on this common yet often misunderstood condition. Here are surprising truths about male baldness that Simnett uncovered during his journey.

Male Baldness Is Becoming More Common, Especially in Younger Men

Simnett's initial suspicion that more men are experiencing hair loss these days wasn't just in his head. Leonora Doclis, senior trichologist at The Belgravia Centre, confirms this trend: "I'd say at least 3 in 5 of our clients are in their early 20s. The statistics indicate that the average age that a man starts to experience hair loss is declining, and the number of those affected is growing."

This aligns with what Simnett found in his research. "By the time men hit 30 years old, 25 to 30% will experience some hair loss, and by the time Caucasian men hit 50 years old, over one-half of them are going to experience hair loss," he discovered. The American Hair Loss Association provides even more stark numbers, stating that by age 35, two-thirds of American men will experience noticeable hair loss.

It's Not Just About Genetics

While Simnett learned that genetics play a significant role in male pattern baldness, he was surprised to find that other factors contribute as well. "It's actually how sensitive your hair follicles are to DHT," he explains. DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is converted from testosterone and can cause hair follicles to shrink in genetically predisposed individuals.

However, the American Hair Loss Association points out that while "Androgenetic alopecia, also known as common male pattern baldness (MPB), is responsible for over 95% of hair loss in men," other factors are at play too.

Stress Is a Major Hair Loss Culprit

One of the most surprising discoveries for Simnett was the significant role stress plays in hair loss. Hair replacement specialists note, "Information gathered from young adults shows that higher levels of stress are actually found in younger generations when compared to older ones. This connection between age and stress can be magnified when issues are caused by loneliness, isolation, and feeling the need to maintain hair in the most popular styles."

RELATED:I Lost 30 Pounds and Kept It Off and Here are 13 Habits That Changed My Life

Diet Matters More Than You Think

As a nutritionist, Simnett was particularly intrigued by the dietary factors affecting hair loss. "Soy has been attributed to hair growth in a number of studies. It seems that the phytoestrogens in them are able to bind to the DHT, not allowing it to affect the sensitive hair follicles," he found in his research.

Experts also point out that nutritional deficiencies in zinc, iron, vitamin D, and protein have all been found to cause thinning hair. This underscores the importance of a well-balanced diet, regardless of dietary preferences.

Environmental Factors May Be Contributing to Hair Loss

In his investigation, Simnett stumbled upon a surprising potential cause of hair loss: "I also started to wonder if it isn't some environmental factors like our increased exposure to microplastics and BPAs that aren't causing an increase in hair loss in younger people." While more research is needed, there's growing concern about how our modern environment affects our health, including our hair.

RELATED:Gillian Ferguson Flaunts Tiny Waist and Reveals 3 Things That Will “Speed Up Fat Loss” That You Probably Aren’t Doing

The Science Behind DHT and Hair Loss

During his research, Simnett delved deeper into the biological mechanisms of hair loss. He learned that DHT (dihydrotestosterone) plays a crucial role. "It's actually how sensitive your hair follicles are to DHT," he explains. "Testosterone converts to DHT through an enzyme called alpha-five reductase. And when DHT is high, and our hair follicles are genetically predisposed to being sensitive to DHT, what happens is they start to shrink, the hair gets thinner and finer and eventually that hair follicle will die, and the hair falls out."

This understanding opened his eyes to why some treatments work, and others don't. It's all about managing DHT levels or reducing hair follicle sensitivity to DHT.

Natural Remedies Can Be Effective

Simnett also discovered some natural DHT inhibitors during his research. "Stinging nettle is one of them, and fenugreek seeds are another," he found. These natural options provide alternatives for those looking to address hair loss without resorting to pharmaceutical treatments.

The Creatine Conundrum

As someone who has used creatine supplements in the past, Simnett was particularly interested in its potential effects on hair loss. "There was one study that came out that showed that creatine supplementation does increase DHT production in males," he discovered. However, the evidence isn't conclusive, and more research is needed.

His advice? "If you're taking creatine and you feel like it might be causing some hair loss, well then just stop taking it. I don't think that's a worthwhile side effect to go through just for some extra muscles or recovery."

RELATED:14 Walking Mistakes Sabotaging Your Weight Loss That Experts Urge You to Stop

Lifestyle Factors That Affect Hair Health

Throughout his journey, Simnett realized that overall lifestyle plays a significant role in hair health. As one source explains, "Lifestyle-related or oxidative stress is also known to cause male pattern baldness in young men. Starting university, regular lack of sleep and extreme exercise regimes all strain the body causing detrimental effects on the hair cycle growth."

He found that simple habits can make a difference. "Not smoking, not being too stressed out, getting good sleeping habits, making sure you're eating enough protein, that sort of stuff," are all important factors in maintaining hair health.

The Practical Side of Going Bald

After making the decision to shave his head, Simnett quickly learned about the practical aspects of maintaining a bald look. "It does take quite a bit of upkeep, and this is something that has taken some getting used to," he admits. He found that investing in the right tools makes a big difference. "I went and bought this thing off of Amazon, and this is specific for shaving your head, and it has actually been so good. It makes it really quick and easy, and it actually sucks up all the hair into the head of it so it doesn't go all over the bathroom."

RELATED: Trish Koeslag Pops the Lid on 2 “Dieting Myths” That Kept Her From Losing 15 Pounds

Embracing Baldness Can Be Empowering

Perhaps the most surprising truth Simnett discovered was how empowering it can be to embrace baldness. After shaving his head, he experienced an unexpected boost in confidence. "I definitely feel more confident, keep my head up a little higher and my chest higher. And it sort of just feels like, 'Hey world, this is me. I've got nothing to hide here I am,'" he realized.

For those considering taking the plunge, Simnett received this advice that he now passes on: "If I can give you some advice as a bald guy to someone who's kind of thinking about shaving their head and he's not happy with their hair anymore, he said, just do it. He's like, I guarantee you're going to like it and you can always grow it back if you don't." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss40 Health Symptoms That Can Be More Serious Than You Think.

proteinsupplementswalkingweight loss

More For You

Healthy Body

7 Surprising Truths About Male Baldness I Discovered After Shaving My Head

Derek_Simnett6
Copyright Simnett Nutrition/YouTube
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 10, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Hair loss is a journey many men dread, yet it's one that countless individuals face as they age. For Derek Simnett, a 40-year-old Certified Nutritional Practitioner specializing in vegan nutrition, the decision to shave his head led to unexpected revelations about male baldness. His experience, combined with research and expert opinions, sheds light on this common yet often misunderstood condition. Here are surprising truths about male baldness that Simnett uncovered during his journey.

Male Baldness Is Becoming More Common, Especially in Younger Men

Simnett's initial suspicion that more men are experiencing hair loss these days wasn't just in his head. Leonora Doclis, senior trichologist at The Belgravia Centre, confirms this trend: "I'd say at least 3 in 5 of our clients are in their early 20s. The statistics indicate that the average age that a man starts to experience hair loss is declining, and the number of those affected is growing."

This aligns with what Simnett found in his research. "By the time men hit 30 years old, 25 to 30% will experience some hair loss, and by the time Caucasian men hit 50 years old, over one-half of them are going to experience hair loss," he discovered. The American Hair Loss Association provides even more stark numbers, stating that by age 35, two-thirds of American men will experience noticeable hair loss.

It's Not Just About Genetics

While Simnett learned that genetics play a significant role in male pattern baldness, he was surprised to find that other factors contribute as well. "It's actually how sensitive your hair follicles are to DHT," he explains. DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is converted from testosterone and can cause hair follicles to shrink in genetically predisposed individuals.

However, the American Hair Loss Association points out that while "Androgenetic alopecia, also known as common male pattern baldness (MPB), is responsible for over 95% of hair loss in men," other factors are at play too.

Stress Is a Major Hair Loss Culprit

One of the most surprising discoveries for Simnett was the significant role stress plays in hair loss. Hair replacement specialists note, "Information gathered from young adults shows that higher levels of stress are actually found in younger generations when compared to older ones. This connection between age and stress can be magnified when issues are caused by loneliness, isolation, and feeling the need to maintain hair in the most popular styles."

RELATED:I Lost 30 Pounds and Kept It Off and Here are 13 Habits That Changed My Life

Diet Matters More Than You Think

As a nutritionist, Simnett was particularly intrigued by the dietary factors affecting hair loss. "Soy has been attributed to hair growth in a number of studies. It seems that the phytoestrogens in them are able to bind to the DHT, not allowing it to affect the sensitive hair follicles," he found in his research.

Experts also point out that nutritional deficiencies in zinc, iron, vitamin D, and protein have all been found to cause thinning hair. This underscores the importance of a well-balanced diet, regardless of dietary preferences.

Environmental Factors May Be Contributing to Hair Loss

In his investigation, Simnett stumbled upon a surprising potential cause of hair loss: "I also started to wonder if it isn't some environmental factors like our increased exposure to microplastics and BPAs that aren't causing an increase in hair loss in younger people." While more research is needed, there's growing concern about how our modern environment affects our health, including our hair.

RELATED:Gillian Ferguson Flaunts Tiny Waist and Reveals 3 Things That Will “Speed Up Fat Loss” That You Probably Aren’t Doing

The Science Behind DHT and Hair Loss

During his research, Simnett delved deeper into the biological mechanisms of hair loss. He learned that DHT (dihydrotestosterone) plays a crucial role. "It's actually how sensitive your hair follicles are to DHT," he explains. "Testosterone converts to DHT through an enzyme called alpha-five reductase. And when DHT is high, and our hair follicles are genetically predisposed to being sensitive to DHT, what happens is they start to shrink, the hair gets thinner and finer and eventually that hair follicle will die, and the hair falls out."

This understanding opened his eyes to why some treatments work, and others don't. It's all about managing DHT levels or reducing hair follicle sensitivity to DHT.

Natural Remedies Can Be Effective

Simnett also discovered some natural DHT inhibitors during his research. "Stinging nettle is one of them, and fenugreek seeds are another," he found. These natural options provide alternatives for those looking to address hair loss without resorting to pharmaceutical treatments.

The Creatine Conundrum

As someone who has used creatine supplements in the past, Simnett was particularly interested in its potential effects on hair loss. "There was one study that came out that showed that creatine supplementation does increase DHT production in males," he discovered. However, the evidence isn't conclusive, and more research is needed.

His advice? "If you're taking creatine and you feel like it might be causing some hair loss, well then just stop taking it. I don't think that's a worthwhile side effect to go through just for some extra muscles or recovery."

RELATED:14 Walking Mistakes Sabotaging Your Weight Loss That Experts Urge You to Stop

Lifestyle Factors That Affect Hair Health

Throughout his journey, Simnett realized that overall lifestyle plays a significant role in hair health. As one source explains, "Lifestyle-related or oxidative stress is also known to cause male pattern baldness in young men. Starting university, regular lack of sleep and extreme exercise regimes all strain the body causing detrimental effects on the hair cycle growth."

He found that simple habits can make a difference. "Not smoking, not being too stressed out, getting good sleeping habits, making sure you're eating enough protein, that sort of stuff," are all important factors in maintaining hair health.

The Practical Side of Going Bald

After making the decision to shave his head, Simnett quickly learned about the practical aspects of maintaining a bald look. "It does take quite a bit of upkeep, and this is something that has taken some getting used to," he admits. He found that investing in the right tools makes a big difference. "I went and bought this thing off of Amazon, and this is specific for shaving your head, and it has actually been so good. It makes it really quick and easy, and it actually sucks up all the hair into the head of it so it doesn't go all over the bathroom."

RELATED: Trish Koeslag Pops the Lid on 2 “Dieting Myths” That Kept Her From Losing 15 Pounds

Embracing Baldness Can Be Empowering

Perhaps the most surprising truth Simnett discovered was how empowering it can be to embrace baldness. After shaving his head, he experienced an unexpected boost in confidence. "I definitely feel more confident, keep my head up a little higher and my chest higher. And it sort of just feels like, 'Hey world, this is me. I've got nothing to hide here I am,'" he realized.

For those considering taking the plunge, Simnett received this advice that he now passes on: "If I can give you some advice as a bald guy to someone who's kind of thinking about shaving their head and he's not happy with their hair anymore, he said, just do it. He's like, I guarantee you're going to like it and you can always grow it back if you don't." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss40 Health Symptoms That Can Be More Serious Than You Think.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Hairstyles That Can Actually Worsen Thinning Hair

Fashion,Model,Posing,In,Studio,,Beautiful,Girl,Hair,Gathered,In
Shutterstock
Ferozan Mast
By Ferozan MastApr 18, 2024
Ferozan Mast
Writer
Ferozan Mast is a science, health and wellness writer with a passion for making science and research-backed information accessible to a general audience.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Thinning hair can cause a lot of stress (and stress can cause thinning hair, which is a terrible chicken-and-egg situation). Whether your hair is thinning because of genetics or from lifestyle factors (for example postpartum hair loss, overly processed hair) certain hairstyles can unfortunately make it worse. Luckily there are ways to disguise hair loss while hair is improving—here are five looks to avoid at all costs if you want to repair and restore your thinning hair.

Tight Ponytails

Rear view of woman runner tying her hair and getting ready for another run outdoorsShutterstock

Tight ponytails can put a lot of stress on hair and cause breakage. “Every once in a while, it’s OK to wear your hair tightly pulled back, but you want to avoid wearing a tightly pulled hairstyle every day,” says the American Academy of Dermatology. “The constant pulling can cause strands of your hair to break or fall out. In time, the continuous pulling can damage your hair follicles. If you damage your hair follicles, your hair cannot grow back, so you develop permanent hair loss.”

RELATED: I Lost my First 25 Pounds by Walking

Wet Buns

happy young woman with hair bun looking away while taking bathShutterstock

Wet buns can cause breakage to already thinning hair, exacerbating the problem. "When you tie your hair back it stretches up to a third of its length causing tension breakage," stylist Rob Reeves tells Vidal Sassoon Australia. “So make sure it’s pretty dry before putting it up. You might want to rethink that wet hair bun next time. Certainly not an option for anyone with fine fragile hair. And don’t sleep with wet hair – again it will cause tangles and breakage and stretch your hair.”

Hair That’s Too Long

Beauty young girl outdoors enjoying natureShutterstock

Having a long style can make thinning hair worse, experts say. “In general, if you have finer hair, don't grow it too long,” hairstylist Neil Moodie tells Harper’s Bazaar. “The longer it gets, the weaker the hair gets and so it can tend to look lank, straggly and not healthy. Instead, focus on creating layers within shorter styles, to get a bit more height. I wouldn't recommend really short layers though because they can highlight the fineness of the hair.”

Tight Braids and Weaves

hair professional, tattooed beauty worker holding braids of female client in salon, beauty industry, salon job, customer in salon, hairdresser, salon services, hair make overShutterstock

Tight braids and weaves may cause an irreversible baldness called Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA). “Traction alopecia (baldness) is caused by chronic traction (pulling) on the hair follicle and is seen most commonly in African-American females associated with tight braiding or cornrow hair styles,” according to Michigan State University’s Women’s Health Research Institute. “It is generally present along the hairline. Men who attach hairpieces to their existing hair can experience this type of permanent hair loss if the hairpiece is attached in the same location over a long period of time.”

Related: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

Middle Parts

beaufiful glossy hair parted in the middleShutterstock

If you have thinning hair, the middle part is unfortunately not your friend as it accentuates the hair loss. “With a middle part your hair tends to frame the entire expanse of your face. Middle parts therefore make a round face appear even rounder,” according to Schwarzkopf. “They are also decidedly unhelpful if you like to hide some lines or wrinkles around the eyes and on your forehead. Wavy or curly hair looks great with a middle part, while straight and thin hair tends to look stringy rather than sleek.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you have fine or thinning hair, avoid excessively long styles, which can make it appear limp and unhealthy. Instead, opt for shorter, layered cuts to create volume and movement.

Nutrition & Diet

I Lost 81 Pounds in a Year and This is What Changed in My Body

Caroline_carolineefitness25
carolineefitness25/TikTok
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJun 14, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Sometimes, people focus so much on losing weight that they don’t even think about what happens after. Caroline Mabeus (@carolineefitness25) is a social media influencer and weight loss warrior who has lost over 80 pounds “naturally,” sharing her health journey with her hundreds of thousands of followers. “I lost 81 pounds in one year. And I'm gonna tell you things that happen when you lose 81 pounds that nobody tells you,” she says at the start of the TikTok clip.

You Will Look Like a Different Person

@carolineefitness25

What its like to lose 81 lbs #weightloss #howtoloseweight #weightlossmotivation #highprotein #weightlosstiktok #fatlosstips #caloriedeficit #portioncontrol #fitness #fittok #100lbsdown #weightlossprogress #fatlosstips #fitness #losingweight #weightlosstransformation

“First of all, nobody tells you you're gonna look like a totally different person,” Caroline reveals. “The amount of people that tell me that they don't recognize me now at 118 pounds versus 200 pounds is insane.”

You Will Have Loose Skin

Close-up Of A Woman Holding Arm With Excess Fat On Grey BackgroundShutterstock

“You cannot control the loose skin. You're gonna get loose skin. It's inevitable,” Caroline continues. “I don't have a ton, but you can't beat yourself up about it because you can't change it. There is nothing you can do to prevent it.”

You Will Gain Confidence

@carolineefitness25

Dont ever give up ❤️ #weightlosscheck #howtoloseweight #weightlosstiktok #fittok #100lbsdown #caloriedeficit #intermittentfasting #tipsforweightloss #weightloss #weightlossprogress #80lbsdown #weightlosstransformation #glowupchallenge #watchmeloseweight #losingweight #weightlosschallenge #weightlosscheck

“I'm the most confident I've ever been,” Carolina says. “It doesn't mean I don't have loose skin, it doesn't mean I have a perfect body, but weight loss has given me confidence that I didn't even know existed.”

Your Voice Will Change

Close up woman recording voice message, speaking, young female holding phone in hand near face, chatting with friends online or speakerphone, activating digital assistant on smartphoneShutterstock

“My voice is completely different, less breathy,” Caroline says. She adds that she isn’t out of breath like she used to be “when I walk up and down the stairs.”

Your Breasts Might Be Saggy

Closeup cropped portrait young woman with breast pain touching chest, selective focusShutterstock

“Shaving my armpits is weird,” she says, noting that they “go in,” she says. “My tits are saggy, and that's okay. They're literally the majority of my loose skin.”

You Will See Parts of Your Body You Never Saw

Woman, stomach and hand with heart in outdoor for exercise, diet, fitness and closeup. Female tummy, gut health and self love for wellness and training in the summer for healthy workout outside.Shutterstock

“Being able to see” part of your body you never saw is game-changing, she says. “Having a stomach in the way and never being able to be the weirdest thing in the entire world.”

RELATED: 15 Proven Strategies to Drop 2 Pounds a Week with Minimal Effort

You Will Fit Into Small Clothes

top view sport wear concept with Gym Outfit, running shoes, smartphone, Sport Sweatband and sport run accessories on black wooden background.Shutterstock

A great change? Going clothes shopping. “It will never get old,” she reveals. “Trying on small clothes and having them fit you.”

People Will “Hate On You”

Overweight unhappy asian woman extra heavy body cellulite sitting on bed at home. Upset oversized lady worry diet weight loss suffering from extra weight. Obesity unhealthily concept.Shutterstock

“You're gonna get so much love and so much support on your weight loss journey, but you will also have people who are gonna hate on you,” she continues. “People are gonna hate on you at your heaviest, and they're gonna hate on you after you succeed and lose the weight too.”

Your Skin Might Break Out

You also might experience skin problems. “My hormones are balancing, and I have acne. See that bad boy right there? Yeah,” she says. Body temperature fluctuations are also likely, according to Caroline. “I'm cold 24/7,” she reveals in the clip.

RELATED: 8 Steps I Used to Stop Sugar Addiction and Drop 30 Pounds

It Might Hurt to Sit

Young woman touching her kidney in pain.Shutterstock

It might hurt to sit, she continues. “I can feel my tailbone when I sit,” she says. “It scared me the first time I felt it because I have never felt it.”

You Will Notice “Random Bones”

Chain with a ring on the chest of a beautiful girlShutterstock

“Same thing with collarbone and random bones,” Caroline says. “I'm like, what is that? Is that supposed to be there? Yes, it is. It's your bone.”

You Will “Glow and Thrive”

Happy woman holding hands up to the sun at dawn. Freedom and spirituality concept.Shutterstock

Caroline adds that there are so many mental health benefits. “You are going to glow and thrive and be so happy, and you're going to be so grateful for the journey,” she says.

However, You Will Also Experience Negativity

Caroline admits that “it's going to be hard,” she says. “It's hard at my lowest weight. Even now, when dealing with some of the comments people have to say, telling me that I'm too skinny or that I looked better before,” she explains.

RELATED: 15 Simple Tricks to Shed 10 Pounds Every Month Without Strict Dieting

You Will Be Happier Than Ever

Young woman throwing snow in the air at sunny winter day, back viewShutterstock

“I still have bad days, and I'm still, you know, trying to get to know this new body,” Caroline admits. There are times I don't recognize myself. But most importantly, I've never been as happy or as confident as I am now.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

I Tried the Viral 12-3-30 Workout for 21 Days: Here's My Love-Hate Honest Review

Beatrice Caruso
Copyright Beatrice Caruso/YouTube
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabSep 18, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Have you ever procrastinated on starting a fitness challenge, only to find yourself haunted by the thought of it? Meet Beatrice Caruso, a weight loss warrior who knows this struggle all too well. With her disarming blend of humor and honesty, Beatrice takes us on a journey through her experience with the viral 12-3-30 treadmill workout. From calf-cramping woes to unexpected knee discoveries, Beatrice's candid account invites readers to laugh, learn, and perhaps find the motivation to tackle their own fitness goals. Keep reading to follow Beatrice's three-week adventure and discover whether this trendy workout lives up to the hype.

What Is 12-3-30?

Beatrice explains, "Lauren Giraldo is a YouTuber. She typically does kind of lifestyle vlogs, and a while ago she went through a body transformation. She wanted to get healthier, she wanted to get more fit, but I don't want to tell her story and everything. I think she says it best and her video. Highly recommend. love her. As she was going through this body transformation, she came up with this challenge and it's a pretty straightforward concept and a lot of people started doing it. You just walk on a treadmill at a pace of three incline of 12 for 30 minutes, and in her video she said she did that five to six times a week."

My First Day: A Rude Awakening

"That is not easy, dude. … Oh man. I'm not conditioned for that kind of cardio anymore," Beatrice recounts. "For the past little while before this, I've just been walking on the treadmill. Nothing wrong with that, but walking uphill, it's such a steep climb. I don't know. 12 is steep. I'm not going to lie. Dying a little bit, very sweaty, very hot."

The Calf Conundrum

"I'm just going to let you know right now that walking at an incline of 12 is a special kind of [he-e-double-hockey-sticks]. It wouldn't be so bad. For the most part, my respiratory system has caught up. It doesn't feel as terrible on my lungs. However, my calves just keep getting tighter and tighter and I don't really know what to do about it," Beatrice shares.

RELATED:5 Fake Superfoods to Avoid and 5 Real Ones to Try

My Theory on Tight Calves

Beatrice theorizes, "When I was younger, I used to walk on my tiptoes everywhere. For years I would just be walking around in my tiptoes. So the equivalent of wearing heels in your developmental years. So I think that because when you're on your tiptoes, this is going to be a bad example, but when you're on your tiptoes, your calf is always contracted and then the front muscles extended how muscles work. But I have this theory that my calf muscle never fully lengthened."

The Unexpected Knee Discovery

"As I was trying to find interesting camera angles to make the monotony of the treadmill the slightest bit more interesting for you guys, I noticed something about my knees. It looked like baby heads, do they not? It looks like I was supposed to be triplets in the womb and I absorbed my siblings straight into my knee holes and they're just there now forever. Try to unsee it. I dare you," Beatrice humorously observes.

RELATED:I Lost 50 Pounds in 8 Months by Walking Every Day

My Calves Were Killing Me

"I didn't like it... I didn't like this challenge. For me personally, my calves killed me the entire time I was making up in the middle of the night with muscle spasms in my calves, which yeah, I would not have survived without rest days," Beatrice confesses. "And me saying that I didn't like the challenge is in no way, shape or form any kind of shade toward Lauren. She's absolutely amazing."

The Results

Beatrice shares her results: "When I began, I weighed in at 230.3 pounds and at the end of the 21 days, I now weigh 224.5 pounds. That means I lost 5.8 pounds during this challenge. Here are my beginning and ending measurements, and as you can see, I kind of lost everywhere on my body with the most loss coming from around my abdomen. Very happy about the two inches lost around my belly."

What I Saw in the Mirror

"So here we have the before and after pictures. I'm not seeing too much of a change, maybe in my face a little bit and maybe in my stomach, but otherwise, these look pretty identical," Beatrice notes. "And then we get to the side view, which is where I see the weight loss. Pretty significant change in my stomach. I'm very bloated in this one. I felt bloated that day. My double chin's kind of poking through. You can't really see it in this one because my shoulder's in the way, but it's a little less. But my definitely went down."

RELATED:I Tried Wegovy for a Year and Here's Why I'm Never Going Back

Closing Thoughts

Beatrice concludes, "Ultimately just happy in general for completing the challenge, getting it out of the way. Another box checked and now we can focus on other things, hopefully more enjoyable things. Hopefully not like me having a petty beef with a challenge, you know what I mean? Hopefully it's something that I want to do, but I digress." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

10 Side Effects of Rapid Weight Loss

Woman looking in the mirror and checking her hair.
Shutterstock
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMay 13, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Losing weight fast can seem like a dream come true. However, there are some negatives that come along with rapid weight loss you should consider before taking a GLP-1 drug like Ozempic or going on a drastic diet. We asked some of the top doctors, plastic surgeons, and weight loss experts to reveal major side effects of rapid weight loss – via either the natural way or using weight loss drugs – to look out for.

Fat Deposits

Pen,Injection,Semaglutide,Ozempic, diabetes, medicine, medication, diet, weight, lossShutterstock

While losing weight reduces overall body fat, deposits still exist. “Treatments like Ozempic help with rapid weight loss, but fat still exists in a reduced size,” Vishal Verma, MD, Founder of Revive Med Spa, says, recommending treatments like CoolSculpting to help “eliminate the fat cells, furthering the long-term results.”

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Uneven Skin Tone or Texture

Portrait of a man worried about hair lossShutterstock

There is also the appearance of uneven skin tone/texture with weight loss. “Stretch marks may become more apparent with weight loss, so resurfacing treatments can help even tone and texture for a more youthful, radiant glow,” says Dr. Verma. “

Hair Loss

Woman's hand holding hair strands fallen on a comb in close-upShutterstock

Hair loss can be a potential side effect of rapid weight loss. This is often due to nutrient deficiencies, stress, and hormonal changes that occur when the body loses weight quickly.

RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

Unplanned Pregnancies are Being Examined

Flat,Belly,Expecting,Baby,pregnant,diet,healthShutterstock

Losing weight can impact fertility. "Weight loss can generally be associated with increased fertility by restoring normal ovulation in people who have PCOS or other causes of abnormal cycles," said Dr. Daniel Drucker, a professor and researcher at the University of Toronto's Mount Sinai Hospital and a pioneer of research into GLP-1 in an interview with CNN.

Ileus

woman clutching her stomach with her hands in discomfortShutterstock

Ileus, “which is a temporary condition where your intestine can't push food and waste out of your body, is an unofficial side effect due to the effects of slowing down the gut movement,” says Kylie Bensley, MS, RD and founder of Sulinu Nutrition. If you think you have this, she recommends seeking medical advice.

Muscle Loss

Bearded thin man measuring biceps, muscles of his left arm with a yellow tape measure. He's calm, serious, quiet. Wearing blue t-shirt. White background.Shutterstock

Sue Decotiis, MD, NYC weight-loss doctor, notes that there are a few reasons why rapidly losing weight leads to muscle loss. “There are many people who lose muscle because they aren’t drinking enough water. Water intake is imperative. You really need to drink a lot of water when you’re burning that much fat. If you are not drinking enough water, your body won’t burn fat, and you’ll lose muscle,” she says. The other reason is losing weight rapidly, which often leads to losing muscle. To mitigate this, make sure to lift weights or do another form of muscle-strengthening exercise.

RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

More Self-Esteem

Happy couple enjoy outdoor leisure activity together carrying and using a bike and laughing a lot. Love and friendship with mature man and woman in youthful lifestyle. Concept of joyful and excitementShutterstock

A positive side effect? “I’ve seen a lot of positive effects on personality in my practice. When people lose weight, they have better self-esteem, and they feel more confident in their own skin,” says Dr. Decotiis. “I have people who were using sedatives for anxiety or depression, and then when they lost weight, they felt better and didn’t need them as much. My patient who has ADHD felt they had better focus and concentration.”

Eating Disorder Triggering

,Woman,,Guilty,Eating,Cake,Cheating,Diet,eating, disorderShutterstock

If you have eating disorders in your history, rapidly losing weight can be triggering. “If there’s a history of an eating disorder, that’s when people can run into some problems. People who used food as a crutch and would go to food for comfort may miss food a lot because they used to get that dopamine hit from using food to make them feel better,” explains Dr. Decotiis. She recommends anyone who has struggled with these sorts of issues to work with a therapist while losing weight.

Decreased Libido

Beautiful young couple in bedroom. Close up of male and female feet under the blanket looking away from each other.Shutterstock

Losing weight might impact your sex drive. “In the beginning, realize there’s a tremendous metabolic change going on in the body that can cause fatigue, and when someone is tired, their libido goes down. As time goes on and you lose more weight and feel better, libido will go back to normal because you’ll feel more confident and better without clothes on,” says Dr. Decotiis.

RELATED: 20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss

Saggy Skin

Close-up Of A Woman Holding Arm With Excess Fat On Grey BackgroundShutterstock

According to Dr. Decotiis, some people are complaining about having a saggy butt, face, or loose skin after rapidly losing weight, which has to do with fat loss. “Your skin stretches when you gain weight, so when you lose a lot of weight, sometimes your skin doesn’t fully go back to normal,” she says. “Think of a woman who’s pregnant. When she has a baby, sometimes her stomach takes time to go back to how it was before.” One way to mitigate this effect is by weight training during the weight loss process. “Additionally, as you age, you have less elasticity in your skin, and you cannot produce as much collagen. Your skin bounces back better when you’re younger,” she says.

💪🔥Body Booster: After losing weight fast, make sure to lift weights or do another form of muscle-strengthening exercise to avoid losing muscle.

Nutrition & Diet

116-Pound Ozempic Weight Loss: 7 Key Mistakes

Brittany Ainsworth britts_getting_fit_
She Lost 115 Pounds on Ozempic After Experiencing These 8 Surprising Side Effects
Copyright britts_getting_fit_/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 08, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Are you standing in your own way of losing weight on a GLP-1 weight loss drug? Brittany Ainsworth is a weight loss warrior who has dropped 116 pounds on a weight loss drug. In a new social media post, she reveals a few mistakes people make while on them, which prevent them from losing weight. “7 surefire ways to derail your Ozempic/Mounjaro, GLP-1 journey. Speaking from experience as someone down 116 pounds on one so far.”

Overeating

If you are eating the same amount of food while on a weight loss drug, it will prevent you from dropping pounds. “Relying solely on Ozempic while continuing to overeat with the assumption that the medication will handle everything can seriously stall your progress,” she says.

Skipping Meals

Alternately, if you miss meals, it will have repercussions. “Skipping meals or drastically undereating may seem like a shortcut to faster weight loss, but it can actually slow your metabolism and leave you feeling fatigued and unmotivated,” she says.

Not Exercising

Failing to exercise is another common mistake. “Avoiding regular physical activity limits the overall effectiveness of Ozempic, as exercise plays a crucial role in weight management and metabolic health,” she writes.

Not Following Directions

Make sure to follow directions. “Disregarding our healthcare provider’s instructions—such as skipping doses, missing follow-ups, or adjusting the medication on your own—can lead to poor results and unwanted side effects,” she adds.

Not Eating the Right Food

Not eating healthy food can also derail your progress. “Consuming too many processed or high-sugar foods can overwhelm your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar and diminish the appetite-control benefits of Ozempic,” she says.

Drinking Alcohol

You might want to put down the botte. “Drinking alcohol excessively not only affects blood sugar balance but can also lead to impulsive eating and poor dietary decisions,” she says.

Not Being Patient

The last way to derail your weight loss experience? “Expecting instant results from Ozempic can set you up for disappointment, making it more tempting to quit before the medication has had time to work effectively,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Nutrition & Diet

9 Foods That Trigger the Ozempic Effect Naturally, According to a Nutrition Coach

Dr. Becky Gillaspy
7 Tips for Losing Weight After Age 50
Copyright Dr. Becky Gillaspy/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMay 08, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

In recent years, Ozempic has become one of the most talked-about weight loss solutions on the market. While effective, it comes with a hefty price tag and potential side effects that many find uncomfortable. But what if you could trigger similar weight-loss benefits naturally through your diet? Dr. Becky Gillaspy, with over 24 years of experience teaching college courses from Anatomy to Nutrition and certified as a health and wellness coach, offers a compelling alternative. Read on to discover how specific foods can naturally boost the same hormone that Ozempic mimics—without the injections or side effects.

Understanding How Ozempic Works

Ozempic works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone in your body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), Dr. Becky explains in her post. "GLP-1 is a hormone naturally produced in your small intestine in response to food intake," she notes. This important hormone helps bring down your blood sugar after meals and increases feelings of fullness. By acting as what scientists call an "agonist," Ozempic essentially tricks your body into thinking there's more GLP-1 present than there actually is.


RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Requesting Ozempic for Weight Loss

Your Body Already Makes This Weight-Loss Hormone

Eating and drinking image of a young woman eating mixed nuts​Metabolic ImprovementsShutterstock

The good news is that your body naturally produces GLP-1 after you eat, according to Dr. Becky. "Its responsibility is to help bring your blood sugar level back down after the meal and ensure you feel full," she explains. This means you can strategically choose foods that enhance your body's natural GLP-1 production. The hormone offers three key benefits: it triggers a robust insulin response, slows digestion, and increases fullness—all contributing to better blood sugar control and weight management.

Start Your Day With Yogurt

Healthy Greek yogurt bowl with fresh berry​Breakfast Bowls: Berry Yogurt Power BowlShutterstock

Beginning your day with yogurt can naturally boost your GLP-1 levels, Dr. Becky advises. "The prebiotics and probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt can enhance gut health by influencing the gut microbiota, which plays a role in GLP-1 secretion," she says. As a fermented food containing both protein and calcium, yogurt offers a powerful combination for stimulating this important hormone. The protein triggers GLP-1 release as your body metabolizes amino acids, while calcium enhances this process for an even stronger effect.

Choose Your Yogurt Wisely

Greek,Yogurt,I,Bowl,Spoons,food,dairy,dietEating Too Little at a Time​Shutterstock

When selecting yogurt at the grocery store, Dr. Becky recommends avoiding low-fat varieties with added sugar. "Added sugar spikes your blood sugar," she cautions. Instead, opt for unsweetened Greek yogurt (higher in protein) or regular yogurt (higher in calcium). Either way, you're getting the benefits of fermentation plus that powerful protein-calcium combination. For flavor without the sugar spike, add berries to your yogurt for natural sweetness and additional health benefits.


RELATED: 5 Things to Know Before Taking a GLP-1 Drug, According to a Nurse Who Takes It

Boost Your Breakfast With Berries

Fresh Berries at the Farmers Market​BerriesShutterstock

Adding berries to your morning yogurt doesn't just make it taste better—it actually enhances its GLP-1-boosting effects. "By stirring in some sweetness in the berries, you boost the meal's polyphenol content, giving yourself a third GLP-1 advantage," explains Dr. Becky. Polyphenols are beneficial compounds that give colorful plants their vibrant hues, and they positively influence gut microbiota, supporting GLP-1 production. This is why eating a "rainbow" of foods each day can be so beneficial for your health and weight management goals.

Don't Forget Your Daily Coffee or Tea

Woman drinking coffee in the sun, outdoor in sunlight light, enjoying her morning coffee.​CoffeeShutterstock

Good news for coffee and tea lovers—these beverages contain polyphenols that can help boost GLP-1 production. "Polyphenols are also found in coffee and green tea, so feel free to enjoy a cup or two with your yogurt," Dr. Becky suggests. This means your morning ritual might already be supporting your natural weight management efforts. The polyphenols in these beverages work similarly to those in colorful fruits and vegetables, positively affecting your gut microbiome and enhancing GLP-1 secretion.

Make a Daily Salad Your Secret Weapon

Woman, diet and person eating salad in her home kitchen and is happy for a meal with nutrition or healthy lunch. Smile, food and young female vegan in her apartment or house and eat vegetablesChoosing Salad Over Steak​Shutterstock

A daily salad is one of the most powerful tools in your natural GLP-1-boosting arsenal, according to Dr. Becky. "Non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and tomatoes are going to build on your polyphenol intake for the day and also provide fiber," she explains. This fiber not only slows digestion but also feeds beneficial gut bacteria, which produce short-chain fatty acids that stimulate GLP-1 release. Plus, the volume of vegetables physically stretches your stomach, activating receptors that signal fullness to your brain.

Top Your Salad Strategically

Healthy Salad - spinach baby leaves and boiled eggs cut in a half on wooden table.Shutterstock

The toppings you choose for your salad can significantly enhance its GLP-1-boosting power. "Load up your salad with protein and healthy fats such as meat, salmon, cheese, hard-boiled eggs, avocados, nuts, seeds, and an olive oil-based dressing," recommends Dr. Becky. While she's already discussed the benefits of protein for GLP-1 production, healthy fats provide additional advantages. These fats stimulate the secretion of cholecystokinin, a hormone that slows stomach emptying and enhances digestion, keeping you fuller longer.

Design Your Dinner for Sustained Fullness

Farmer woman holding wooden box full of fresh raw vegetables. Basket with vegetable (cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, radish, corn, garlic and peppers) in the hands.​Fundamental 3: Prioritize Whole FoodsShutterstock

To maintain elevated GLP-1 levels throughout the evening, Dr. Becky suggests structuring your dinner around non-starchy vegetables and protein. "Serve a healthy portion of non-starchy vegetables alongside a protein-rich entree like meat, chicken, or fish," she advises. This combination creates a meal that digests slowly, producing a steady blood sugar response that helps you avoid evening snacking. Including healthy cooking fats like butter, avocado oil, or high-quality olive oil adds to the meal's satisfaction factor.

Why Timing Matters for GLP-1 Production

Smart watch on the woman's hand​It's Now Part Of My LifeShutterstock

The timing of your meals can impact your natural GLP-1 production and weight loss results. "Eating too close to bedtime elevates blood sugar and insulin overnight, blocking fat loss," warns Dr. Becky. This means that allowing several hours between your dinner and bedtime can enhance your body's natural fat-burning potential. A well-timed, GLP-1-promoting dinner helps you move comfortably through the evening without the urge to snack, supporting your weight management goals even while you sleep.

The Mediterranean Keto Connection

Food products representing the Mediterranean diet which may improve overall health status​Natural Booster #7: Mediterranean DietShutterstock

Many of the GLP-1-boosting foods highlighted by Dr. Becky come from the Mediterranean Keto approach. "The foods I highlighted in this video are from my Mediterranean Keto Cookbook," she mentions. This eating style emphasizes fermented foods, protein paired with calcium, polyphenol-rich plants, fiber, and healthy fats—all key nutrients for enhancing your body's natural GLP-1 production. By following this approach, you can experience improved hunger satisfaction while potentially achieving similar benefits to GLP-1 medications without the cost or side effects.


RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Simple Daily Habits for Natural Weight Control

Young,Woman,Eating,Salad,Organic,Vegetables,happy,eating,food​Track MacrosShutterstock

Dr. Becky recommends incorporating her "0123 strategy" into your daily routine for enhanced weight management. This approach outlines four daily habits that support weight loss naturally, including the daily salad she discussed for GLP-1 production. By focusing on these simple, sustainable practices rather than restrictive dieting, you can create an eating pattern that naturally enhances your body's GLP-1 production. These habits work with your body's natural systems rather than fighting against them, making weight management more comfortable and sustainable. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 225 Pounds with Mounjaro and Reveals the Truth About GLP-1 Meds

Carolin Tyler RNY carolin_rny
Copyright carolin_rny/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMay 08, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Weight loss journeys rarely follow a straight path. Carolyn (@carolyrny) knows this firsthand, having lost an impressive 225 pounds through a combination of gastric bypass surgery and GLP-1 medication. At 28 years old and standing 5'7", she's transformed from 401.6 pounds to 125 pounds today. "I totally, totally altered my whole life when I had gastric bypass surgery," Carolyn shares. Through her YouTube channel, she documents her health journey to help others facing similar challenges. Discover the unfiltered reality of GLP-1 medications that most doctors won't tell you about.

Your First Steps With GLP-1 Medications

"I started Monjaro back in September of 2022. I had heard about it that summer," Carolyn explains in her post. Her timing proved fortunate: "I was very lucky and downloaded the savings coupon in August of 2022, when the terms and conditions were still allowing people to get the medication when it wasn't covered by insurance at only $25 a month."

Like most patients, she began at the lowest dose. "I started at the lowest dose, 2.5 milligrams, and I was on that dose for just one month. That's the loading dose. It's kind of a way for your body to get adjusted to the medication." For medical supervision, Carolyn chose a virtual option: "I use the Weight Watchers Clinic. I have used them from the start with my GLP-1 medication journey."

Finding Your Ideal Dosage

"I moved up to the five milligram dose. And I was at five milligrams, I wanna say for three or four months," Carolyn shares. Her experience at this level was positive: "I had really, really great results with five milligram. And had it not been for the medication shortages at the time, I think I would have stayed and should have stayed at the five milligram, just because I was losing."

She emphasizes an important principle: "If you're still losing at a good rate, you really shouldn't need to go up in dose." Unfortunately, circumstances forced changes: "Because of the shortages and the mess that that was, I had to move up to the 7.5 dose because that was what was available."

Navigating Medication Shortages and Insurance Hurdles

"The savings card ran out in June of 2023, but I had started sort of stockpiling, and I was only taking the medication every two weeks," Carolyn reveals. The timeline became complicated: "In September of 2023, somehow my insurance covered Monjaro without a prior authorization. And I was able to get a three-month supply."

This didn't last: "The beginning of this year in 2024, I started, you know, I needed a prior authorization for Monjaro. And I ran out of the medication at the end of December." Persistence eventually paid off: "I put in prior authorizations for Monjaro, Saxenda, Trulicity, Ozempic, Wigovi, and they were all denied. I finally was able to get Ozempic."

Later came better news: "ZepBound, which is the same medication as Monjaro, it's just FDA approved for weight loss... I have a prior authorization approval for ZepBound until January of next year, which is great."

Managing Potential Side Effects

"Initially starting out the medication, I experienced headaches and insomnia. Mainly insomnia with the five milligram dose," Carolyn reveals. The sleep disturbances were striking: "I would wake up at like three or four in the morning and feel wide awake. Wide awake. It was the craziest thing." Fortunately, this wasn't permanent: "But I think as I got used to being on the medication, that subsided and I don't experience insomnia anymore."

Other side effects varied by dosage: "I experienced the most amount of nausea on the 7.5 milligram dose. That for some reason, that dosage, I don't know. I just experienced nausea on it to the point where I asked my doctor for Zofran." Looking back, she considers herself fortunate: "I've been very, very lucky with side effects. And I know that's not the case for everyone."

Comparing Different GLP-1 Medications

When it comes to different GLP-1 options, Carolyn has clear preferences. "A lot of people ask me what I thought was more effective or what I liked better, Manjaro or Ozempic. And I preferred Manjaro," she states. She backs this with her understanding of research: "I think the studies show that terzapotide is much more an effective GLP-1 agonist. And I definitely experienced that."

Her experience switching medications wasn't ideal: "When I was on Ozempic for a few months earlier this year, my weight slowly, slowly started to creep up, which was very difficult. And it just felt like I was more inflamed and it felt like I was back in that place of struggling to keep my weight off." The difference was noticeable when she returned to her preferred medication: "Now back on terzapotide, I feel much better and I'm very happy about it to be on ZepBound for the next however long."

Tracking Your Results Realistically

"I started my GLP-1 journey at 230 pounds even. And today I'm sitting at 180. So I've lost a total of 50 pounds," Carolyn shares. She's experienced some fluctuation: "My lowest I've gotten down to is 175. I was 175 back in November of last year when I was taking the 12.5 milligram of Monjaro." Her upcoming wedding influenced recent choices: "I didn't wanna lose more because of my wedding dress."

She reflects on her current state: "I'm very happy here at 180. I think I look really good. I feel really good at this weight." Like many, she considers future goals: "I've always had in my head the number 170 to get down to, and I don't know, 170, 160, I don't know. I'm kind of in that like, do I attempt, do I try, or do I just kind of be happy where I am and focus on getting plastic surgery next year, hopefully."

Combining GLP-1 With Proper Nutrition

"I like to have a protein shake in the morning just to get in a good amount of protein before I start my day," Carolyn explains. She sees clear benefits from this approach: "It's really helped me on my GLP-1 journey because you really wanna focus on protein to build muscle. It helps so, so much, not only with maintaining your muscle mass, but also I've noticed it helps just make sure that I'm full a lot longer."

The strategic focus on protein serves multiple purposes: "By prioritizing protein, I'm less tempted to like grab, you know, sweet treats or things like that that don't always serve me best when I'm trying to lose weight." She emphasizes this nutrient above others: "My GLP-1 journey has been over the past almost two years, and I have really made sure to focus on protein. It's really the most important macronutrient when you're on a GLP-1 journey or a weight loss journey."

Building a Sustainable Exercise Routine

Even with medication, lifestyle changes remain crucial. "I still diet and exercise. I still am very mindful of my diet and I work out. And those things are very important to me," Carolyn emphasizes. She connects this to her broader transformation: "I totally, totally altered my whole life when I had gastric bypass surgery."

The medication doesn't replace these foundational habits: "Those things work hand in hand. It's not, you take this medication and the weight magically falls off, quite the, you have to put in the work. It's the same with bariatric surgery. It's only a tool. And the only way to work, to get it to work, is if you put in the work."

Planning for Pregnancy While on GLP-1

Family planning affects medication decisions. "We're getting married, and we are hoping to start having kids in about two or three years," Carolyn shares. This timeline shapes her GLP-1 strategy: "So over the next two or three years, I'm probably going to work my way down in dosage and figure out a good spot there, and then eventually come off of it completely to get pregnant. You can't be on it when you're pregnant."

She's practical about the future: "I am not opposed to getting back on it after having kids. If I need to, if I feel like I need to get back on it after kids, I will." This approach aligns with her understanding of obesity treatment: "I went into this knowing this was a long-term solution, that it was a long-term medication for maintenance, and I'm perfectly okay with that."

Treating Obesity as a Chronic Condition

"My obesity is a chronic illness, and these medications are revolutionary," Carolyn affirms. "They are truly, have changed the game when it comes to treating obesity." She compares this to other health conditions she manages: "I have other chronic illnesses. I have psoriasis that I take an injection for four times a year. I have hypothyroidism that I take medication for every single day."

This perspective shapes her approach to long-term treatment: "I went into this knowing this was a long-term solution, that it was a long-term medication for maintenance, and I'm perfectly okay with that. That doesn't bother me."

She sees GLP-1 medications as valuable additions to surgical options: "Bariatric surgery is still the number one treatment that we have with studies and stuff. You're going to lose the most amount of weight and keep it off with that. But these medications are such great adjunct treatments for people like me who never got down to the weight they wanted to, or who struggled to just stay where they are."

Creating Your Long-Term Maintenance Plan

Long-term planning is essential for sustained success. When asked about staying on medication, Carolyn explains: "Do I plan to stay on it long-term? Like, what are the long-term effects? Do you gain weight back? Statistically, you do gain some weight back if you go off of it, cold turkey, I think, but you're supposed to wean down and wean off of it."

She's already considering her future approach: "My plan, so we're getting married, and we are hoping to start having kids in about two or three years. So over the next two or three years, I'm probably going to work my way down in dosage and figure out a good spot there." She remains flexible about post-pregnancy treatment: "I am not opposed to getting back on it after having kids. If I need to, if I feel like I need to get back on it after kids, I will."

Addressing Access and Stigma Barriers

Broader issues affect many GLP-1 users. "The biggest issue we have is accessibility. Insurance coverage, which I have struggled with, and just being able to get them. There are so many shortages right now," Carolyn points out. She envisions positive change: "I hope that over time, in the next five years, I really hope we see a huge shift in how not only the accessibility, but also the stigma towards people who struggle with obesity and who live in larger bodies and who want help and who want to lose weight or want to be healthier."

This includes changing perceptions: "That that stigma changes from, well, they're just lazy and fat to, no, they have an illness, they have a disease that's preventing them from being compliant with the diet and exercise." Her enthusiasm for these medications is evident: "I'm a huge, huge advocate for these medications."

The Reality Check: GLP-1 Is a Tool, Not Magic

"It's not, you take this medication and the weight magically falls off, quite the, you have to put in the work," Carolyn emphasizes. She draws a parallel to bariatric surgery: "It's the same with bariatric surgery. It's only a tool. And the only way to work, to get it to work, is if you put in the work." Beyond physical changes, she values the mental benefits: "It has helped so much with the food noise to the point where I don't feel like I'm obsessing about food or feeling consumed by thoughts of it. It feels very manageable to live my life on a day-to-day basis."

For Carolyn, this psychological relief outweighs even the weight loss: "Honestly, if I never lost another pound, or if I never lost a pound to begin with, I would stay on this medication." Her perspective is both realistic and hopeful: "These medications are revolutionary. They are truly, have changed the game when it comes to treating obesity." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Copyright 2025 Galvanized Media. All Rights Reserved. Body Network is part of the Dotdash Meredith Publishing Family.