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I Tried “Nature’s Ozempic” and This Is What Happened

One woman reveals how she lost weight on the supplement.

Rachel_Rose1

Rachel Rose is a social media influencer who shares weight loss advice. In one of her viral videos, she details how she lost weight fast by taking berberine, AKA “nature’s Ozempic.” In the video, she explains that all of a sudden, people started commenting about how lean she looked, and she didn’t think she did anything differently. “I myself noticed that my midsection was more defined and much leaner than it's ever been. Now I work out, and I eat pretty healthy, but I was surprised to see my results, and I was racking my mind, ‘Okay, what have I changed? What's different?’ And that's when I realized at that time that it had been about three months since I started taking berberine,” she says. “In this video, I'm gonna share with you what berberine is, the benefits, what my experience has been, potential side effects you should be aware of, and tips,” she says.


What Is Berberine

So what is berberine? “People call it nature's ozempic, but it's more like nature's Metformin. Metformin is a commonly prescribed medication to help treat things like PCOS and type two diabetes. It improves insulin sensitivity and helps manage blood sugar. That's what metformin does,” she says in the video.

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

Berberine Is a Natural Compound

Berberine Supplement. Capsules with Yellow Powder. Diabetes prevention.Shutterstock

“Berberine is quite similar, but it's a natural compound that can be extracted from several plants. For instance, turmeric, barberry, and Oregon grape are some of the things I've never heard of. But anyway, berberine can be extracted from some of these plants. Berberine has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine and ayurvedic medicine,” she says.

How Does Berberine Work

How does berberine work? “One of the main actions is that it activates an enzyme called AMPK, which stands for activated protein kinase. And AMPK plays a key role in regulating metabolism and energy levels,” says Rachel. “Studies show that berberine can decrease insulin resistance, help your body break down sugar in your cells, and increase beneficial bacteria in your gut. And, of course, there's more, but those are the big ones. Preliminary studies suggest that berberine may have benefits against depression, cancer and infections, fatty liver, and heart failure as it's a potent antioxidant and it's anti-inflammatory.”

Here Are the Benefits/Positive Side Effects

Woman sits with her back in the field and admires the sunset in the mountainsShutterstock

“So, what has my experience been? I've had no side effects, and I'm going to share with you what some of those side effects could be,” she says. “Experiences others have had include reduced bloating with Berberine; it helps with PCOS,” she says. “It helps stabilize blood sugar, which you're basically stabilizing your cravings. It's helped with weight loss, of course, improved cholesterol and then even energy levels people have shared.”

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Here Are the Negative Side Effects

“But then, on the other hand, some people have experienced bad side effects including nausea, gas, bowel distress, so constipation or the opposite of constipation. But everybody is so different, and that's why a lot of times with supplements, you know, what may work for me, what may work for you may not work, you know, for the other person,” she explains.

Here Are Her Tips

Portrait of happy young housewife with greek salad.Shutterstock

“I'm sharing my experience as a study of one, but then in my research, coming across what other people have noticed too and then what's been cited as benefits,” she says, moving on to the tips. “If you decide if you've done your own research, these are some tips you're gonna wanna be aware of.”

Choose Your Brand Carefully

Los Angeles, California, United States - 02-01-2023: A view of several bottles of Nature Made B12 vitamins, on display at a local grocery store.Shutterstock

“First of all, be selective with your brand. I've noticed in some forms. People would say that they started with one brand, and it worked for them. They went to a cheaper one, but it didn't work. And then they went back to, you know, the original brand they went to. I am a big believer in the Thorne supplement brand. You know, when I purchase a product, it's pretty reasonably priced, and I just know that I'm getting what I pay for. So I've been taking Thorne this whole time.”

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

Take 500 MG Before Your Meal

Girl with collagen supplement capsule close-up. Collagen pills to support skin health. BADS biologically active dietary supplements for healthcareShutterstock

“It's recommended to take 500 milligrams before your meal. And when I first started taking this, because it wasn't detailed on the Thorne label, it wasn't detailed to take it before my meal, I was actually taking it with or after my meal as I do with other supplements, and it still worked, but you're probably going to get better results by taking it before your meal.”

Consult with Your Doctor

Preparation for blood test with pretty young woman by female doctor medical uniform on the table in white bright room. Nurse pierces the patient's arm vein with needle blank tube.Shutterstock

“And then the other very important tip, and I know with any supplement we're like, consult with your doctor first. But especially with this one, and especially if you're on medications, you definitely want to connect with your doctor first before combining it with medications and just making sure that it's a right fit for you if you have any other things that you have to be careful about.”

RELATED: I Beat Binge Eating and Lost 70 Pounds with These 6 Steps

She Recommends It to Her Friends

“So that is my no-frills rundown on Berberine. “When my friends are looking at what they can do to lose some, maybe, some extra weight that they've added on, this is one of the things I get so excited to talk about,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

More For You

Rachel Rose is a social media influencer who shares weight loss advice. In one of her viral videos, she details how she lost weight fast by taking berberine, AKA “nature’s Ozempic.” In the video, she explains that all of a sudden, people started commenting about how lean she looked, and she didn’t think she did anything differently. “I myself noticed that my midsection was more defined and much leaner than it's ever been. Now I work out, and I eat pretty healthy, but I was surprised to see my results, and I was racking my mind, ‘Okay, what have I changed? What's different?’ And that's when I realized at that time that it had been about three months since I started taking berberine,” she says. “In this video, I'm gonna share with you what berberine is, the benefits, what my experience has been, potential side effects you should be aware of, and tips,” she says.


What Is Berberine

So what is berberine? “People call it nature's ozempic, but it's more like nature's Metformin. Metformin is a commonly prescribed medication to help treat things like PCOS and type two diabetes. It improves insulin sensitivity and helps manage blood sugar. That's what metformin does,” she says in the video.

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

Berberine Is a Natural Compound

Berberine Supplement. Capsules with Yellow Powder. Diabetes prevention.Shutterstock

“Berberine is quite similar, but it's a natural compound that can be extracted from several plants. For instance, turmeric, barberry, and Oregon grape are some of the things I've never heard of. But anyway, berberine can be extracted from some of these plants. Berberine has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine and ayurvedic medicine,” she says.

How Does Berberine Work

How does berberine work? “One of the main actions is that it activates an enzyme called AMPK, which stands for activated protein kinase. And AMPK plays a key role in regulating metabolism and energy levels,” says Rachel. “Studies show that berberine can decrease insulin resistance, help your body break down sugar in your cells, and increase beneficial bacteria in your gut. And, of course, there's more, but those are the big ones. Preliminary studies suggest that berberine may have benefits against depression, cancer and infections, fatty liver, and heart failure as it's a potent antioxidant and it's anti-inflammatory.”

Here Are the Benefits/Positive Side Effects

Woman sits with her back in the field and admires the sunset in the mountainsShutterstock

“So, what has my experience been? I've had no side effects, and I'm going to share with you what some of those side effects could be,” she says. “Experiences others have had include reduced bloating with Berberine; it helps with PCOS,” she says. “It helps stabilize blood sugar, which you're basically stabilizing your cravings. It's helped with weight loss, of course, improved cholesterol and then even energy levels people have shared.”

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Here Are the Negative Side Effects

“But then, on the other hand, some people have experienced bad side effects including nausea, gas, bowel distress, so constipation or the opposite of constipation. But everybody is so different, and that's why a lot of times with supplements, you know, what may work for me, what may work for you may not work, you know, for the other person,” she explains.

Here Are Her Tips

Portrait of happy young housewife with greek salad.Shutterstock

“I'm sharing my experience as a study of one, but then in my research, coming across what other people have noticed too and then what's been cited as benefits,” she says, moving on to the tips. “If you decide if you've done your own research, these are some tips you're gonna wanna be aware of.”

Choose Your Brand Carefully

Los Angeles, California, United States - 02-01-2023: A view of several bottles of Nature Made B12 vitamins, on display at a local grocery store.Shutterstock

“First of all, be selective with your brand. I've noticed in some forms. People would say that they started with one brand, and it worked for them. They went to a cheaper one, but it didn't work. And then they went back to, you know, the original brand they went to. I am a big believer in the Thorne supplement brand. You know, when I purchase a product, it's pretty reasonably priced, and I just know that I'm getting what I pay for. So I've been taking Thorne this whole time.”

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

Take 500 MG Before Your Meal

Girl with collagen supplement capsule close-up. Collagen pills to support skin health. BADS biologically active dietary supplements for healthcareShutterstock

“It's recommended to take 500 milligrams before your meal. And when I first started taking this, because it wasn't detailed on the Thorne label, it wasn't detailed to take it before my meal, I was actually taking it with or after my meal as I do with other supplements, and it still worked, but you're probably going to get better results by taking it before your meal.”

Consult with Your Doctor

Preparation for blood test with pretty young woman by female doctor medical uniform on the table in white bright room. Nurse pierces the patient's arm vein with needle blank tube.Shutterstock

“And then the other very important tip, and I know with any supplement we're like, consult with your doctor first. But especially with this one, and especially if you're on medications, you definitely want to connect with your doctor first before combining it with medications and just making sure that it's a right fit for you if you have any other things that you have to be careful about.”

RELATED: I Beat Binge Eating and Lost 70 Pounds with These 6 Steps

She Recommends It to Her Friends

“So that is my no-frills rundown on Berberine. “When my friends are looking at what they can do to lose some, maybe, some extra weight that they've added on, this is one of the things I get so excited to talk about,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

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.

Are you considering taking Ozempic to achieve your weight loss goals? There are lots of well-known side effects of the drug and other similar ones that are helping millions of people lose weight and get in shape. However, according to one influence, there is a “dark side” of the drug that many don’t know about. Celina Myers (@CelinaSpookyBoo) is a social media influencer with over 3 million YouTube subscribers and Instagram followers. “Today, I'm going to talk about something that's quite controversial, and I think everyone has heard of at this point. And I think what people haven't heard about are the negative aspects of it,” she says about Ozempic.


Her Doctor Suggested Ozempic Because She Is Diabetic

“My doctor brought up Ozempic to me because I actually am diabetic. It's used as a diabetic medication, but people also use it off-label to control their weight. I'm one of those people who didn't find weight loss in Ozempic, but I did see it helping me see food in a different way,” she says in her post.

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

A Friend of Hers Took It and Told Her Not To

She explains that a friend of hers recommended that she take it, attesting that it had helped her lose a lot of weight. But a few months later, she ran into the same friend and told her that she had also been prescribed the drug, and she told her not to take it. However, she did anyway.

At First, It Helped Her

“I started the medication. And to start, it was great. My sugars were controlled. I was feeling better. I really didn't lose any weight, but I found myself just, it was easier to make better decisions and not to binge eat the way that I did,” she said.

When She Upped Her Dosage, Things Changed

“A couple of months ago, probably two months ago, everything started to change. I had tried to increase my dose from 0.5 to one milligram. The weight loss dose is usually around one milligram to two milligrams. That's what the doctors say, but it can happen at any of the doses. You start at 2.5. You do that for a couple of weeks. You raise up to five, then you raise up to one milligram. You just kind of get your way there. This one week, I decided to go from 0.5 to 0.75,” she says.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

She Started Having Panic Attacks

However, a few weeks before she upped the dosage, she “changed,” she says. “I was finding myself having actual panic attacks, panic attacks that I hadn't had since I was a teenager. My sugars were great. Everything was great. I wasn't sick. It wasn't an outside influence. It wasn't other medications. And I hadn't really chalked it up to the fact that it was ozempic. It started with these little panic attacks. Out of nowhere, I'd be in public, and I would feel the highest level of doom that I can explain.”

She Couldn’t Find These Side Effects on Google

She said that the doctors recommended that she increase her dose. “I decided to do 0.75,” she says. “I don't know how I made it out. With Ozempic, you do get a tummy upset; you're not hungry, you're kind of nauseous, you're either constipated, or you're going to the washroom all the time. And these are things that I already dealt with in my own life,” she says. “But this symptom, no matter how much I Googled, I really couldn't find it. So I'm like, it's not at that. But this week, I was not me. I found myself walking out of complete conversations into the bathroom where I would hyperventilate, shake on the ground, throw up, and cry in the shower, but have a rational thought knowing that this isn't me and this isn't what I could feel like.”

She Reduced Her Dose and Still Felt Anxiety, So Upped It Again

The next week, she reduced her dosage, “but the feeling really didn't go away,” she says. So, she thought that it probably wasn’t the drug and upped her dosage again, “and things got worse,” she says. “I'm someone who's always had real good control over how I feel and what's going on and and how I deal with situations.”

She Joined Facebook Groups and Found Others Who Had Similar Feelings of Anxiety on the Drug

She joined various Facebook groups so she could talk to others about their experiences. “What I have found over this past month of research has really scared me and really blown my mind,” she admits. “The amount of people who were like, ‘Yeah, I've never had an anxiety issue in my life, and then I ended up in the hospital. Or people who are off it now because they were the happiest, most go-lucky people in the world, and they couldn't function as human beings,” she says. “Now I'm starting to read that if you've had issues with mental health, this can be something to stay away from.”

She says that some people try to blame it on high or low blood sugar. “It wasn't for me, and it wasn't for a lot of these people,” she claims.

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

She Is Going Off the Drug

She has been “drastically, drastically” reducing her dose and plans on stopping the drug altogether. “When you google this medication, they talk about a lot of symptoms. They even talk about some extreme ones like getting really bad pancreatitis or getting really bad gallbladder issues, or everyone's going to live differently with it. But for me, it's not worth it. Because these numbers of people who are dealing with the mental health aspects of it are growing and growing, and nobody is really talking about it.”

Ozempic, “Almost Took My Life,” She Says

“I wanna reiterate by saying, mentally, I am a very strong person. I'll have a little generalized anxiety, but honestly, who doesn't in the world? I've always been a very confident person, and I know if I'm feeling a certain way, I know how to make myself feel better, and I know how to pull myself out of it. But this past week, I will be honest with you, and I am so truthful when I say that Ozempic almost took my life,” she claims, adding that she doesn't drink or take any other drugs.

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

She Wants Others to Know About Her Experience

“I feel like all I'm seeing are these commercials like pushing and pushing and pushing this drug. And we're already dealing with such a mental health crisis as it is. And I don't know why this isn't being spoken about because the way that I have felt in the past couple of months is not the way I have ever felt in my life,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

LOS ANGELES - AUG 3: Dr Terry Dubrow at the NBCUniversal Cable TCA Summer 2016 Press Tour at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on August 3, 2016 in Beverly Hills, CA
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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.

Terry Dubrow, MD, is opening up about his experience with Ozempic. In a new interview the Botched and Real Housewives of Orange County star reveals that he is one of the many celebrities who has tried the controversial weight loss drug. And, while he did lose weight while on the weekly jab, there was one side effect that he simply couldn’t deal with.


1. Dr. Dubrow “Tried” Ozempic

GDANSK, POLAND - MAY 2022: obese fat man preparing Semaglutide Ozempic injection control blood sugar levelsShutterstock

Dr. Dubrow explains that he recently dabbled in the drug. “I’ve tried it. I thought it was amazing. I … didn’t have that much weight to lose,” he tells Page Six in a new interview.

2. He Wanted to See “What It Was Like”

Santiago, Chile, august 16th, 2023. Pen injection of semaglutide named “ozempic”, is a diabetes medicine to improve blood sugarShutterstock

He added that he was curious about what it was like. “But I wanted to try it because so many of my patients were on it and I wanted to see what it was like when you’re not diabetic and you only have 10-15 pounds to lose,” he continued.

RELATED:Exercises That Maximize Ozempic Results, Says Celebrity Trainer

3. He Calls It “The Biggest Breakthrough in Medical History”

Ozempic Insulin injection pen or insulin cartridge pen for diabetics. Medical equipment for diabetes parients. Copenhagen, Denmark - May 17, 2023.Shutterstock

However, while a “huge fan” of Ozempic, he experienced “some side effects” that simply didn’t work for his lifestyle. “I think it’s a miracle,” he said. “The biggest breakthrough in medical history.”

4. However, He Experienced “Low-Grade Nausea”

handsome man feeling sick after the party put his head in toillet and vomit. Strong headachesShutterstock

He wasn’t a fan of the “low-grade nausea” or the fact that while on it, he was disinterested in food. “I thought, ‘You know what, I kind of want to get my appetite back. The holidays are coming, I want to enjoy myself,’” he added about why he quit.

5. It Also Took “All the Joy of Eating Away”

Words I'm not hungry in a plate on white table. Top view.Shutterstock

“You go on vacation, maybe you don’t exercise, you eat too much,” he added. “It was kind of like, ‘Well, I want to go on a food vacation,’ meaning I want to be able to eat again.” It “really took … all the joy of eating away,” he added.

6. He Added That You Can’t Drink On It

Stop Drinking Alcohol. Refuse Glass Of Whisky. Say NoShutterstock

He also discussed the fact that some might find it a buzz kill. “You can’t drink on it,” he said. “You’ve got to be really careful with alcohol because people are being put in the hospital with pancreatitis.”

7. Ozempic Is Not Approved for Weight Loss

Female,Feet,Electronic,Scales,Weight,loss,gain,diet,Shutterstock

While many people use Ozempic to lose weight, the drug is actually not approved by the FDA for that purpose, but to “lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, in addition to diet and exercise,” they say. “Ozempic is also approved to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and known heart disease.” However, semaglutide is approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy.

Related: Woman Wows With Her Flat Stomach After Losing 30 Pounds by Walking

8. Research Has Found That You Can Gain Weight Back After You Stop Ozempic

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Studies have found that there are other downsides to Ozempic, one of them being rebound weight gain. One study found that one year after people stopped getting weekly semaglutide shots, they regained two-thirds of their prior weight loss, “with similar changes in cardiometabolic variables.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to lose weight and keep it off, the most sustainable way is through diet and exercise. While weight loss drugs may help you lose weight fast, unless you change your lifestyle you will likely gain it back.

GDANSK, POLAND - MAY 2022: obese fat man preparing Semaglutide Ozempic injection control blood sugar levels
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Over 41 percent of US adults are obese, according to the CDC—so it’s no wonder drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy are in such high demand to help people lose weight fast. “Obesity is an epidemic,” endocrinologist Anne Peters, MD, tells Keck Medicine of USC. “Many people are obese and overweight in the United States. That causes all sorts of problems. So, if we can get them to lose weight easily and simply, why not?” Here are 15 things to know before you ask your doctor for Ozempic.


What Is Ozempic?

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

Ozempic mimics the hormone GLP-1, helping control blood sugar and make you feel more full. “Ozempic, known generically as semaglutide, was approved in 2017 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in adults with type 2 diabetes,” says UC Davis Health. “Ozempic is a weekly injection that helps lower blood sugar by helping the pancreas make more insulin. It is not approved for weight loss, but some physicians prescribe it to be used for weight loss.”

What Does Ozempic Treat?

Diabetes,Blood,Sugar,Level,Lancelet,GlucometerShutterstock

Ozempic was designed to treat type 2 diabetes. “When using Ozempic to treat diabetes, weight loss is a common side effect,” says UC Davis Health. “It is designed to be taken long-term.”

Ozempic For Weight Loss

Full length of excited Indian woman sitting on scales at home, overjoyed with success of her slimming diet, side view. Emotional Asian lady achieving her weight loss goal, making YES gestureShutterstock

“Typically, I prescribe Ozempic for diabetes and have more often prescribed Wegovy for weight loss,” endocrinologist Alyssa Dominguez, MD, tells Keck Medicine of USC. “I have used Ozempic, sometimes, off-label for weight loss, though getting insurance approval for that can be challenging. And of course, when using Ozempic to treat diabetes, weight loss can be a common side effect. People with diabetes are also often struggling with being overweight or obese. So, it’s helpful to have that weight loss, as well.”

Who Can Prescribe Ozempic?

Preparation for blood test with pretty young woman by female doctor medical uniform on the table in white bright room. Nurse pierces the patient's arm vein with needle blank tube.Shutterstock

Ozempic is prescribed by a medical professional. Blood work should be taken beforehand. “Ozempic can be prescribed by any licensed clinician, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants,” Veronica R. Johnson, MD, tells Forbes.

How Much Does Ozempic Cost?

Ozempic Insulin injection pen or insulin cartridge pen for diabetics. Medical equipment for diabetes parients. Copenhagen, Denmark - May 17, 2023.Shutterstock

Without insurance, Ozempic can cost around $900 a month. “One of the challenges with these medications is that obesity isn’t recognized as a disease in this country, so people can’t get them covered with insurance,” Dr. Peters says.

What Are Ozempic Side Effects?

An elderly woman is sitting on the sofa at home, holding her stomach with her hands. Feels the pain of internal organs, indigestion, poisoning, menstrual pain.Shutterstock

Ozempic has unpleasant side effects for some people, such as belching, constipation, diarrhea, and vomiting. “Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation,” practicing radiologist physician Omer Awan MD, MPH, CIIP, tells Forbes. “However, more serious side effects that can occur include inflammation of the pancreas and gallbladder, changes in vision, allergic reactions like a skin rash, problems with the kidneys, as well as the development of a specific type of thyroid cancer.”

What Happens When You Stop Taking Ozempic?

Weight loss fail concept. Scale and depressed, frustrated and sad woman lying on floor holding head and covering face with hands.Shutterstock

“It’s important to note that if you start taking either of these drugs for weight loss, your body may get used to it, establishing a new normal,” says UC Davis Health. “This can cause your weight to plateau. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it's likely that you will gain back the weight you lost.”

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

What Is ‘Food Noise’?

Chicken hamburger. Sandwich with chicken burger, tomatoes, cheese and lettuce. Cheeseburger.Shutterstock

Ozempic turns off ‘food noise’, a term that refers to constant intrusive thoughts about food, which can make dieting difficult if not impossible. “Some providers haven’t yet come to understand that obesity is a disease that can (and often should) be treated medically,” says Dr. Butsch. “And many people living with obesity have internalized a stigma that makes them believe their obesity is somehow their fault. So, they aren’t asking for medication as a route to treatment.”

Ozempic and Diet

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You still need to adopt a healthy diet while taking Ozempic. “Medications are used in combination with lifestyle modification to increase long-term effectiveness,” W. Scott Butsch, MD, MSC, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “One of the most common misconceptions is that people believe they could take a medication for a few months, then stop and maintain weight. However, you’re likely to regain the lost weight once the medication is stopped.”

RELATED:5 Foods That Maximize Weight Loss on GLP-1 Medicines, According to Coach

How Much Weight Can You Lose?

Portrait of young brunette beauty using household scale.Shutterstock

Research shows people can lose an average of 15 percent of their body weight. “There’s a huge range of how much weight a person may lose while using these medications,” Dr. Peters says. “Some people may lose 50 pounds, but others won’t lose any. Results depend on the person and other behavioral modifications, like diet and exercise.”

Who Is the Ideal Candidate For Ozempic?

A man sitting on the bench and looking at the seaShutterstock

“For prescribing Wegovy for weight loss, a person must have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater,” Dr. Dominguez says. “It’s also approved for use in people with a BMI of 27 or greater, who have an accompanying overweight- or obesity-related condition, such as high blood pressure or sleep apnea.”

RELATED: What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Apples

Ozempic Benefits

Heart,Rate,monitor,Smartwatch,,Runner,Time,Shutterstock

Ozempic’s benefits may go beyond weight loss. “Ozempic can help people lose weight, which can reduce the risk for many other serious health conditions, such as heart problems,” says UC Davis Health. “Semaglutide treatments can also be used as an alternative to bariatric surgery for some patients who are obese.”

RELATED:8 Reasons You Aren't Losing Weight That Have Nothing to Do with Your Metabolism

What Is ‘Ozempic Face’?

Montreal, CA - 16 November 2023: Ozempic semaglutide injection pens. Ozempic is a medication for obesityShutterstock

Ozempic face is an unfortunate side effect of quick weight loss. “The buzzy term, coined by a New York dermatologist, describes the gaunt or hollow look of sagging facial skin that can appear when people lose excess fat in their cheeks or neck,” Al Aly, MD, tells UT Southwestern Medical Center. “For patients who lose 50-100 pounds, there is often a significant deflation in many parts of the body, leading to an unappealing change in appearance. Extra skin gathers on the body, including the belly, buttocks, back, chest, breasts, legs, and arms.”

Ozempic and Exercise

Sporty woman tying shoelace on running shoes before practice. Female athlete preparing for jogging outdoors. Runner getting ready for training. Sport active lifestyle concept. Close-upShutterstock

It’s important to develop healthy habits while taking Ozempic. “These drugs should be used with lifestyle modification,” Dr. Eduardo Grunvald, obesity medicine physician at UC San Diego Health, tells NBC News. “If you have to watch your diet and exercise with the medications, that’s what they’re meant for.”

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Who Shouldn’t Take Ozempic?

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

Not everyone is a good fit for Ozempic. “Patients younger than 18 years of age, pregnant individuals, those with a history of pancreatitis, type one diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, and a family history of some thyroid tumors should avoid taking Ozempic,” Dr. Awan says. “The drug is meant to be used for long-term therapy of diabetes, since diabetes is a chronic, long-lasting disease.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Long-term healthy habits are crucial for success, with or without Ozempic.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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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 thinking about going on Ozempic to lose weight but are curious what it is actually like? Learning about other people’s experiences with the weight loss drug can be helpful in deciding whether or not you want to explore the possibility for yourself. Katherine (@therealkatherine) is a social media influencer, podcaster, and TikToker who blogs about everything from entertainment to weight loss. In one of her viral videos, she shares her experience on Ozempic. “It's been 6 months already, wow,” she writes in the caption of the clip, sharing a before-and-after photo. Here is what she has to say about her experience with the drug.


She Offers a 6 Month Update

@therealkatherine

TikTok · IG + YT : @doseofmorningchisme

“It’s been six months since I started Ozempic,” she says at the start of the clip. “Like I always say, if you do not agree that I'm on Ozempic, that's totally fine. This video is not for you. Your opinion is not going to change my mind, but you are free to feel whatever way you wanna feel.”

She Lost 38 Pounds – Over 6 Pounds Per Month

therealkatherine2therealkatherine/TikTok

She starts off by revealing that she has lost over 6 pounds per month on the drug. “So it has been six months, as I mentioned. I have lost almost 38 pounds, give or take a pound,” she says.

RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

Her Transformation Is Stunning

@therealkatherine

TikTok · IG + YT : @doseofmorningchisme

“It is crazy looking at myself every single day. You see the difference, but not really sometimes. And then I look at pictures, and I'm like, the difference is there. You know what I'm saying? This picture on the left is from last Christmas, and the picture on the right is from Thanksgiving,” she continues.

She Feels Like “A Different Person”

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“This year, honestly, I feel kind of like a different person at this point. This medication has helped me so much,” she says.

“I struggle with PCOS, like hardcore, and I have the majority of my adult life, and I just thought I was always gonna struggle with it,” Katherine reveals. “I didn't realize there were things that I could do to make it better.”

“And also being insulin resistant, having such a difficult time losing weight, which is something that I never thought I would be able to get past,” she says. “I thought I was just gonna have to live with the fact that I couldn't lose weight, that it was difficult for me to lose weight, that I could look at a cookie and gain weight.”

In the comments, Katherine was asked how she got a prescription for the drug. “When I did my labs, my A1C was right under being diabetic, and due to having PCOS, they approved it!” she wrote.

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

What Is Ozempic Approved For?

Montreal, CA - 16 November 2023: Ozempic semaglutide injection pens and box. Ozempic is a medication for obesityShutterstock

The National Library of Medicine explains that Ozempic is approved to control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes when other medications do not control the sugar levels well enough. However, many people use it off-label for weight loss.

How Much Does Ozempic Cost?

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Ozempic can be expensive – with or without insurance. GoodRx reports that without insurance approval, Ozempic can cost as little as $937.98 per month and as much as $1014 per month. With approval, most insurance companies cover around 85 percent of the cost.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Will You Gain the Weight Back?

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The most unfortunate side effect of Ozempic is that many people experience rebound weight gain. One study found that one year after stopping the drug, participants regained two-thirds of their prior weight loss.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you have type 2 diabetes and are struggling to control your blood sugar levels, talk to your doctor about Ozempic. While it's approved for diabetes management, some people also use it for weight loss, although this is considered an off-label use.

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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 trying to lose weight, but not sure what to eat? You probably know that to burn body fat, you need to follow a high-protein, low-calorie diet. Some foods are better than others when it comes to meeting these criteria. Regina Trakhtman is an influencer and weight loss coach who dropped 7% body fat after kids at 39 and helps other women do the same. In a new social media post, she shares some of the foods she eats to lose weight quickly. “When I need more protein without extra calories, these are 6 things I eat,” she writes. “Here are my high protein, low calorie go-to’s!”

Egg Whites

Woman hands breaking an egg to separate egg white and yolks and egg shells at the background​ A Day of Measured EatingShutterstock

The first food she recommends? Egg whites. “Pure protein, zero fat, low calorie. Add them to oats, make an omelet, or mix into shakes for a protein boost!” she says.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Non-Fat Greek Yogurt

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Not all yogurt is healthy. Many have added sugars. However, non-fat Greek yogurt should be a staple in any fat loss diet. “15-20g of protein per cup with barely any fat! Perfect as a snack, in smoothies, or even as a creamy sauce base. It’s the most versatile ingredient!” she says.

Protein Powder

Whey,Protein,powder,Scoop.,Sports,Nutrition.​17. Soy Protein PowderShutterstock

Another item to add to your menu if you are trying to lose weight? Protein powder. “A quick and easy way to boost protein without extra fat or carbs. Mix it with water, almond milk, or even coffee!” she says.

Canned Tuna (in Water)

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She also eats canned tuna, in water, often. “Lean, high-protein, and low-calorie. Great in salads, wraps, or straight from the can with mustard. There’s one at Trader Joe’s that I’ve been obsessed with!” she says.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Low-Fat Cottage Cheese

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Most health experts maintain that low-fat cottage cheese should be an essential in your fat loss diet. “Packed with casein protein (slow-digesting) to keep you full longer without excess calories,” she writes.

Deli Turkey or Chicken (Low-Sodium)

A view looking into a package of processed turkey deli meat slices.​Processed Meats: The Cancer ConnectionShutterstock

Not all deli meat is healthy but she does recommend turkey or chicken. “Easy grab-and-go protein with barely any fat. Roll it up with mustard or eat it straight for a snack! My fav? Roll it in a crispy piece of lettuce 🥬 or in an @egglifefoods everything wrap,” she says.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

BONUS: Sugar-free Jello with Greek Yogurt + Protein Powder

Hayward, CA - July 24, 2014: Jello brand gelatin in Black Cherry flavor, sugar free1. Sugar-free Jello: 11 caloriesShutterstock

Sugar-free Jello with Greek yogurt + protein powder is the perfect high-protein dessert hack. “You’ll thank me later,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Are you trying to lose weight, but aren’t sure what to eat? Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, as it fuels your body for fat loss and muscle growth. Body Network spoke with Elaine Morrison, a pilates instructor and nutritional therapy practitioner who helps women look their best from the inside out, and asked her: What do you eat for breakfast when you want to lose weight? Her answer may surprise you.

Make Sure Your Breakfast Is Balanced

Avocado toast with poached egg on a wooden board. Breakfast concept.​Don’t Skip BreakfastShutterstock

“Eating a satiating breakfast that includes enough protein, healthy fat, and fiber will help you maintain steady energy (balanced blood sugar) and make better food choices throughout the day,” says Morrison. “It will help you to feel full and cut down on unnecessary snacking. You'll also have better energy and less brain fog. Balancing blood sugar is key to supporting fat loss.”

Aim for 30 Grams of Protein

Unrecognizable man preparing fried eggs for breakfast. Close up.Shutterstock

Morrison recommends starting by choosing protein and aiming for 30 grams of protein.

Some examples:

  • 2 eggs (1 egg = 6 grams of protein) + 2 chicken sausage
  • 2 eggs + 1/2 cup of cottage cheese (scramble the cottage cheese into the eggs for a creamy texture)
  • 1 serving of protein powder + 2/3 cup of greek yogurt.

Here’s What to Do When Traveling

NEW YORK CITY - MAY 2015: Starbucks store. Starbucks is the largest coffeehouse company in the world.​StarbucksShutterstock

“When traveling, most airports have Starbucks,” Morrison says. “I tell clients to purchase two servings of the egg white bites (a total of 4), which will give them 24 grams of protein. Purchase an apple if they have it, or bring one with you, and you will have a well-balanced meal.”

Then, Choose a Healthy Fat

Cottage cheese and mint in a wooden bowl on an old rustic table, selective focus.Shutterstock

Next, make sure you have a healthy fat. “Eggs contain 5 grams of fat/egg, so you'll get enough from eating eggs,” she says. “Choose cottage cheese or Greek yogurt that are low to full fat and that will give you your healthy fat. If you're using protein powder and Greek yogurt to make a smoothie, depending on how much fat is in the yogurt, you can also add a tablespoon of nut butter.”

Amp Up Your Fiber Intake

Wooden box filled fresh vegetables​She Eats Balanced Blood Sugar Meals and Eats Veggies FirstShutterstock

Next, choose non-starchy vegetables or fruit to add fiber to your meal. “Fiber helps keep you feeling full and supports healthy blood sugar levels,” she says.

Non-starchy vegetables: Saute, roast, or steam broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, spinach, carrots, asparagus.

Fruit with fiber: blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, apples, pears. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Josh York joshyorkgg
5 Simple Exercises That Transform Your Body in 30 Days
Copyright joshyorkgg/Instagram
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.

Every January, gyms fill with people logging hours on treadmills and ellipticals, hoping to burn fat. But what if there's a more effective approach? Many fitness enthusiasts don't realize that certain strength exercises can torch more calories than traditional cardio, both during and after your workout.I'm Josh York, a certified personal trainer who's been helping people get fit for years. Back in high school, I played hockey and realized how being in good shape made me perform better on the ice. That's when I fell in love with fitness. These days, I help clients reach their goals through more effective workouts. After years of experience, I've discovered that certain exercises burn fat way more efficiently than spending hours on the treadmill. Let me show you five moves that will transform your workouts and get you results faster than traditional cardio.

Why Cardio Alone Isn't the Answer

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Many people think cardio is the best way to burn fat. In my experience, there are two common mistakes – over-relying on cardio and overestimating calorie burn - that most people make when trying to lose fat with cardio. When trying to lose fat, cardio, diet, and strength training are just as critical to provide a balanced routine. Having a proper diet with a calorie deficit and a healthy diet provides effective fat loss. Incorporating strength training aids in building and maintaining muscle mass, both of which are crucial for burning calories at rest and sustaining a healthy metabolic rate. You have to keep a balanced mix of intensity and volume when performing cardio for fat loss for the best results. Read on to learn my top 5 fat-burning exercises.

1. Squats: The Lower Body Power Move

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How to do it: Begin by facing forward with your feet shoulder-width apart. Place your hands on your hips or arms straight in front of you at shoulder height. Bend at your knees while keeping your back straight. Lower to the ground until you reach 90 degrees. Stand back up to the start position.

How often: Aim to do squats three times a week with three sets of 10-20 reps.

Why it works: Squats help to build muscle, which increases your resting metabolic rate – leading to more calories being burned throughout your day. The muscle mass being built requires more energy to maintain in the long term.

Beginner modifications: Two easy ways to modify squats are to place a chair under you in order to create a natural pause at the bottom and control how far you go down. The second way is to not complete the full motion by not squatting as far until you get more comfortable with the movement.

Common mistakes to avoid: The biggest mistake to avoid is not squatting deep enough. Additionally, you want to ensure you don't lean forward, lift your heels off the ground, or round your back.

2. Lunges: Step Your Way to Fat Loss

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How to do it: Stand with your feet together. Place your hands on your hips. Take a step forward with one leg. Bend at the knees until you reach 90 degrees. Stand back up and bring the front foot back to the start position. Repeat with the opposite leg.

How often: The goal when doing lunges is to do them three to five times per week with two to three sets of 10 to 15 reps.

Why it works: Lunges can be performed at a higher intensity and variety, leading to more muscle being built and an increase in resting metabolism like squats.

Beginner modifications: Some simple modifications for lunges include shortening the front step, reduced range of motion with how low you go to the ground, using a chair or wall for support, and performing a reverse lunge to add stability.

Common mistakes to avoid: Focus on your step length so you aren't leaning too far forward. Another common mistake to avoid is pushing your front knee in front of your toes in order to avoid pain in your knee joint.

3. Dumbbell Overhead Lunge: Add Upper Body Work

Cheerful athletic woman standing in lunge position and raising arms holding dumbbells, having bodybuilding workout in modern living room interior. Home fitness concept

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How to do it: Place your feet together. Pick up the dumbbells in either a neutral grip or with your palms facing forward. Raise both arms straight over your head and hold the dumbbells above you. Take a step forward with one leg. Bend at the knees until you reach 90 degrees. Stand back up and bring the front foot back to the start position. Repeat with the opposite leg.

How often: Dumbbell overhead lunges should be performed three to five times a week with two to three sets of eight to 12 reps.

Why it works: This exercise engages more muscle throughout your body to help give a comprehensive strength workout to increase your metabolism.

Beginner modifications: The similar modifications to bodyweight lunges can also be used with dumbbell overhead lunges. An additional modification would be to start with lighter dumbbells or no weight in your hands as you raise them above your head.

Common mistakes to avoid: When doing dumbbell overhead lunges, avoid using weight that is too heavy. This can lead to additional common mistakes such as poor posture and leaning forward.

4. Kettlebell Swing: The Total Body Burner

A bodybuilder in shape is swinging kettlebell while standing in a gym.​Also, She Busts Some Fitness Myths, Including Daily WorkoutsShutterstock

How to do it: Place the kettlebell directly in front of you at your feet. Hinge at your hips to lower your body down and grab the kettlebell with both hands, palms facing you. Stand up and thrust your hips forward. In the same motion swing your arms straight up to shoulder height. Control the swing back down and squat back to the start position.

How often: For the best results, do kettlebell swings two to three times per week with three sets of 10 to 15 reps.

Why it works: Kettlebell swings combine intensity and total-body resistance training to promote post-exercise calorie burn. This can also be performed in a HIIT-style workout to burn more calories in a shorter time period.

Beginner modifications: Begin by working on the hip movement to master keeping your back straight and core engaged. If using weight, try lighter weight and focusing on controlled movements throughout the exercise.

Common mistakes to avoid: The most common mistakes to avoid with this exercise are squatting instead of hinging, swinging your arms instead of using your hips, hyperextending the lower back, and rounding the shoulders or back.

5. Burpees: The Ultimate Fat Melter

Jump up burpee. Sport exercises. Stage and release of squat. Exercises with free weight. Mixed race black man workout jump exercise on sport ground outdoor with urban cityscape on background.Shutterstock

How to do it: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Squat down and kick your legs out to a plank position. Drop into a push-up. Bring your feet back in to your chest. Propel up off the ground with your arms straight over your head.

How often: Perform burpees two to three times per week, aiming to complete three to four sets of eight to 12 reps.

Why it works: Burpees require a wide range of muscles in a high-intensity exercise to create a greater metabolic boost and calorie burn.

Beginner modifications: As a beginner, start with slower movements such as walking your legs in and out to work on form before speeding the exercise up. Break the workout down to individual movements to perfect each one.

Common mistakes to avoid: It is important to not rush through the workout, while also remembering to keep your core engaged.

Your Weekly Fat-Burning Workout Plan

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In order for the best results, structure these moves into a HIIT or circuit-style workout plan.

An example workout plan to follow would be:

Day 1: Full Body HIIT

  • Squats – 3 sets of 10-12 reps
  • Lunges – 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg
  • Dumbbell Overhead Lunges – 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg
  • Kettlebell Swings: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
  • Burpees – 3 sets of 8-10 reps
  • Intervals – Incorporate 15-30 seconds of rest between exercises

Day 2: Rest or Active Recovery

  • Light Cardio, yoga, or stretching

Day 3: Full Body HIIT

  • Squats – 3 sets of 10-12 reps
  • Lunges – 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg
  • Dumbbell Overhead Lunges – 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg
  • Kettlebell Swings: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
  • Burpees – 3 sets of 8-10 reps
  • Intervals – Incorporate 15-30 seconds of rest between exercises

Day 4: Rest or Active Recovery

  • Light Cardio, yoga, or stretching

Day 5: Lower Body Focus

  • Squats – 3 sets of 12-15 reps
  • Lunges – 3 sets of 12-15 reps per leg
  • Dumbbell Overhead Lunges – 3 sets of 12-15 reps per leg
  • Kettlebell Swings: 3 sets of 15-20 reps

Day 6 & 7: Rest or Active Recovery

  • Light Cardio, yoga, or stretching

Maximize Your Results Beyond Exercise

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In order to maximize results from these workouts, you must have proper nutrition, plenty of sleep, and proper recovery. When it comes to diet, focus on a calorie deficit so that you are taking in fewer calories than you are burning. You also want to manage protein intake to help support muscle growth, while balanced nutrients – carbs, fats, and micronutrients – support overall health and energy levels. Sufficient sleep will regulate your appetite and metabolism. You have to listen to your body and allow for recovery so the muscles can recover and rebuild. Active recovery like stretching and walking are great options to promote blood flow and reduce muscle soreness on rest days.

What Results Can You Expect?

Strong woman with broccoli in the kitchen10 Foods That Grow Muscle FastShutterstock/Terelyuk

Overall results with this workout plan would be improvements in strength, stamina, and overall fitness levels. In the initial four to six weeks, a person would experience increased stamina and initial enhancement to muscle definition. Consistency over an eight-week period will lead to higher strength levels and endurance, including increased muscle mass. There will also be a visible loss of body fat.

Ready to Ditch Cardio? Final Advice

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Push fears aside and jump into something new. Stick with it day after day, and you'll start seeing those results when you stay committed to the plan. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.