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She Lost 30 Pounds With GLP-1 Microdosing: “My Body Just Thrived”

Discover how the lowest dose of tirzepatide led to sustainable weight loss.

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.

Madison_Loethen9
Copyright madisonloethen/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.

When hormonal imbalances and unexplained weight gain strike, finding a sustainable solution can feel overwhelming. For Madison Loethen, a wellness enthusiast and mother of two, the answer came through an unconventional approach - using the minimum dose of a GLP-1 medication. Her story challenges common assumptions about these popular weight loss medications and offers hope for those seeking a gentler approach to metabolic healing. Here's how she achieved remarkable results while staying on the lowest possible dose.


Why Microdosing Made Sense

"I was having all sorts of hormonal imbalance issues and saw weight gain that I had never seen before in my life," Madison explains in her post. With her BMI reaching 27 (overweight range) and concerns about her heart condition, she chose the compound tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound. "I would consider 2.5mg a microdose because most of the language that Eli Lilly puts out says that a therapeutic dose is considered 5mg or above."

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

The Unexpected Early Results

Madison's body responded immediately to the treatment. "In that first week, I actually lost nine pounds," she shares, noting this initial loss was largely water weight. More importantly, she continued to lose 1-3 pounds consistently each week at the same low dose. "I lost most of my weight of the 30 pounds in the first four months on the 2.5mg dose."

Finding Balance With Side Effects

The lower dose strategy helped keep side effects manageable. "On week two of my dose of the 2.5, I did start seeing side effects," Madison notes. "I still saw three pounds lost, but I did start to feel some nausea and fatigue, a little GI upset. Days two through four after my shots, nothing that made me want to quit the therapy."

Building a Strong Foundation

Madison emphasizes using the medication as a launching pad for lifestyle changes. "I was using this medication as a tool to totally change my lifestyle habits," she says. She adopted a high-protein, low-carb diet and incorporated strength training. "It prevents muscle loss, improves your metabolism, and it's really great for people who have PCOS."

The Benefits of Compound Medicine

"I love the compounds. If I even had the choice, if it was like 50-50, the same amount of money between the compound and the name brand, I would stick to the compound," Madison shares. The flexibility allowed her to customize her dosing strategy in ways not possible with name-brand options.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Creating Sustainable Habits

Success came through combining medication with strategic eating patterns. "I'm going to have significant portions of protein at every meal. And then my hunger is really controlled throughout the day," Madison explains. She implemented intermittent fasting: "Having an eating window when I know I'm allowed to eat and when I try not to eat is so helpful."

Smart Tapering Strategy

After reaching her goal, Madison approached tapering methodically. "That fifth month, I dropped to a half dose," she explains. During this phase, she focused on developing coping strategies as natural hunger returned. "I did start to feel more hungry, and I did start to have a little more cravings and more food noise."

Life After Treatment

The results have proven sustainable. "I've completely maintained my weights," Madison reports one month after completing treatment. "I think my time on the medication helped kill some of those cravings, which is really helpful." She maintains success through balanced habits and self-compassion: "I try to give myself a lot of grace, not guilt myself, not throw in the towel."

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

Important Medical Context

According to Mayo Clinic, Tirzepatide requires proper medical supervision as it's primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity caused by certain medical conditions. The medication isn't suitable for everyone, particularly those with a certain medical history, including pancreatitis, kidney disease, or diabetic retinopathy.

Safety and Monitoring

The standard starting dose is 2.5 milligrams weekly, with potential increases based on individual response and doctor supervision. Regular medical check-ups and proper storage are essential for safety and effectiveness. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress through regular testing to ensure the medication is working properly and safely.

Making an Informed Decision

While Madison's success with microdosing provides an innovative perspective, remember that treatment plans should be individualized. The decision to use tirzepatide should be made carefully with your healthcare provider, considering your specific medical history, goals, and potential risks and benefits. Your doctor can help determine if this approach might be right for you and what dosing strategy would work best for your situation. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

More For You

Jasmine Martin jasminesglp1life
Copyright jasminesglp1life/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.

Do you want to maximize your results on Ozempic? One weight loss warrior on a Mounjaro/Tirzepatide/Zepbound journey has some tips on how to do that. Jasmine Martin has lost over 80 pounds on a weight loss drug, but not just from injections. In a new post, she reveals the other habits that have been helpful on her journey. “5 things I did to lose over 80 lbs on GLP-1 (and NO, it’s not just about taking a shot!),” she writes. “Here’s what REALLY worked for me.”

A Clean, Low-Sugar Diet

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The first that worked for her? “Sticking to a clean, low-sugar diet,” she writes. “I also really was able to cut out snacking and cut down on portions with the help of a GLP-1.”

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

Moving Daily

Brunette woman in a yellow sweater climbing up the stairs.Shutterstock/Pavel_Kostenko

“Prioritizing movement every day,” is another one of her to-to habits, “even if it’s taking the stairs instead of the elevator,” she says. “At one point I was walking to the third floor at work every time I had to pee, just for the exercise!”

Staying Consistent with Protein and Vitamins

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Another thing that helped her? “Staying consistent with my vitamin and protein intake,” she writes. “Prioritize protein! It’ll keep you full longer and help with muscle retention.”

Hydration

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Hydration is another key habit, which involves “drinking more water than I ever thought possible,” she says. “I fill up a Stanley size cup about 3-5 times a day!”

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Trusting the Process

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Her final habit? Sticking to the plan. “Staying patient and trusting the process even when I was discouraged,” she says, adding that “it’s all about mindset!”

There Were Also a Lot of Things She Didn’t Expect to Happen

Montreal, CA - 16 November 2023: Ozempic semaglutide injection pens. Ozempic is a medication for obesity​Beyond Weight Loss: Understanding GLP-1 BenefitsShutterstock

In another post, she reveals a few things she “didn’t expect” when she went on a GLP-1 for weight loss. “If I could go back to the beginning of my GLP-1 journey, I’d tell myself to keep things slow, be patient, and embrace the process. It’s not about rushing to see results; it’s about building sustainable habits for the future.”

She Didn’t Expect to Be So Motivated

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The first thing she didn’t expect was the motivation she was given by going on a GLP-1. “That weightloss success would bring the most motivation I’ve ever had to keep pushing limits with my fitness,” she explains.

That It Would Be Easier to Stick to a Healthy Diet

Qawra, Malta - 21.08.2024 - Semaglutide, Ozempic. Drug for diabetes and weight loss. Close up on injector pen in hands. High quality photo​GLP-1s Signal to the Brain You Are FullShutterstock

Another thing she didn’t expect? “How much easier sticking to a balanced diet would be,” she writes. “I didn’t even realize what normal was, before I experienced ‘normal’ on a GLP-1.”

The Confidence She Got

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Another thing she didn’t expect was how confident losing weight would make her. “The confidence I’d have to help others on the same journey,” she says.

That It Would Fix Other Health Issues

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She was also surprised that due to going on a GLP-1 and losing weight, other health problems were fixed. “That it would fix a multitude of health issues, outside of obesity - inflammation, IBS, minimize joint pain, improve my mental health,” she says.

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

It’s a Journey, Not a Destination

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The final revelation she had? “It’s a journey, not a destination. No one tells you how much you’ll change in ways that go far beyond just losing weight,” she writes. “You may end up reaching your goal weight, but you’ll never reach a final destination, because your personal health & fitness is always evolving. Once you realize you’re capable of being healthy again, you’ll move the goal post multiple times - and that’s the best part of the entire journey.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Brittany Rose GLP1
Copyright Brittany Rose GLP1/YouTube
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Weight loss journeys often feel like navigating a maze with too many dead ends and false promises. For Brittany Rose, GLP-1 medications finally provided the key that unlocked sustainable success, helping her shed over 100 pounds since November 2022. Through her candid YouTube videos, she's documented everything from her very first injection to her current maintenance phase, sharing both triumphs and challenges along the way. If you're considering or already using GLP-1 therapy, these essential insights from someone who's walked the path will help you avoid common pitfalls and focus on what truly matters for your success.

Trust Only Your Doctor With Dosing Decisions

When it comes to medication management, only one opinion truly matters. "Your decisions regarding your dosaging, regarding how often you take the medicine, regarding anything that involves injecting a medicine into your body should only be discussedwith or you should only take advice from your doctor," Brittany says in her post. Despite the wealth of dosing advice floating around online, these are medical decisions that should remain between you and your healthcare provider. Brittany always frames her experiences as personal rather than prescriptive, reminding viewers that what works for one person could be dangerous for another.

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

It's Not As Complicated As The Internet Claims

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The GLP-1 journey doesn't require elaborate supplement regimens or extreme dietary restrictions. "It's simple. It's a simple thing. You do not need to stress about all of the extra protein supplements and all the extra vitamins and all of the extra things that the internet will tell you that you need," Brittany states firmly. She advocates for a sustainable approach—eating healthy foods most of the time while maintaining a calorie deficit that comes naturally with GLP-1 medications. Brittany notes that unlike temporary diets, this is a lifestyle change: "We're going back to, this isn't a diet. This isn't something that you need to obsess over. This is something that you are doing for most likely the rest of your life."

Water Will Save Your GLP-1 Experience

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The simplest remedy for many GLP-1 side effects costs nothing and requires no prescription. "Water is going to save your life," Brittany insists, explaining that proper hydration addresses multiple common complaints: "Being dehydrated makes your body retain water. It makes you not feel good. It makes you be puffy. It makes you have a headache. It makes you be constipated." She notes that her worst days consistently correlate with inadequate water intake. Her practical tip for staying hydrated? Keep a dedicated water cup by the sink as a constant reminder, taking small sips throughout the day rather than forcing down large amounts at once.

Your Journey Won't Look Like Anyone Else's

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Comparing your progress to others online can quickly become discouraging. "Monitor your own progress and try not to compare yourself to everybody else," Brittany advises after noticing how other content creators reached milestones faster than she did. She recommends keeping a detailed journal tracking everything from dosages to reactions, along with regular photos to document changes that might not register on the scale. Brittany also suggests limiting social media consumption around GLP-1 content: "I have a couple of people that I watch or listen to and the rest of it, I don't... because I don't want to oversaturate myself and be getting information from so many different sources."

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Therapy Is The Missing Prescription

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Perhaps the most overlooked component of successful weight loss is addressing the psychological factors that contributed to weight gain initially. "I am a very, very big advocate that most people that are taking a GLP-1 for weight loss need therapy," Brittany shares, drawing parallels to the mental health support required for bariatric surgery patients. She explains that significant weight loss transforms not just your body but your identity: "When you go through this journey of losing a ton of weight, you become a new person." For Brittany, therapy was essential to understanding how childhood trauma influenced her relationship with food. "I would argue all of us," she notes, have some past experiences that contributed to developing obesity, making therapy a crucial complement to medication.

Adopt The 80/20 Rule For Sustainable Success

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Rigid eating plans rarely lead to lasting change. Brittany recommends a more flexible approach: "80/20 rule—20% foods that you enjoy that you want to eat, 80% healthy food." This balance allows for occasional indulgences while maintaining overall healthy habits. "Are you going to be able to be keto or to eat zero sugar or zero carbs or whatever and completely eliminate total food groups for the rest of your life? Are you going to be able to never go to McDonald's ever again for the rest of your life? Right? Probably not," Brittany points out. By allowing yourself reasonable flexibility, you're building a lifestyle you can maintain long-term rather than setting yourself up for another cycle of restriction and rebound.

Document Your Transformation

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The value of visual records cannot be overstated. "Take the pictures. I wish that I had taken more before and after pictures," Brittany shares, noting that physical changes aren't always reflected on the scale. "Sometimes you're not losing weight, but you're losing inches, right? And so you want to have some pictures to look back on to really see how your body is changing throughout this process." These photos become powerful motivation during plateaus and provide tangible evidence of progress when numbers aren't moving. Consider creating a dedicated album on your phone or a physical journal where you can see your evolution month by month.

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

Counting Isn't Always Necessary

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Despite popular weight-loss advice, Brittany takes a more intuitive approach: "I don't count anything ever. I count protein sometimes like when I'm doing the videos on higher protein, I count them, but for the most part I don't count anything because I just don't want to." She points out that naturally slim people rarely count calories or macros: "And healthy, skinny people that have lived healthy their whole life, most of them don't." The medication's appetite-suppressing effects often naturally create a calorie deficit, making meticulous tracking unnecessary for many people. This freedom from constant counting can make the lifestyle change more sustainable and reduce obsessive food behaviors.

Make Hydration A Priority Habit

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If tracking feels overwhelming, focus on just one metric. "If you count one thing, make it be your water intake because I promise you on days that I don't drink my water or if I'm not as good about drinking water, oh boy, it's a bad day," Brittany emphasizes. GLP-1 medications can reduce thirst signals, making deliberate hydration essential. Her husband can even tell when she's dehydrated: "Chris will look at me and say, have you had any water today? Because he knows that it affects me that much." Setting specific water goals and creating visual reminders throughout your home and workspace can help maintain consistent hydration despite reduced thirst cues.

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

This Is A Transformation, Not Just Weight Loss

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The physical changes from GLP-1 therapy are just one aspect of a more profound transformation. "You go through this like glow up, you become this new person that you probably were always meant to be, but you transform," Brittany explains. This evolution affects everything from your self-image to your relationships with others. For Brittany, the journey enabled her to stop hiding: "You don't have a freaking YouTube channel that I share with the world that has grown significantly and people in real life are realizing it. And that prior to this journey for me would not have been something that I would have been able to do." Understanding that weight loss impacts your entire identity—not just your appearance—helps prepare you for both the challenges and opportunities of this life-changing process. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Amanda tallandtrimglp1
Copyright tallandtrimglp1/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.

We've all been there - trying to get healthy but feeling like nothing ever sticks. For Amanda, GLP-1 medication changed everything. "I started Tirzepatide to get my cravings under control and ended up losing 65 pounds," says Amanda, who now helps others navigate their own weight loss journeys. "If you've been feeling stuck or like nothing works anymore—this might be the thing that changes everything." Read on to discover her battle-tested strategies for managing side effects and maximizing results—practical tips that could make all the difference in your own GLP-1 journey.

What Exactly Is Tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide is a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, says Mayo Clinic. It's used for treating type 2 diabetes when combined with diet and exercise to help control blood sugar. Tirzepatide is also approved for weight loss, helping patients with obesity lose weight and keep it off. Additionally, it's used to treat moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in obese patients.

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

Beat the Nausea Blues

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Those first weeks on GLP-1 medication can be rough. Amanda remembers it well: "That first month came with a wave of side effects I didn't expect. Nausea was the worst—it made me second-guess everything." She recommends sipping electrolytes throughout the day and eating small amounts regularly. "Making sure I had something in my stomach—small bites made a big difference," Amanda explains in one of her posts. Don't hesitate to take anti-nausea medication if your doctor prescribed it.

Gastrointestinal side effects are common with Tirzepatide. According to Mayo Clinic, the medication is administered as a shot under the skin of your stomach, thighs, or upper arm. You should use a different body area each time you give yourself a shot and keep track of injection sites to properly rotate them. The liquid in the pen should be clear and colorless to slightly yellow, and you should use a new needle each time.

Prevent Those Dizzy Spells

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Many people mistake low blood sugar symptoms for medication side effects. "I was feeling foggy, lightheaded, and shaky... and thought it was the GLP-1 messing with me," Amanda recalls. "But really? My blood sugar was crashing because I wasn't eating enough." She now prioritizes protein within two hours of waking up and keeps easy snacks on hand. The goal isn't starvation. As Amanda puts it, "The goal with GLP-1 isn't to stop eating—it's to help you eat enough to feel good and still lose weight."

Hydrate More Than You Think

Cropped of young caucasian sportswoman drinking water after training on green lawn. Girl with tattoos and closed eyes wearing sportswear and earphones in sunny park. Healthy lifestyleShutterstock

When your appetite decreases, thirst signals often diminish too. "Water is NOT optional on this stuff," Amanda insists. "GLP-1s don't just suppress hunger—they also suppress thirst, which can make staying hydrated way harder than expected." She recommends keeping water bottles in every room and adding electrolytes daily. This simple habit can reduce headaches, nausea, fatigue, and constipation—all common medication side effects that proper hydration helps manage.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Don't Confuse Less Hunger with Less Need

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One of the trickiest mindset shifts is understanding that reduced hunger doesn't mean reduced nutritional needs. "I used to think not being hungry meant I was winning... like if I could just survive on coffee and skip meals, I was doing it 'right,'" Amanda admits. This approach left her exhausted. Now she focuses on fueling her body even when not hungry, prioritizing protein in small meals. As Amanda learned, "GLP-1 helped me reset my hunger cues, but it's still a learning curve—and that's okay."

Try Evening Dosing

Mounjaro - Tirzepatide with injection pen is an antidiabetic medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes to lose weight and control blood sugar. Copenhagen, Denmark - November 8, 2023.​What Research ShowsShutterstock

If side effects are disrupting your days, consider changing when you take your medication. "Try taking your shot in the evening and sleep through the side effects," suggests Amanda, who lost 65 pounds on Tirzepatide. This simple schedule shift allows you to rest through the initial hours when side effects are often strongest. Combined with staying hydrated and adding a pinch of salt to your water, this strategy can make your GLP-1 journey much more comfortable.

Keep Healthy Snacks Ready

Close up of entrepreneur woman hands holding cereal snack bar working on laptop at home office​Protein barsShutterstock

The appetite-suppressing effects of GLP-1 medications can make regular meals challenging. Amanda recommends preparing protein-rich options you'll actually want to eat. "I focus on snacks I actually want to eat – cheese sticks, protein bars, even a few bites of cottage cheese," she says. Having these ready before hunger strikes helps prevent blood sugar crashes that can trigger headaches and fatigue. Small, consistent fuel keeps your energy stable even when your appetite says you're not hungry.

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

Give Yourself Time to Adjust

Basrah, Iraq - November 24, 2023: photo of Mounjaro Weight Loss Pen in hand​Understanding Your New Relationship with FoodShutterstock

The adjustment period varies for everyone, but most people find side effects ease after the first month. "If you're in that early phase, hang in there. This part doesn't last forever—and you're doing better than you think," Amanda encourages. The weight loss journey with GLP-1 medication is about finding sustainable habits that work for your body. As Amanda discovered after losing 65 pounds, "This journey is about feeling better, not just eating less."According to Mayo Clinic, Tirzepatide is used once weekly (every 7 days) and can be taken with or without meals at any time of day. For best results, it should be used on the same day each week. It's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully and to use Tirzepatide as part of a comprehensive approach that includes diet and exercise. While managing side effects is important, remember that Tirzepatide works by helping you feel full sooner and keeping food in your stomach longer, reducing your appetite and the amount of food you eat. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

The struggle with weight loss can feel overwhelming, even when you're doing everything "right." For Juls, a former competitive gymnast, certified personal trainer, and gymnastics coach, this struggle was all too familiar. Despite her athletic background, she found sustainable weight loss elusive until she combined GLP-1 medications with three specific strategies. At 53, she's not only lost over 50 pounds but has successfully maintained her weight loss for over a year. Here's her complete journey and the three game-changing tricks that worked together to transform her health.

The Breaking Point

"I wasn't happy with the way I looked, the way I felt, and my blood work was not good," Juls recalls about her state in spring 2022. Despite running 3-5 miles five to six days a week and eating healthy, she only lost 5-6 pounds in four months. At 5'1" with a 34-inch waist circumference, she discovered her measurements indicated insulin resistance and potential pre-diabetes.

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

The GLP-1 Journey Begins

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In September 2022, Juls started Ozempic. "The scale started to drop, and I didn't change anything," she shares. Unlike many users, she experienced minimal side effects. "Really I've had none other than fatigue," she notes. When progress plateaued, she switched to Wegovy at maximum dosage. After another four-month stall, her doctor recommended Mounjaro/Zepbound (tirzepatide), which successfully restarted her progress.

Trick 1: The Foundation of Strength Training

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"When you're on this peptide, you must strength train," Juls emphasizes. "If you don't protect your lean muscle by eating enough protein and doing some strength training, you will lose muscle mass. And that is a disaster." She recommends starting with just two 15-20 minute sessions weekly, noting that this foundation supports the effectiveness of the other strategies by maintaining metabolism and improving insulin sensitivity.

Trick 2: Strategic Food Tracking for Success

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While GLP-1s helped control appetite, Juls discovered that tracking food intake was crucial for optimization. "I was ambivalent about tracking at first because I thought it would be kind of annoying and time consuming," she admits. However, this practice became essential for making informed adjustments when progress slowed. "It really was actually easy, and I'm still doing it to this day because it's just a habit at this point. I actually enjoy it and it takes minutes out of the day."

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Trick 3: The Whole Foods Approach

The third trick proved crucial for minimizing side effects and maximizing results. "I knew not to eat junk food or super high-fat foods," Juls shares. "I've always eaten really healthy and lots of whole foods... that's definitely going to just stress your gut less." This approach, combined with gradually eliminating sugar and alcohol starting in October 2022, enhanced the effectiveness of both her strength training and tracking efforts.

How These Strategies Work Together

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The combination of these three strategies created a synergistic effect. The strength training preserved muscle mass and boosted metabolism, while food tracking ensured proper nutrition to support workouts. The whole foods approach minimized side effects, making it easier to stay consistent with both training and tracking. "These peptides help create insulin sensitivity," Juls explains. "They make it easier for your muscles to take up glucose instead of it being stored as fat."

The Mental Transformation

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Beyond physical changes, Juls experienced a profound mental shift. "You don't even realize you have food noise until you don't have it anymore," she shares, describing the constant mental chatter about food that disappeared. "Finally now at the age of 53, I feel normal. I feel good. I feel in control." This mental clarity has helped her maintain consistency with all three strategies.

A Year of Successful Maintenance

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Now maintaining her weight loss for over a year, Juls continues her weekly injections while focusing on building muscle and strength. Her maintenance success stems from consistently applying all three strategies: strength training, tracking, and whole foods focus. "This is an ongoing journey that never ends," she reflects. "The key is making sure all the habits and lifestyle changes are something that are going to be long-term."

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

Advice for Others Starting Their Journey

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For those considering GLP-1s, Juls emphasizes the importance of combining medication with proper strategies: "Don't be afraid of these. If you are a candidate and you've tried everything, go on them. I've never been lazy. I have an incredible amount of discipline. It just doesn't always work for everyone, especially when your metabolic state is already compromised. This helps to make it better." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Madison_Loethen9
Copyright madisonloethen/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.

When hormonal imbalances and unexplained weight gain strike, finding a sustainable solution can feel overwhelming. For Madison Loethen, a wellness enthusiast and mother of two, the answer came through an unconventional approach - using the minimum dose of a GLP-1 medication. Her story challenges common assumptions about these popular weight loss medications and offers hope for those seeking a gentler approach to metabolic healing. Here's how she achieved remarkable results while staying on the lowest possible dose.


Why Microdosing Made Sense

"I was having all sorts of hormonal imbalance issues and saw weight gain that I had never seen before in my life," Madison explains in her post. With her BMI reaching 27 (overweight range) and concerns about her heart condition, she chose the compound tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound. "I would consider 2.5mg a microdose because most of the language that Eli Lilly puts out says that a therapeutic dose is considered 5mg or above."

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

The Unexpected Early Results

Madison's body responded immediately to the treatment. "In that first week, I actually lost nine pounds," she shares, noting this initial loss was largely water weight. More importantly, she continued to lose 1-3 pounds consistently each week at the same low dose. "I lost most of my weight of the 30 pounds in the first four months on the 2.5mg dose."

Finding Balance With Side Effects

The lower dose strategy helped keep side effects manageable. "On week two of my dose of the 2.5, I did start seeing side effects," Madison notes. "I still saw three pounds lost, but I did start to feel some nausea and fatigue, a little GI upset. Days two through four after my shots, nothing that made me want to quit the therapy."

Building a Strong Foundation

Madison emphasizes using the medication as a launching pad for lifestyle changes. "I was using this medication as a tool to totally change my lifestyle habits," she says. She adopted a high-protein, low-carb diet and incorporated strength training. "It prevents muscle loss, improves your metabolism, and it's really great for people who have PCOS."

The Benefits of Compound Medicine

"I love the compounds. If I even had the choice, if it was like 50-50, the same amount of money between the compound and the name brand, I would stick to the compound," Madison shares. The flexibility allowed her to customize her dosing strategy in ways not possible with name-brand options.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Creating Sustainable Habits

Success came through combining medication with strategic eating patterns. "I'm going to have significant portions of protein at every meal. And then my hunger is really controlled throughout the day," Madison explains. She implemented intermittent fasting: "Having an eating window when I know I'm allowed to eat and when I try not to eat is so helpful."

Smart Tapering Strategy

After reaching her goal, Madison approached tapering methodically. "That fifth month, I dropped to a half dose," she explains. During this phase, she focused on developing coping strategies as natural hunger returned. "I did start to feel more hungry, and I did start to have a little more cravings and more food noise."

Life After Treatment

The results have proven sustainable. "I've completely maintained my weights," Madison reports one month after completing treatment. "I think my time on the medication helped kill some of those cravings, which is really helpful." She maintains success through balanced habits and self-compassion: "I try to give myself a lot of grace, not guilt myself, not throw in the towel."

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

Important Medical Context

According to Mayo Clinic, Tirzepatide requires proper medical supervision as it's primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity caused by certain medical conditions. The medication isn't suitable for everyone, particularly those with a certain medical history, including pancreatitis, kidney disease, or diabetic retinopathy.

Safety and Monitoring

The standard starting dose is 2.5 milligrams weekly, with potential increases based on individual response and doctor supervision. Regular medical check-ups and proper storage are essential for safety and effectiveness. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress through regular testing to ensure the medication is working properly and safely.

Making an Informed Decision

While Madison's success with microdosing provides an innovative perspective, remember that treatment plans should be individualized. The decision to use tirzepatide should be made carefully with your healthcare provider, considering your specific medical history, goals, and potential risks and benefits. Your doctor can help determine if this approach might be right for you and what dosing strategy would work best for your situation. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Orisha Rè Lampkin Re fearlessrevolutionfitness
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Expert-Recommended

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Do you want to lose weight and transform your body? Orisha Rè Lampkin, sensual fitness instructor and founder of Fearless Re'volution, helps ambitious, high-achieving women reconnect with their bodies, ignite their sensual energy, get fit, and lead their lives fearlessly and unapologetically. She went from a size 12 to a size 2, 167 lbs to 130, and wants to help others do the same. She reveals to Body Network that making three simple tweaks to her routine was game-changing, in more ways than one. “After over 30 years in the health and wellness space, you’d think I had it all figured out. But my body taught me something powerful: it wasn’t about working harder but working with myself. These three small changes—each one intentional, aligned, and deeply feminine—completely transformed my body, energy, and confidence,” she says.

I Switched from “More” to “Smarter” Strength

The first thing she did? “I used to be the ‘more reps, more burn’ type. But when I hit 40, that approach started to backfire—hello joint pain, fatigue, and plateaus. I pivoted to corrective and functional strength training, using the principles I’m certified in. My workouts now center around movement quality, not quantity—glute activation, shoulder mobility, and stabilizer strength,” she says.

How It Helped

The result? “Less inflammation, a more sculpted physique, and a body that feels strong, sexy, and resilient from the inside out. I finally look like I'm training, but I also feel like I’m thriving,” she says.

I Added Feminine Flow to My Conditioning

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“Along with the high-impact Tabata and circuits I used to live by, I began weaving in feminine flow—short sensual HIIT sessions that move with my energy instead of against it. These aren’t watered-down workouts. They’re precise, rhythm-driven, and deeply intuitive. I go hard when I’m peaking, then I melt into slow, fluid recovery phases that still burn—but feel like dance,” she tells us.

How It Helped

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How did it help her? “Especially during perimenopause, this shift helped me lean out without crashing my system. I stay fit, feminine, and magnetic—and I never feel like I’m punishing my body just to earn results,” she says.

I Always Activate My Sensual Core

“This one might surprise people: I never skip core—but I no longer isolate it with crunches. Every workout I do includes standing core engagement through pelvic tilts, spirals, rib cage mobility, and deep core activations. Think sensual strength with a purpose,” she explains.

How It Helped

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“These movements fire up the inner core (yes, including the pelvic floor), improve posture, and shape the waistline naturally. But more than anything? They make me feel powerful, centered, and like I own every room I walk into,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Aliza Olive, MD 2025 glp1enhanced
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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 on Ozempic or another GLP-1 and want to lose weight faster? “WARNING: Scrolling past the 7 W’s is a GLP-1 Mistake!” Aliza Olive, MD, a weight loss expert who co-founded GLP1Enhanced to help people on their weight loss journeys, writes in a new social media post. “You know that feeling when you’re doing all the things… but the scale’s moving slower than a sloth on NyQuil? Ever feel like you’re missing the secret sauce? Like, what’s the ONE thing keeping the scale from budging? So, you start searching for the one missing piece—maybe a secret supplement or that one viral hack… Except, real results don’t come from magic. The real results, that will last a lifetime, come from mastering The 7 W’s,” she claims. Here they are:

Weights

Weights, aka strength training, is a great way to lose weight faster on Ozempic. “Lift at least 2x per week. Muscle = faster metabolism = easier fat loss,” says Dr. Olive. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills.

Whole Foods

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Designing your diet around whole foods is also helpful. “Protein, fiber, and nutrients first (especially on GLP-1s)… but still room for the foods you love. Balance wins every time,” she writes.

Water

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Water and hydration are also essential. “Helps keep things… moving and keeps fake hunger at bay,” Dr. Olive explains. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential for various reasons. Water helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Walking

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Dr. Olive also recommends walking 8- 10k steps daily. It helps with “digestion support + calorie burn without exhausting yourself,” she says. A 2018 study published in Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes.

Wake Up

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She also recommends waking up at a reasonable time. “Stop snoozing. The longer you lay there, the more excuses creep in. Just get up,” she says.

Wins

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She also recommends focusing on wins. “Start your day with one small win (like water before coffee) and ride that momentum,” she says.

Weekends

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And, finally, don’t neglect yourself on weekends. “Not every weekend is special. If they all were, none of them would be. Find ways to enjoy yourself without feeling like Monday is a reset,” she says.

Bottom Line

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The bottom line? Consistency and good habits will take you fat. “No gimmicks. No magic pills. Just small, powerful shifts that actually work,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Dr Jennifer McCann The GYN MD
Copyright The GYN MD/YouTube
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Weight management medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists have transformed treatment options for many struggling with obesity, but they come with significant costs and potential pitfalls. Dr. Jennifer McCann, a board-certified OB/GYN and Obesity Medicine specialist, warns that simply taking these medications without proper guidance can lead to disappointing results. "As a provider, I'm frustrated because there are a lot of providers prescribing this medicine without any counseling about lifestyle changes with diet and exercise," says Dr. McCann. Understanding the right approach to these medications could save you thousands of dollars and prevent the frustrating weight regain cycle that many experience.

Muscle loss undermines your success

The weight you lose on GLP medications might come back with a vengeance if you're not careful about how you lose it. "If you're just starving yourself, you're gonna be losing your lean body mass and you're gonna gain the weight back and maybe even more," Dr. McCann cautions in her post. The reason is simple but often overlooked – muscle burns calories continuously throughout the day, and when you lose muscle instead of fat, your metabolism slows down. This metabolic downshift makes maintaining weight loss nearly impossible for many patients, according to Dr. McCann.

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

Protein intake becomes critical

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When appetite suppression kicks in, many patients struggle with getting adequate nutrition. Dr. McCann emphasizes that protein should be your top priority. "If you don't feel like eating on these medications, then you need to make sure you at least take in two things during the day," she advises. Those two non-negotiables are protein and water. Your muscles need protein to maintain their mass during weight loss, and without adequate intake, your body will break down muscle tissue for energy – exactly what you don't want during weight management.

Quality matters for protein sources

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Not all protein sources provide the same benefits during GLP-1 treatment. "I have always, for over a decade, recommended this Cornerstone meal replacement," says Dr. McCann. She explains that high-quality protein supplements with added vitamins and minerals can help ensure you're getting essential nutrients even when your appetite is significantly reduced. Two protein-rich meal replacements daily can provide the foundation your body needs while the medication works to control hunger and blood sugar levels.

Exercise preserves muscle function

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The second pillar of successful weight management on GLP medications is regular physical activity. "Resistance training is great. It helps build your muscle," Dr. McCann notes. You don't need to become a gym enthusiast overnight – even modest amounts of exercise make a difference. Dr. McCann suggests starting with just 15-20 minutes of activity and gradually increasing duration and intensity. This approach helps preserve muscle mass while the medication helps control appetite.

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

Compound medications are disappearing

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If you've been using compounded versions of GLP medications, significant changes are coming. "The compounded GLPs are gone," Dr. McCann states. She explains that tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Zepbound and Mounjaro) has been removed from the FDA shortage list, meaning compounding pharmacies can no longer legally produce it. Semaglutide (found in Ozempic and Wegovy) compounds will soon follow the same path, leaving many patients wondering about their options.

Manufacturer price drops offer relief

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Despite the end of compounded options, there's encouraging news for patients. "Don't panic. The companies have actually lowered their cash price, and this is great news for patients," Dr. McCann reassures. Brand-name manufacturers have introduced more affordable options in response to market demands and increased production capacity. These price reductions make the FDA-approved versions more accessible to patients who were previously relying on compounded alternatives.

Tirzepatide becomes more affordable

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For patients preferring tirzepatide (Zepbound/Mounjaro), Eli Lilly has created a more budget-friendly option. "Instead of having it in the auto-injectors, they are sending it in vials, just like the compounded pharmacies did," Dr. McCann explains in another post. This shift in delivery method allows for significant cost savings. According to Dr. McCann, patients can now get the 10mg dose for approximately $500 per month compared to $1,200-$1,500 for the auto-injector version when paying cash.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

How to access discounted medications

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Getting the discounted version requires specific steps. "Any prescriber should be able to send this from their EHR. They just have to look for the Eli Lilly pharmacy in their e-prescribe," says Dr. McCann. She notes that the 5mg, 7.5mg, and 10mg doses are all available at the $500 cash price. There's also an option for patients with insurance that doesn't cover the medication, priced around $650. These vials require self-injection rather than using the auto-injector device.

Special handling requirements

Ozempic Insulin injection pen or insulin cartridge pen for diabetics. Medical equipment for diabetes parients. Copenhagen, Denmark - December 15, 2023.

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These medications require proper storage to maintain effectiveness. "You do have a shipping cost in there. It does have to be shipped on ice because it needs to be refrigerated," Dr. McCann points out. This refrigeration requirement is standard for all GLP-1 medications, whether in vial or auto-injector form. The shipping costs add a small premium to the base price but still represent significant savings compared to previous options.

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

The bottom line on GLP success

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Success with GLP medications requires a comprehensive approach. "Protein, exercise, keep your muscle so you at least have a chance of keeping the weight off," summarizes Dr. McCann. While the medications provide powerful appetite control and metabolic benefits, they work best as part of a complete strategy. By focusing on preserving muscle mass through adequate protein intake and regular exercise, patients maximize their chances of maintaining weight loss long-term, even as medication options and pricing continue to evolve. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.