I'm a Weight-Loss MD and This Is How to Naturally Mimic Ozempic Effects Without the Injection

Weight-loss medications are certainly having a moment. GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro bring many individuals much success, and the results can be completely life-changing. But many people aren't able to join this seemingly miraculous path because of medical, insurance, or financial reasons. Others simply prefer finding more natural approaches to achieving their goal.

We're here to help with information from Dr. Megan Horsham, MD, Medical Weight-Loss Doctor from The Sanctuary Wellness Institute, who shares how you can naturally mimic the effects of Ozempic without the injection.

"GLP-1 is a naturally occurring peptide hormone in your gut that controls appetite and regulates blood sugar levels. A balanced diet of cruciferous vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins will aid in boosting GLP-1 levels," Dr. Horsham explains.

We broke down the foods Dr. Horsham recommends that can naturally mimic the appetite-suppressing effects of Ozempic.

Healthy fats include important omega-3s you can obtain from foods like nuts, plant oils, seeds, fatty fish (i.e. salmon), and avocados.

"Eat healthy fats in small amounts to help with insulin sensitivity," Dr. Horsham shares.

Foods that are rich in fiber include fresh fruits like avocado, berries, pears, and apples; vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and leafy greens; legumes, including lentils, chickpeas, beans, and peas; leafy greens; and nuts. All of these plant-based items promote digestive wellness.

"Eat high-fiber foods to regulate glucose release, fill up your stomach, and slow down digestion," Dr. Horsham stresses. "You'll feel fuller for longer periods of time, similar to how Ozempic works."

Chia seeds are very small seeds that come from the Salvia hispanica plant. This nutrient-dense "superfood" is rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, protein, and fiber.

"Chia seeds are both high in fiber and omega-3, which aids gut health," Dr. Horsham tells us.

Did you know that there are supplements that can support your weight-loss journey, too? When paired with healthy eating and exercise, the right ones can be quite effective.

"Certain supplements may help boost GLP-1 levels in your body such as curcumin, ginseng, berberine, Yerba mate, and psyllium," Dr. Horsham explains.

In addition to including the right foods in your diet to promote weight loss, it's important to be mindful of a few other facts:

• Focus on consuming smaller meals, and space them out throughout each day. Doing so will help regulate your GLP-1 hormones more effectively.
• Make sure you're eating enough food. If not, your GLP-1 levels may become "dysregulated." It's also essential to stay hydrated, which is important for digestion.
• Every weight-loss plan is more successful when paired with exercise on a routine basis. This will help stimulate the GLP-1 hormone.
• Get sufficient sleep.

Before heading to the grocery store, check out Nutritionist Reveals The 10-Second Hack To Find Hidden Protein Foods.