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CDC Warns of Norovirus Outbreak Across the US as "Stomach Bug" Cases Rise

Stomach bug season is hitting hard this year.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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.

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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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.

Norovirus is surging across the United States, with CDC data showing 91 cases reported the week of December 5, a sharp rise from 69 reported the week of November 28. “The terrible thing about norovirus is that by the time you figure out what it is, often it’s too late,” says Michelle Barron, senior medical director of infection prevention and control at UCHealth. “Everybody has been exposed, and everyone is dealing with it.” While most cases tend to happen between November and April, the majority of Norovirus outbreaks are related to food supply, Columbia University Medical School infectious disease professor Dr. Jatin Vyas tells Newsweek. "[Infectious disease experts] think of norovirus as kind of a year-round process, and there's just kind of blips and valleys." Here’s how to protect yourself from the outbreak.


Highly Contagious

Young man having nausea at home. Feeling sickShutterstock

Norovirus is very contagious and can be spread through contaminated food, water, and surfaces and through airborne droplets when someone vomits. “You are most contagious when you have symptoms of norovirus illness, especially vomiting,” says the CDC. “[And] during the first few days after you feel better. However, studies have shown that you can still spread norovirus for 2 weeks or more after you feel better.”

Fecal-Oral Route

Hygiene and cleaning hands.Washing hands rubbing with soap for corona virus prevention, hygiene to stop spreading coronavirus.Close up woman hand washing in the kitchen.Shutterstock

Darby Luckey, DO, says it’s common for the virus to be spread person-to-person via the fecal-oral route. “People hear that and think, ‘Ew, I’m eating poop,” Dr. Luckey tells Nebraska Medicine. “But really, it’s that people don’t always wash their hands appropriately. Maybe they’re changing a diaper or come into contact with it on their clothes or a towel in the bathroom, and it gets ingested.”

RELATED:Expert Reveals Ancient Oil Hack That Melts Belly Fat During Sleep

Symptoms of Norovirus

Senior men holding his stomach feeling pain while sitting on the sofa at home. Asian man having stomachache with isolated gastric. Senior suffering from digestion problem or acid reflux.Shutterstock

Nausea, fatigue, stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, body aches, and fever are common signs of norovirus. “For most patients, if they’re able to rest and stay hydrated, and if the nausea and vomiting resolve within 24 to 48 hours, they should be fine,” Dr. Luckey says. “But if the symptoms are so severe that they cannot stay hydrated, they may need IV fluids, even if they are otherwise healthy.”

Prevent Dehydration

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Replace the fluids and electrolytes lost through vomiting and diarrhea, experts say. “It is important to replace fluids to prevent dehydration,” infectious disease specialist Jesse Couk, MD, tells Piedmont Health. “I usually recommend using Pedialyte or a mixture of half Gatorade and half water. In the hospital we can treat dehydration with intravenous fluids and monitor electrolytes for any abnormalities that may occur. Children under 5, adults over 65, and the immunocompromised have the greatest risk of being hospitalized.”

How To Prevent Norovirus

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Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water is the best way to prevent norovirus from spreading, as hand sanitizer alone doesn’t cut it. “Alcohol can’t break the shield. A detergent like soap can most of the time,” Dr. Barron says. “Be really diligent with hand washing. Make sure you’re washing your hands really well with soap and water and that you’re cleaning surfaces with bleach. Also, be very conscious about food preparation.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 40 Health Symptoms That Can Be More Serious Than You Think.

More For You

Young,Woman,Having,A,Stomachache
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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.

Norovirus is surging across the United States, with CDC data showing 91 cases reported the week of December 5, a sharp rise from 69 reported the week of November 28. “The terrible thing about norovirus is that by the time you figure out what it is, often it’s too late,” says Michelle Barron, senior medical director of infection prevention and control at UCHealth. “Everybody has been exposed, and everyone is dealing with it.” While most cases tend to happen between November and April, the majority of Norovirus outbreaks are related to food supply, Columbia University Medical School infectious disease professor Dr. Jatin Vyas tells Newsweek. "[Infectious disease experts] think of norovirus as kind of a year-round process, and there's just kind of blips and valleys." Here’s how to protect yourself from the outbreak.


Highly Contagious

Young man having nausea at home. Feeling sickShutterstock

Norovirus is very contagious and can be spread through contaminated food, water, and surfaces and through airborne droplets when someone vomits. “You are most contagious when you have symptoms of norovirus illness, especially vomiting,” says the CDC. “[And] during the first few days after you feel better. However, studies have shown that you can still spread norovirus for 2 weeks or more after you feel better.”

Fecal-Oral Route

Hygiene and cleaning hands.Washing hands rubbing with soap for corona virus prevention, hygiene to stop spreading coronavirus.Close up woman hand washing in the kitchen.Shutterstock

Darby Luckey, DO, says it’s common for the virus to be spread person-to-person via the fecal-oral route. “People hear that and think, ‘Ew, I’m eating poop,” Dr. Luckey tells Nebraska Medicine. “But really, it’s that people don’t always wash their hands appropriately. Maybe they’re changing a diaper or come into contact with it on their clothes or a towel in the bathroom, and it gets ingested.”

RELATED:Expert Reveals Ancient Oil Hack That Melts Belly Fat During Sleep

Symptoms of Norovirus

Senior men holding his stomach feeling pain while sitting on the sofa at home. Asian man having stomachache with isolated gastric. Senior suffering from digestion problem or acid reflux.Shutterstock

Nausea, fatigue, stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, body aches, and fever are common signs of norovirus. “For most patients, if they’re able to rest and stay hydrated, and if the nausea and vomiting resolve within 24 to 48 hours, they should be fine,” Dr. Luckey says. “But if the symptoms are so severe that they cannot stay hydrated, they may need IV fluids, even if they are otherwise healthy.”

Prevent Dehydration

Orange fizzy powder and water glass with copy space. Healthy supplement.Shutterstock

Replace the fluids and electrolytes lost through vomiting and diarrhea, experts say. “It is important to replace fluids to prevent dehydration,” infectious disease specialist Jesse Couk, MD, tells Piedmont Health. “I usually recommend using Pedialyte or a mixture of half Gatorade and half water. In the hospital we can treat dehydration with intravenous fluids and monitor electrolytes for any abnormalities that may occur. Children under 5, adults over 65, and the immunocompromised have the greatest risk of being hospitalized.”

How To Prevent Norovirus

Cleaning home table sanitizing kitchen table surface with disinfectant spray bottle washing surfaces with towel and gloves. COVID-19 prevention sanitizing inside.Shutterstock

Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water is the best way to prevent norovirus from spreading, as hand sanitizer alone doesn’t cut it. “Alcohol can’t break the shield. A detergent like soap can most of the time,” Dr. Barron says. “Be really diligent with hand washing. Make sure you’re washing your hands really well with soap and water and that you’re cleaning surfaces with bleach. Also, be very conscious about food preparation.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 40 Health Symptoms That Can Be More Serious Than You Think.

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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.

With 1 in 8 US adults having tried a GLP-1 drug like Ozempic or Mounjaro at some point and half of those currently using a prescription, approximately 15 million people are taking these drugs, according to a survey by KFF. With the popularity of these medications exploding, tracking side effects is more important than ever. New research published in JAMA shows that non-diabetics who take the drugs could experience serious and unpleasant side effects. Here’s what those side effects are, plus others to expect from taking a GLP-1 drug.


Pancreatitis

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Non-diabetic users have a roughly nine times higher chance of developing pancreatitis. “It's definitely important that we're talking about this, but I want to keep it in perspective,” Dr. Tara Narula tells TODAY. “These drugs have been around and treating diabetic patients for over ten years, and we've really known about a lot of these side effects, bowel obstruction, pancreatitis, in fact, many of them are on the labels for these drugs.”

Bowel Obstruction

Non-diabetic users have a four times higher risk of a bowel obstruction. “But the absolute risks are small, so these are rare,” Dr. Narula says. “We're talking about, for example, gastroparesis, which is this concept of slowing stomach emptying. We're talking about going from 0.3% with these non-GLP drugs to 1% with Ozempic, 0.3% to 0.8 or 0.7% with the other drugs. So these are small increases.”

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

Stomach Paralysis

Young woman sitting on the bed with hard stomach pain.Shutterstock

Non-diabetic users have a more than three-and-a-half times higher risk of stomach paralysis. “That's actually how this drug partially works, which is slowing the emptying of the stomach,” Dr. Narula says. “So it helps you feel fuller longer. The problem is, in some people, if it is severe, you will end up with nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, feeling full bloating. So it's important we're raising awareness, but we want to keep it in perspective.”

No Off-Label Drugs

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Dr. Narula makes it clear no one should be trying to get these drugs without going through a medical professional. “People should not be getting this drug off the internet,” she says. “They should not be getting it without sitting down with a healthcare provider who can really talk to you about the risks and the benefits. Are you someone, for example, who has a history of bowel problems or pancreatitis? Then you probably shouldn't be taking this drug. Do the benefits outweigh? And yes, for obesity, we're talking about cardiovascular risks, cancer risks.”

Take It Slow

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

Dr. Narula recommends starting on a low dose and increasing if necessary. “For a lot of people, there is going to be a benefit here, but you really want to do it the right way in terms of starting these drugs. Start low; you don't increase it until four to six weeks. You monitor for side effects, and if you need to, you can lower the dose. This healthcare provider should be talking to you about non-GI risks as well.”

There Are Benefits Too

Montreal, CA - 25 November 2023: Hand holding Ozempic semaglutide injection pen. Ozempic is a medication for obesityShutterstock

Dr. Narula says 40 to 60% of my patients are talking about GLP-1 drugs. “I mean, so many of my patients struggle with obesity, and many of them want to know about other options besides bariatric surgery and meeting with a nutritionist,” she says. “They say I've tried everything, and I can't figure out a way to lose weight. And we know that with these medications, we are seeing benefits in a cardiovascular high-risk population for lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke. So there are benefits for those people. So it is important to talk to your doctor about it. It's not for everyone. It may be for you, but really have that conversation.”

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

Vision Issues

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Ozempic and Wegovy may also cause several other side effects, like vision issues. “It may seem strange that a drug made to help control diabetes could make your eyesight worse, but it’s something we’ve known about for a while,” says Raj K Maturi, MD. “A large clinical study suggested that there is an association between blood sugar control and worsening of diabetic retinopathy.”

Hypoglycemia

Measuring blood sugar with a blood glucose meterShutterstock

Ozempic may cause hypoglycemia in some people. “Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar may include dizziness or lightheadedness, blurred vision, anxiety, irritability or mood changes, sweating, slurred speech, hunger, confusion or drowsiness, shakiness, weakness, headache, fast heartbeat, and feeling jittery” Ozempic makers warn.

Gallbladder Issues

Woman with abdominal pain in the middle above the navel. She sits on the sofa at home.Shutterstock

Some people taking GLP-1 drugs may experience gallbladder issues. “Given the wide use of these drugs, these adverse events, although rare, must be considered by patients who are contemplating using the drugs for weight loss because the risk-benefit calculus for this group might differ from that of those who use them for diabetes,” according to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Thyroid Cancer

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Ozempic may cause thyroid cancer, but a study shows no significant risk. “Our study covers a broad group of patients and provides strong support that GLP-1 analogs are not associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer,” Björn Pasternak, principal researcher at the Department of Medicine at Karolinska Institutet, said in a statement.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Ozempic Face

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

Fast weight loss may lead to a more hollowed-out look to the face, hence the term ‘Ozempic Face’. “The term is misleading because this can be a side effect of any GLP-1 drug or any other cause of rapid weight loss,” Lisa Catanese, ELS, says via Harvard Health. “If weight is lost in a more gradual way, these changes may not be as noticeable. It's the faster pace of weight loss that occurs with GLP-1 drugs that can make facial changes more obvious.”

GI Issues

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GLP-1 drugs may cause constipation and diarrhea. “Gradual dosing while on Ozempic is crucial to mitigate the risk of severe constipation associated with higher doses,” Andrew Le, MD, tells Buoy Health. “Constipation caused by Ozempic usually subsides over time, with the median duration of constipation lasting 47 days.”

Fatigue and Headache

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Fatigue and headaches are also common side effects. “Gastrointestinal problems are the most common side effects since Wegovy can slow down people’s digestive systems,” Dr. Cecilia Low Wang, endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism expert, tells UC Health. “During clinical trials, some participants experienced nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, indigestion, dizziness, bloating and gas.”

RELATED: I Lost 10 Pounds in 30 Days With Walking and Eating Real Food

Severe Side Effects

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Dr. Low Wang says side effects can be so severe some people stop taking the drug. “About one in five people might stop because they are experiencing bad side effects,” she tells UC Health. “I encourage some patients to stay at the lower dose level for a longer period of time to see if they can tolerate it better and still get some benefit from the medication. Or if they don’t tolerate this medication, we might try a different one.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

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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.

Are you struggling to lose weight? It could be that you are sabotaging your success – but you don’t even know it. It could also have to do with gut health red flags. According to Jamie Maitland, Certified Holistic Nutritionist, Fitness Trainer, Founder of The Office Health, and author of The 21 Day Reset Cookbook, there are a bunch of health habits that may be sabotaging your weight loss. Here are 15 to look out for.


Poor Sleep

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Poor sleep is majorly tied to weight loss, says Maitland. “It might sound a bit cliche, but sleep is extremely important!” she explains. “Sleep is vital for both physical and mental health. It quite literally helps the body store energy, repair injuries, improve memory, and grow.”

Not Drinking Enough Water

Eight glasses of water a dayShutterstock

Inadequate water intake is another health habit that could be getting in the way of your weight loss. “Water is life,” exclaims Maitland. “We are 70% water. Water helps get rid of waste in the body, can help keep you feeling full, and adequate water intake helps break down fat cells.”

Not Understanding Your Insulin Resistance

Doctor with human Pancreatitis anatomy model with Pancreas, Gallbladder, Bile Duct, Duodenum, Small intestine and tablet. Pancreatic cancer, acute pancreatitis and Digestive systemShutterstock

Not knowing your insulin resistance and why it's so important may also be getting in the way of your weight loss. “Insulin is our master fat-storing hormone,” says Maitland. “It is produced in the pancreas and plays a key role in regulating energy and macron balance within the body.”

Skin Issues

Woman looking at her reflection in the mirror.Shutterstock/Robert Przybysz

Are you experiencing skin problems? “Most all skin conditions are linked to gut bacteria imbalances,” says Maitland.

Chronic Fatigue

Tired man in car. Sleepy drowsy driver, fatigue. Driving and sleeping in vehicle. Exhausted, bored or drunk person. Serious upset man with stress, despair, anxiety or melancholy. Problem in traffic.Shutterstock

If you are experiencing chronic fatigue, there could be an underlying health issue. “This might be an indication of poor nutrient absorption,” says Maitland.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Chronic Bloating

woman clutching her stomach with her hands in discomfortShutterstock

“Chronic bloating isn’t normal. Stop convincing yourself that it is,” says Maitland. “Bloating can be caused by gas, digestion issues, stress, and hormones. Take into consideration what you are actually eating so you can pinpoint what might be making you feel bloated.”

Food Intolerance

Doubtful,Woman,Thinking,About,Eating,A,Pie,Dessert.,Lady,HavingShutterstock

Food intolerances can also help you understand your gut health better. “It’s helpful to know what foods might be triggering inflammation to further help you get to the root of the cause,” says Maitland.

Frequent Illness

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Are you frequently sick? “This can be a sign of a weak immune system due to poor gut health,” says Maitland.

Not Being Able to Stick to a Diet

Young hungry woman in front of refrigerator craving chocolate pastries.Shutterstock/Stokkete

If you are feeling constantly challenged to stick to a diet, there could be a reason. “It may be because of food cravings and lack of motivation in general,” says Maitland.

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

Frequent Diarrhea

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There might be gastrointestinal red flags as well, including frequent diarrhea. “This can lead to nutrient deficiencies, which unfortunately can put a halt to your weight loss efforts,” says Maitland.

Subhead Goes Right Here

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Another gastrointestinal red flat? “Constipation, which can suggest a sluggish digestive system,” says Maitland.

Sugar Craving

Man,Eating,Chocolate,Chips,Muffin,sad,worried,diet,breakfastShutterstock

Sugar cravings can also be responsible for an inability to lose weight. “These can lead to unhealthy food choices,” she says.

Mood Swings

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If your mood is off balance, you are more likely to eat unhealthy food. “Mood swings and irritability can contribute to emotional eating and weight gain,” says Maitland.

Poor Living Environment

Unpleasant,Pain.,Sad,Unhappy,Man,Sitting,On,The,Sofa,depressedShutterstock

A poor living environment can have a major effect on your motivation, says Maitland. “An optimal environment should have you feeling comfortable and safe wherever this space is,” she explains. “It should make you feel happy.”

RELATED:11 Superfoods to Maintain Muscle Mass As You Age

Chronic Stress

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“Chronic stress, as we all know, can lead to an array of problems inside the body,” says Maitland. “Unfortunately, chronic stress can make your weight loss journey a bit more challenging as it can affect your body processes such as your metabolism and appetite.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Don’t forget to hydrate. The CDC's recommended daily water intake is around 125 ounces (3.7 liters) for men and 91-98 ounces (2.7-2.9 liters) for women, with some variation based on age. Water helps get rid of waste in the body and can help keep you feeling full, and adequate water intake helps break down fat cells.

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.

Kate Tries is a social media influencer who loves trying out new diets and fitness trends. In one of her viral YouTube videos, she reveals how she lost 8 pounds in 3 weeks on the candida diet. “My name is Kate, and today I'm going to talk about the Candida diet. I've been following this diet for three weeks, so I'm going to go over my results, and how I'm feeling and what I think of the diet overall, and here we go,” she says in the clip.


The Candida Diet Is No Sugar, No Flour, No Dairy, No Grains

high-angle shot of a wooden table sprinkled with sugar where you can read the text no sugar and a spoon full of sugarShutterstock

“This diet is basically no sugar, no flour, no dairy, no grains. Basically, I just ate vegetables, meat, nuts, seeds, and a lot of eggs for three weeks. The purpose of this diet is to fix my gut health and to balance the bacteria in my stomach,” says Kate.

She Lost 8 Pounds in 3 Weeks

“Within these three weeks, I have lost eight pounds, which is the most I've lost on any of the diets I've done so far. So I'm really excited about that. Although I did not do this diet specifically for weight loss, it's more to get me healthy. Ironically, I've lost the most weight on this diet so far. I think I've lost about 32 pounds overall and about 15 since I started this channel,” she says.

You Will Get Sick Before You Get Better

View of young woman suffering from stomachache on sofa at homeShutterstock

Unfortunately, you are going to feel worse before you feel better on the diet, Kate says. “So if you have candida, it can be really hard to start a diet like this, and a lot of times you'll get kind of sick before you start getting better,” she explains.

RELATED: 7 Healthiest Foods You Need in Your Diet Every Day

She Started Off By Doing a Cleanse

Woman juicing making green juice with juice machine in home kitchen. Healthy detox vegan diet with vegetable cold pressed extractor to extract nutrients for smoothie drink.Shutterstock

“The way I started this diet is by doing a three-day cleanse,” she says, linking to another video of exactly what she did on it.

She Had Some Go-To Foods She Ate Over and Over Again

Young woman with shopping cart chooses and buying products at the grocery store.Shutterstock

“The way to be successful in this diet is to have some go-to foods. I had a lot of food that I ate over and over and over again. Three weeks is not that long, so I didn't even really get tired of the foods I was eating,” she says.

She Also Had Go-To Meals at Restaurants

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“I found a couple of restaurants that had compliant meals that I could order. And so whenever I was tired, or I just wasn't feeling like cooking after a long day, I would go to these specific meals and these specific restaurants, and that made it way easier to accomplish. So I really suggest that you find ways to make this as easy as possible and as low maintenance as possible because if you're really stressed about cooking and, and being really strict about making everything yourself, it's gonna make it way more difficult to do this,” she says.

RELATED: I Lost 100 Pounds by Walking Every Day: Here Are My Hacks

Anyone Can Benefit From This “Back to Basics” Diet

Doctor talking to patient in officeShutterstock

“You do not have to have a candida issue to do this diet,” she continues. “It's pretty healthy for anyone. Obviously, you should check with your doctor before you make any kind of diet plan. But this is basically just like back to basics, no refined food and just basically easily digestive food.”

It Can Help If You Have Any Stomach Issues

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“There are quite a few people who don't have candida but just have stomach issues. Actually, a lot of stomach issues, like a leaky gut, can originate from Candida. So, this is a good diet for a variety of different types of people. Even if your goal is just to lose weight, it was really successful for me just to do that,” she explains.

She Has Seen a “Big Improvement” with Her Symptoms

Unrecognizable woman experiencing abdominal pain at home, young female touching her stomach while sitting on couch in living room, feeling discomfort in digestion, cropped shot, closeupShutterstock

“As far as the candida issue goes, doing this diet, I have seen a very big improvement with my symptoms, and I'm actually feeling quite a bit better,” she says. “I still have symptoms, though I'm not over this issue, and it can take a long time. The process of getting over a candida imbalance in your stomach is a big deal, and it can take a long time to recover.”

RELATED: 7 Red Flag Signs You’re Burning Muscle (Not Fat)

You Might Also Need Supplements

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She did say that you might need to take supplements as well. “While I've been following this diet, I was just focusing on the food I was eating, and I wasn't taking any additional supplements. And Candida is hard to kill, and you actually do need supplements in order to get over this issue,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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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.

Everyone knows the number one side effect of taking Ozempic: Weight loss. In the past few years, the diabetes drug used to help people lose massive amounts of weight has created serious buzz in the diet world, with many touting it as a “miracle” drug. However, if you are thinking about getting the weekly jab, it’s important to educate yourself about it, especially when it comes to potential side effects. Here are the major side effects to look out for, according to our pool of experts and some from the Ozempic maker itself.


Fatigue

Young woman rubs her eyes after using glasses. Eye pain or fatigue concept.Shutterstock

Fatigue is reported to be a common side effect of taking Ozempic, especially if your blood sugar is low as a result, explains Novo Nordisk, the brand behind the weight loss drug. “When you start taking these drugs, your body is working extra hard to burn fat, so you might feel a little fatigued at first,” says Sue Decotiis, MD, a NYC-based weight-loss doctor. "I don’t recommend anyone do any high-intensity workouts while on these drugs. I recommend weightlifting and low-impact cardio like walking.”

Ozempic Breath

Woman sitting on her bed checking her breath in the morning. Concept of Bad BreathShutterstock

You might also get bad breath, which some experts have dubbed Ozempic breath. Dentist, expert, and author Dr. Kami Hoss explains a theory surrounding the phenomenon: The drug could be contributing to gut dysbiosis — an imbalance of bacteria in the intestines that can lead to digestive problems and oral health issues like bad breath. In one study conducted by Novo Nordisk found that nearly 9% of people taking semaglutide reported belching.

“When it comes to treating Ozempic breath, it’s all about the alkalinity,” says Hoss, who recommends products like “SuperMouth MouthWash and MouthSpray, which boast an alkaline pH of 8.5, which is significantly higher than many over-the-counter, oral care products which tend to be acidic." It’s important to note that Ozempic breath isn’t a clinical diagnosis.

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

Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Woman looking at her reflection in the mirror.Shutterstock/Robert Przybysz

“Ozempic face” is another unofficial side effect of rapid weight loss. It has been a buzzword in the plastic surgery and aesthetic world and has even been cited in scientific studies. Fine lines and wrinkles are one of the major complaints. “Rapid weight and fat loss with Ozempic can lead to the characteristic ‘Ozempic face,’ where facial volume and fat are depleted, resulting in wrinkles and sagging skin,” one of them notes. “We have seen a significant increase in facial aesthetics services since the advent of Ozempic or Semiglutide. And it’s not slowing down anytime soon,” says Dr. Neville Campbell, MD, MBA, Medical Director of R3 Stemcell & Anti-Aging.

Fiber Digestion Issues

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Novo notes that there are a number of common digestive side effects when taking Ozempic. Dr. Decotiis points out that Ozempic and other GLP-1 weight-loss drugs make it harder to digest high-roughage foods. “There is a lot of fiber in it, which means it takes longer for the body to digest that. All the GLP-1 drugs slow down and delay gastric emptying,” she says. Foods with high roughage tend to be healthy, so they should not be completely avoided, “but I think you should eat them in small quantities,” she suggests. “That’s not a problem for people on these drugs because you won’t have a big appetite.”

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

Stomach Problems

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Michelle Routhenstein, MS RD CDCES CDN, Preventive Cardiology Dietitian at EntirelyNourished.com, notes that diarrhea, also officially listed as a common side effect, is a major complaint. “Among my clients using Ozempic, the most common side effects often relate to the gastrointestinal system, such as diarrhea,” she says. “This makes sense since the medication's active ingredient mimics the hormone GLP-1, which influences food absorption and is recognized for its role in slowing down gastric emptying.”

While the exact cause of diarrhea is still unclear, “it seems that due to the drug's mechanism of action, it can sometimes lead to osmotic diarrhea, where more water is drawn into the intestines, resulting in this side effect,” she explains.

Loss of Facial Volume

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Vishal Verma, MD, founder of Revive Med Spa, adds that loss of facial volume and premature aging, AKA ozempic face, are other complaints. "This can be addressed with very effective filler. We have been excited about emerging regenerative treatments that stimulate the body to naturally produce collagen, elastin, and fat in treated areas to help correct the degradation commonly occurring with aging,” he says.

Changes in Taste

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More than 0.4% of people who take Ozempic report change in taste (also called dysgeusia). “It could be caused by zinc deficiency related to significantly eating less zinc-rich foods such as meat and nuts,” explains Kylie Bensley, MS, RD and founder of Sulinu Nutrition. “If things taste bitter or acidic, try eating with plastic utensils.”

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

Dizziness

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Dizziness and low blood sugar are other possible side effects, as noted by Novo. “Eating enough carbs and pairing them with proteins is important,” when taking ozempic, per Bensley.

Nausea

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Nausea is another very common side effect, as listed by Novo. Bensley maintains that it is “commonly related to increasing the dose too fast.”

Constipation

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Another gastrointestinal issue reported by those on ozempic is constipation, and Novo confirms it as a common side effect. “Constipation is caused by eating high-fat foods and low fiber,” says Bensley. “I advise to eat at least 2 to 4 fruits with skins a day.

Stretching Skin

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“Some people are complaining about having a saggy butt, Ozempic face, or loose skin from taking these drugs, but that doesn’t have anything to do with the drug. It has more to do with fat loss,” says Dr. Decotiis. “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. 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 while using these drugs. 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.”

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

Inflammation of Pancreas

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According to Novo a serious side effect to look out for is inflammation of your pancreas (pancreatitis). “Stop using Ozempic® and call your health care provider right away if you have severe pain in your stomach area (abdomen) that will not go away, with or without vomiting. You may feel the pain from your abdomen to your back,” they say.

Changes in Vision

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Changes in vision are another potentially serious side effect, according to Novo. “Tell your health care provider if you have changes in vision during treatment with Ozempic®,” they instruct.

Kidney Problems

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Kidney problems, including kidney failure, could be another serious side effect that Novo warns about. “In people who have kidney problems, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may cause a loss of fluids (dehydration), which may cause kidney problems to get worse. It is important for you to drink fluids to help reduce your chance of dehydration,” they says.

Swelling

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Novo also recommends looking out for a number of serious allergic reactions. “Stop using Ozempic® and get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat,” they say.

Breathing or Swallowing Issues

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Another potential sign of an allergic reaction, per Novo? “Problems breathing or swallowing,” they warn on the website.

Rash or Itching

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Side effects may also include skin issues, says Novo. If you experience “severe rash or itching,” it's a sign to get help as soon as possible.

Rapid Heartbeat

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You also need to look out for cardiovascular symptoms, says Novo. A “very rapid heartbeat,” is a potential serious side effect, according to the website.

Gallbladder Problems

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“Gallbladder problems have happened in some people who take Ozempic,” says Novo. “Tell your health care provider right away if you get symptoms which may include: pain in your upper stomach (abdomen), fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or clay-colored stools.”

Possible Thyroid Tumors

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Possible thyroid tumors, including cancer, are one of the most serious signs to look out for, warns Novo. “Tell your health care provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer,” they say, citing rodent studies. “It is not known if Ozempic® will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people,” they add.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you're on weight loss drugs, prioritize weightlifting and low-impact cardio, such as walking, to maintain your fitness safely.

Denise Hamdan denisehamdan
I Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These High-Protein Foods
Copyright denisehamdan/TikTok
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.

Denise Hamdan (@denisehamdan) is a food and fitness influencer on TikTok who regularly shares her tricks and tips on weight loss with her 71,000 followers. Hamdan lost a whopping 30 pounds by following a healthy diet and exercising. In a recent clip, she reveals her diet. “Hey y'all, here's everything I ate in one day to stay lean as someone who lost 30 pounds,” she says, revealing that she eats 1829 calories and 147 g of protein per day. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, also weighs in.

Breakfast

“I started my morning with my breakfast cocktail of oxygen and creatine. I just added the products to my showcase. So go check them out. I have my cocktail with Greek yogurt with strawberries and blueberries and a drizzle of granola,” she says. The total calories equal 157 and 14 g protein.

Lunch

“I'm in this phase where I eat nearly the same thing every day, and that's been scrambled eggs with cheese and spinach and some turkey bacon on the side,” she says about her lunch. “And honestly, I'm not complaining because it hits every time. Her total calories are 562 and 52 g protein.

Green Smoothie

Sometimes she will have a smoothie instead. “I made a cute little green smoothie and it was a little messy, but it was good regardless,” she says.

Pre-Workout Snack

“Later, for a pre-workout snack, I made some cute little tuna crackers with the green onion and bell pepper,” she says about the snack totaling 430 calories and 28 g protein.

OxyShred and Pre-Workout

“Then I got to the gym and made my OxyShred and pre-workout combo before hitting cardio and abs,” she continued. “It had me sweating.”

Protein Bar

“Right after my workout I had my favorite dark chocolate pretzel protein bar,” she continued.

Dinner

“And finally for dinner I made this super easy teriyaki chicken bowl over brown rice,” she said, adding that the 560 calorie and 52 gram protein meal is “so delicious and the macros forward are amazing.”

Dessert

“Lastly, for dessert, I had some chocolate 'cause I cannot end the day without a little sweet treat,” she said about the 120 calorie sweet treat.

RDN Weighs in

tara collingwoodI'm a Nutritionist and These 9 High-Protein Snacks Keep My Clients Full While Losing 50 Pounds

Copyright Tara Collingwood

“1800-1900 calories seems like a good amount for her, but I don’t know her exact age, height, weight, or exercise level,” says Collingwood. “147 grams of protein is probably more than she needs, but it is not dangerously high.”

Try Eating More Vegetables, Expert Says

“I see a little bit of fruit on the yogurt and a tiny bit of spinach in eggs and peppers in tuna but overall not much veggie intake (green smoothie was green powder and not real whole veggies) which is proven with only 16 grams of fiber for her overall day,” Collingwood continues. “I would recommend increasing veggies to aim for 25 grams of fiber each day.” She also likes how often she is eating with the meals and snacks in between. “I do worry about the OxyShred. I couldn’t find on their website anywhere exactly how much caffeine is in it and having it later in the day could definitely impact sleep since caffeine has a 5 hour half-life,” she points out.

💪🔥Body Booster: How much protein should you consume per day? Aim for 0.8 to one gram per pound of bodyweight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

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20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic
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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.

Ozempic can be highly effective for weight loss, but there are definitely some unpleasant side effects to contend with, as the makers of the drug, Novo Nordisk, warn about. Nausea, constipation, and stomach pain are common, but avoiding certain foods and behaviors can make a difference. Here are 20 things to avoid while on Ozempic, to make the most of the medication and encourage healthy weight loss.

Too Much Sugar

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Added sugars, and sugary sodas, can spike blood sugar. Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, recommends that people avoid sugary foods while on the drug. “If you are taking medication to lower your sugar levels, it is advisable to avoid excess sugar consumption,” Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, MD, FAAP, FOMA, tells Parade. “Failure to watch what you eat and keep your sugar levels elevated may prevent you from seeing the intended results of the medication,” she shares.”

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Ultra-processed foods can make side effects of Ozempic worse. “This medication slows down gastric emptying and the dense food will move much slower through your intestines, which can make you feel sick [and experience] nausea, vomiting, reflux and abdominal pain,” says Dr. Peralta-Reich. “Someone may not see the results they're looking for either.”

High-Fat Foods

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Foods high in saturated and trans fats can make side effects of Ozempic worse. Some people complain of diarrhea and stomach pains. “I’ve seen an almost dumping syndrome-like response in people taking GLP-1s when they eat simple carbohydrates and high-fat foods,” Dr. Shauna Levy, a specialist in obesity medicine and medical director of the Tulane Bariatric and Weight Loss Center in New Orleans, tells TODAY.

Sitting All Day

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Staying active is important while on Ozempic. Regular exercise is not only important for health, it can prevent muscle loss. The goal should be fat loss, and getting strong.

Not Hydrating

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Don’t forget to drink your water and stay hydrated. Drinking water can help with side effects of Ozempic, especially nausea. Ozempic.com recommends drinking clear or ice-cold drinks to combat any nausea and discomfort.

Too Much Alcohol

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Avoid alcohol on Ozempic, experts advice. “One, it’s just empty calories. Two, it tends to make people make decisions that they otherwise might not make,” says Dr. Levy. “It could increase hunger, and the whole point of GLP-1s, or at least one of the points, is to decrease hunger. So it sort of negates their purpose.”

Be Mindful of Portions

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Ozempic keeps food in the stomach longer, so bigger portions can cause discomfort. “Understanding that overall portions are smaller on these medications, we want to optimize nutritional intake and consume the ‘best’ calories available,” obesity medicine physician Dr. Christopher McGowan tells TODAY. “The focus should be on lean protein, healthy fruits and vegetables, adequate fiber and adequate fluid intake.”

Be Mindful of Coffee

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“Overall, coffee is perfectly fine to consume, but for some individuals can lead to stomach irritation,” says Dr. McGowan. “Therefore, I recommend drinking coffee in moderation, such as one to two cups a day. Patients should also be mindful of calorie-dense additives, like cream and sugar.”

Don’t Skip Meals

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It’s easy to skip meals when on Ozempic, but make sure you’re getting enough nutrition. Some people have even become malnourished as a result of not eating. “It’s never healthy to not eat,” Dr. Hwang said. Dr. Janice Jin Hwang, the division chief of endocrinology and metabolism at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine tells the New York Times.

Don’t Consider It a Quick Fix

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Ozempic should be part of a long-term health plan. “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.”

Same Unhealthy Lifestyle

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Don’t continue an unhealthy diet and assume it’s ok because of Ozempic. “You can likely lose weight on semaglutide medications without changing your diet and activity behaviors, but these lifestyle changes will make the treatment more effective,” Richard Siegel, MD, tells the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. “Also, we don’t know if weight loss will have the same health benefits if one does not change their behaviors.”

Protect Your Health

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Some doctors warn that taking Ozempic can make people complacent about their health. “It is important to remember that obesity is heterogenous, chronic and complex,” Vijaya Surampudi, MD, physician nutrition specialist and assistant director of the UCLA Weight Management Program (RFO), tells UCLA Health. “There is no cure for obesity. It requires lifelong treatment that’s not one size fits all.”

Carbonated Beverages

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Ozempic slows down digestion, keeping food in your stomach for longer. This causes a feeling of fullness and some unpleasant side effects for some people like belching. Stick to still water as carbonated beverages can make stomach issues worse.

Long-Term Goals

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If you plan on only taking Ozempic or Wegovy for a short while, it’s likely your weight will come back on. “In one trial of Wegovy, people regained about two-thirds of the weight lost within a year of stopping the drug,” Dr. Siegel explains. “Lifestyle changes can help maintain weight loss, but it’s unusual to maintain all weight loss once you stop any weight loss medication.”

Refined Carbohydrates

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Refined carbohydrates tend to spike blood sugar, which is exactly what Ozempic is meant to treat. You don’t have to cut these foods out entirely, but be aware it makes it harder for Ozempic to do its job. “Foods like white bread, white rice, crackers, or even cereals may seem like better choices than foods with added sugar, but refined carbohydrates still metabolize as glucose in the body,” Christine Fallabel, MPH, tells Diabetes Strong.

Watch Out For High Fiber

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While many green vegetables are low GI, be careful about the fiber. “If you’re not used to eating a lot of vegetables, you may experience side effects such as bloating and gas, until your body has acclimated to eating a more fiber-filled diet,” Fallabel says.

Junk Food

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Junk food—which you should be avoiding either way for weight loss purposes—often contains high levels of sodium. “Ultra-processed foods are high in sodium, saturated fats and added sugars, which contribute to a range of health problems,” Elizabeth Ko, MD, and Eve Glazier, MD, tell UCLA Health. These include an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lowered immune response, certain cancers, dementia and early death.”

Spicy Foods

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Ozempic can cause acid reflux due to slow digestion. Spicy foods can make acid reflux worse, experts warn. However, if acid reflux is not an issue, people can probably enjoy spicy foods if they wish.

Always See a Medical Professional

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Ozempic should only be prescribed by a medical professional. “Typically, I prescribe Ozempic for diabetes and have more often prescribed Wegovy for weight loss,” endocrinologist Alyssa Dominguez, MD, tells Keck Medicine. “I have used Ozempic, sometimes, off-label for weight loss, though getting insurance approval for that can be challenging.”

Fried Foods

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Fried, greasy foods can make Ozempic stomach issues worse. “Foods high in fat can make digestive side effects worse. Since food hangs around longer in the stomach, it has more time to cause problems,” Sarah Bullard, MS, RD, LD, tells Signos. “Some studies have shown that consuming too much fat can increase symptoms of fullness, nausea, and bloating in individuals with digestive issues and heartburn. Reducing fat intake resolved symptoms.”

💪🔥Body Booster: A whole foods Mediterranean diet is ideal while taking Ozempic.

Sophie van Oostenbrugg gainsbybrains
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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.

Do you want to get your glutes sculpted for summer? Sophie van Oostenbrugg is a fitness trainer and the founder of the Gains with Brains app. She regularly shares workouts with her 2.4 million Instagram followers on how to burn fat and build muscle. “I grew up hearing that women should be as small as possible. That’s why I loved being able to share my bulking journey on social. I’ve done 2 bulks so far.. and I was thinking about starting and sharing a 3rd one,” she wrote in a recent post. She also revealed her “medium leg day” workout, which will help you tone up fast.

She Does Multiple Leg Days a Week

“I have good news today..it’s a medium leg day!!!🫣🤭sooo I split my leg workouts & currently have lighter, medium and heavier days. this helps me with recovery, train through a variety of rep ranges and make it more enjoyable,” she explains in the post.

She Does 8 to 12 Reps of Each Exercise

In the video she explains that she has “multiple leg days per week.” She goes onto reveal all of the exercises she does with “rep ranges from 8 to 12.”

RDLS

“I started with RDLs, four sets of eight,” Sophie reveals. To do Romanian deadlifts, start with both legs pressed evenly on the floor. “Slightly bend knees while bending over,” says The Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian. “Keep your arms pointing down toward the floor and lower with you almost touching the floor. Keep hips and shoulders square facing forward throughout the exercise. Return to standing.” She suggests repeating 10 to 12 times with the right leg and repeating on the left side. “Progression includes holding a weight in the arm pointing toward the floor,” she adds.

Sumo Squat with Kettlebell

“Then I moved on to a sumo squat with kettlebell. You know the deal, form over everything, so go slow and control the weight,” she says. Sumo squats are similar to regular squats, only you point your toes outward.

Glute Bridges

“Then I did glute bridges,” Sophie continues. You can do glute bridges with or without weights.

Cable Step Up

Next up? Cable step ups, using an exercise block. “These are great as they help with balance and therefore they're easier to overload,” she says.

Seated Leg Curl

She sits down at a machine. “Then I did a seated leg curl,” she says.

Core Exercise

“I finished with some core exercises,” Sophie concludes. “I want to get my core as strong as humanly possible so I can keep recording more intense ab workouts.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try splitting up your workouts into light, medium, and intense days to allow your body ample time needed to recover.