Skip to content
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.

Mother Of 2 Used GLP-1 Microdosing To Drop 30 Pounds And Keep It Off

Learn how successful weight loss is possible with lower doses of GLP-1 medications.

Madison_Loethen9

Have you ever felt frustrated by stubborn weight that just won't budge, despite your best efforts? You're not alone. Meet Madison Loethen, a mother of two who found herself struggling with unexpected weight gain and hormonal imbalances after pregnancy. Through her social media presence, Madison openly shares her health journey to help others facing similar challenges. Read on to discover how she achieved remarkable results with a unique approach to GLP-1 medication, while avoiding common pitfalls and high doses.


Why Consider Microdosing GLP-1 Medications

"I personally think there are a lot of benefits to microdosing," Madison explains in her post. "Side effects will be a lot less." Before starting treatment, her BMI was around 27, which she notes was unhealthy for her body type, especially given her history of heart disease. She emphasizes that while this might not be concerning for everyone, it was a significant health issue for her personally.

20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss

Understanding the Starting Dose

"I stayed on 2.5mg, which most language from the manufacturer considers the starting or loading dose," Madison shares. She maintained this dose for four months, during which she lost most of her 30-pound weight loss. "I was having all sorts of hormonal imbalance issues. I saw weight gain that I had never seen before in my life," she explains, highlighting how the medication helped address these underlying issues.

First Month Results

The initial response was dramatic but not typical. "In that first week, I actually lost nine pounds," Madison reveals. "Normal weight loss on a GLP-1 is typically between one and three pounds, but if you lose a ton of weight in that first week, a lot of times that means you were carrying just a ton of water weight." After the initial water weight loss, she consistently lost between one to three pounds per week.

Managing Side Effects Successfully

Side effects appeared during week two. "I did start to feel some nausea and fatigue, a little GI upset," Madison shares. "Days two through four after my shots, nothing that made me want to quit the therapy. I wasn't quite myself, but I was still so excited about this therapy and the benefits I was seeing with my body."

Creating a Comprehensive Lifestyle Plan

"I was using this medication as a tool to totally change my lifestyle habits," Madison emphasizes. With reduced cravings and urges to binge, she successfully transitioned to a high-protein, low-carb diet, which she found particularly beneficial for her PCOS management. The medication served as a tool to help establish sustainable habits rather than a standalone solution.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Effective Exercise Strategy

"I added strength training, which is really, really great on this medication," Madison explains. "It prevents muscle loss, improves your metabolism, and it's really great for people who have PCOS." Her weekly routine includes Pilates, full-body weight workouts, and regular cardio activities like walking uphill or using the stair stepper.

Building Sustainable Habits

Madison's approach to maintaining healthy habits is refreshingly balanced. "I try to give myself a lot of grace, not guilt myself, not throw in the towel," she shares. "If once a week I want to have a sweet treat, it's fine. If once a week intermittent fasting doesn't work out, it's fine. I don't throw away the day, I just start fresh the next meal."

Smart Transition Off Medication

"I didn't want to cold turkey get off the medication," Madison explains. Instead, she created a gradual transition plan: "I wanted to give my body time to get used to some of the hunger coming back, to solidify some coping strategies." She first reduced to half the starting dose (1.25mg) and then moved to alternating weeks before stopping completely.

Managing Hormonal Fluctuations

Post-treatment, Madison noticed patterns in her body's responses. "Around my cycle it gets a little bit harder," she admits. "I have more urges to overeat and intermittent fasting's a little bit harder." She adapted her approach based on research, noting that women might benefit from higher carb intake and modified fasting schedules around their menstrual cycles.

Long-Term Success Strategy

One month after completing treatment, Madison reports sustained success. "I've completely maintained my weight," she shares. "I don't feel totally overwhelmed by cravings and food noise. I think my time on the medication helped kill some of those cravings, which is really helpful."

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

Understanding Tirzepatide

Tirzepatide works as both a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. In simple terms, it helps control blood sugar levels and can assist with weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. The medication is available by prescription only and is FDA-approved for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Important Safety Considerations

Before starting tirzepatide, it's crucial to discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider. This is especially important if you have:

  • A history of pancreatitis
  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Depression or mental health concerns
  • Pregnancy plans, as the medication should not be used during pregnancy.

RELATED: She Lost 75 Lbs by Eating These 3 Foods That “Mimic” the Effects of Ozempic

Key Takeaways for Your Journey

"Not everyone's experience will look the same," Madison emphasizes. While her success with lower doses is inspiring, she acknowledges that each person's journey is unique: "A lot of people will have to titrate up to see weight loss. I personally was able to stay on these low doses and saw weight loss, saw benefits, and I just wanted to share my personal experience." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

More For You

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.

Have you ever felt frustrated by stubborn weight that just won't budge, despite your best efforts? You're not alone. Meet Madison Loethen, a mother of two who found herself struggling with unexpected weight gain and hormonal imbalances after pregnancy. Through her social media presence, Madison openly shares her health journey to help others facing similar challenges. Read on to discover how she achieved remarkable results with a unique approach to GLP-1 medication, while avoiding common pitfalls and high doses.


Why Consider Microdosing GLP-1 Medications

"I personally think there are a lot of benefits to microdosing," Madison explains in her post. "Side effects will be a lot less." Before starting treatment, her BMI was around 27, which she notes was unhealthy for her body type, especially given her history of heart disease. She emphasizes that while this might not be concerning for everyone, it was a significant health issue for her personally.

20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss

Understanding the Starting Dose

"I stayed on 2.5mg, which most language from the manufacturer considers the starting or loading dose," Madison shares. She maintained this dose for four months, during which she lost most of her 30-pound weight loss. "I was having all sorts of hormonal imbalance issues. I saw weight gain that I had never seen before in my life," she explains, highlighting how the medication helped address these underlying issues.

First Month Results

The initial response was dramatic but not typical. "In that first week, I actually lost nine pounds," Madison reveals. "Normal weight loss on a GLP-1 is typically between one and three pounds, but if you lose a ton of weight in that first week, a lot of times that means you were carrying just a ton of water weight." After the initial water weight loss, she consistently lost between one to three pounds per week.

Managing Side Effects Successfully

Side effects appeared during week two. "I did start to feel some nausea and fatigue, a little GI upset," Madison shares. "Days two through four after my shots, nothing that made me want to quit the therapy. I wasn't quite myself, but I was still so excited about this therapy and the benefits I was seeing with my body."

Creating a Comprehensive Lifestyle Plan

"I was using this medication as a tool to totally change my lifestyle habits," Madison emphasizes. With reduced cravings and urges to binge, she successfully transitioned to a high-protein, low-carb diet, which she found particularly beneficial for her PCOS management. The medication served as a tool to help establish sustainable habits rather than a standalone solution.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Effective Exercise Strategy

"I added strength training, which is really, really great on this medication," Madison explains. "It prevents muscle loss, improves your metabolism, and it's really great for people who have PCOS." Her weekly routine includes Pilates, full-body weight workouts, and regular cardio activities like walking uphill or using the stair stepper.

Building Sustainable Habits

Madison's approach to maintaining healthy habits is refreshingly balanced. "I try to give myself a lot of grace, not guilt myself, not throw in the towel," she shares. "If once a week I want to have a sweet treat, it's fine. If once a week intermittent fasting doesn't work out, it's fine. I don't throw away the day, I just start fresh the next meal."

Smart Transition Off Medication

"I didn't want to cold turkey get off the medication," Madison explains. Instead, she created a gradual transition plan: "I wanted to give my body time to get used to some of the hunger coming back, to solidify some coping strategies." She first reduced to half the starting dose (1.25mg) and then moved to alternating weeks before stopping completely.

Managing Hormonal Fluctuations

Post-treatment, Madison noticed patterns in her body's responses. "Around my cycle it gets a little bit harder," she admits. "I have more urges to overeat and intermittent fasting's a little bit harder." She adapted her approach based on research, noting that women might benefit from higher carb intake and modified fasting schedules around their menstrual cycles.

Long-Term Success Strategy

One month after completing treatment, Madison reports sustained success. "I've completely maintained my weight," she shares. "I don't feel totally overwhelmed by cravings and food noise. I think my time on the medication helped kill some of those cravings, which is really helpful."

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

Understanding Tirzepatide

Tirzepatide works as both a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. In simple terms, it helps control blood sugar levels and can assist with weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. The medication is available by prescription only and is FDA-approved for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Important Safety Considerations

Before starting tirzepatide, it's crucial to discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider. This is especially important if you have:

  • A history of pancreatitis
  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Depression or mental health concerns
  • Pregnancy plans, as the medication should not be used during pregnancy.

RELATED: She Lost 75 Lbs by Eating These 3 Foods That “Mimic” the Effects of Ozempic

Key Takeaways for Your Journey

"Not everyone's experience will look the same," Madison emphasizes. While her success with lower doses is inspiring, she acknowledges that each person's journey is unique: "A lot of people will have to titrate up to see weight loss. I personally was able to stay on these low doses and saw weight loss, saw benefits, and I just wanted to share my personal experience." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 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

Shutterstock

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

Shutterstock

"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

Shutterstock

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

Shutterstock

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

Shutterstock

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

Shutterstock

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

Shutterstock

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.

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

Woman,Eating,Grilled,Shrimp,With,Chopsticks.,Asian,Cuisine.,Wide,OpenShutterstock

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

vitamins in store​Replenish Stress-Depleted VitaminsShutterstock

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

Drink,Water,Pouring,In,To,Glass,hydrate,h2o​HydrateShutterstock

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

Winning, success and life goals concept. Young woman with arms in the air giving thumbs up.​Maintain Long-Term SuccessShutterstock

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

GDANSK, POLAND - MAY 2022: obese fat man preparing Semaglutide Ozempic injection control blood sugar levels​If You Lose Weight Soley Because of Ozempic, You Are Likely Losing MuscleShutterstock

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

Healthy young woman weighing herself on scale​And, How Many Pounds Per Week You Can DropShutterstock

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

Obese Woman with fat belly in dieting concept. Overweight woman touching his fat belly and want to lose weight. Fat woman her waist with a centimeter.Shutterstock

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

Young woman touching her belly looking in mirror at homeMistake 1: Stopping Too QuicklyShutterstock

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.

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.

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.

Gary Linkov, MD, is double board-certified by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery. He happens to be married to Liz Grand, MD, a board-certified internal medicine physician. “Ozempic has been all over the news, and social media celebrities and many others have been using it, but of course, they don't admit to it,” he says, introducing his wife to “help me with this topic.” In the interview, she reveals everything you need to know about weight loss drugs.


What Is Ozempic?

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

Dr. Grand explains that Ozempic is the brand name for a medicine called Semaglutide. “It's a once-weekly subcutaneous injectable medication, uh, meaning that the medicine gets injected into the skin, usually in the upper arm, the thigh, or the abdomen,” she says.

It’s Primarily Used to Treat Type 2 Diabetes

“It's primarily used to treat type two diabetes. That's what it was FDA approved for initially in 2017,” she continues. “Ozempic or semaglutide belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 is basically a hormone that's produced by the GI tract. And so the GLP one receptor agonists essentially work on these GLP-1 receptors.”

Where Are GLP-1 Receptor Located?

Woman, success and outdoor with happiness for fitness, exercise or wellness as achievement. Girl, celebration and portrait in nature with energy or motivation for health, workout or marathon trainingShutterstock

“GLP-1 receptors are located throughout the body, but there are three main areas that we'll talk about today,” Dr. Grand continues. “The first is the pancreas which leads to the release of insulin. Insulin then promotes the absorption of glucose into tissues to be used for energy or to be used as a form of energy storage. And this ultimately causes a decrease in blood glucose levels. The second is the brain, which decreases appetite by reducing the feeling of hunger. And the third is the GI tract, which slows down the movement of food and thus makes us feel fuller.”

What Is the Correct Dosage and How Much Does It Cost?

Pharmacy,Drugstore:,Beautiful,Asian,Pharmacist,Uses,Checkout,Counter,Computer,,DoesShutterstock

“In terms of dosing, we generally start with semaglutide at 0.25 milligrams weekly, and it can gradually be increased to a maximum of two milligrams as tolerated. The cost without insurance can be up to about $1,200 a month,” she says.

RELATED:12 Tips to Maintain Weight Loss After Using Ozempic and GLP-1 Medications

Wegovy Is Another Form of Semaglutide

Valparaiso, IN USA - January 22, 2024: Wegovy semaglutide pens for treatment of chronic obesity, close upShutterstock

“There is another form of semaglutide called Wegovy, and this is basically semaglutide in a higher dose,” she says.“This is the medication that's actually FDA-approved for weight loss, but it is specifically approved for people either with obesity or who are overweight with at least one weight-related condition. These include conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease.”

Both Ozempic and Semaglutide Reduce Weight

ozempic_wegovy-split1Shutterstock

So, what is ozempic or semaglutide used for? “It was initially meant for the treatment of type two diabetes to help decrease blood sugar by augmenting the release of insulin. But people found that there was also this impact on weight loss, and it's been studied and it has been shown to reduce weight,” she says.

However, to Maintain the Weight Loss, You Might Have to Stay on Them

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

There is one major con about using drugs for weight loss. “They've also found that people generally need to stay on Ozempic in order to maintain the weight loss,” she says.

Risks and Side Effects

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

“In terms of risks or side effects, the most common side effects that we typically see are nausea, vomiting, constipation, and sometimes diarrhea. We also see dizziness, increased heart rate, headaches, reflux, and even sometimes acute kidney injury, which is thought to be due to dehydration from all of the nausea and vomiting that ozempic can induce. It's also not recommended for people who have certain gastrointestinal tract diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, things like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis,” she says.

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

There Is Also a Cancer Risk

Asian woman lying sick in hospital.Shutterstock

“There's also a black box warning for a specific type of thyroid cancer,” she says.”This comes from studies that were done in rodent models that showed growth of the specific type of thyroid tumor. Acute pancreatitis, which is a condition where the pancreas becomes quite inflamed, has also been noted in this class of medications. And it's really important to note that pancreatitis can be severe and can be fatal. It's unclear what this mechanism is for this possible complication. It's also unclear whether or not this has any implications for pancreatic cancer in the long run. But regardless if you have a history of pancreatitis or if you develop pancreatitis while on the medication, you should stop it, and you should never take it again.”

Significant Weight Loss with the Drugs Can Change the Way Your Face Looks

Tired woman looking her eye bags in the bathroom.Shutterstock

“Significant weight loss with drugs like ozempic and Wegovy can change the way our faces look,” they add. “We have many fat compartments throughout our face, and these compartments are affected by anything that leads to weight loss such as bariatric surgery, such as just kinda natural weight loss with diet and exercise and or with drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. As our weight drops, the fat in our face decreases as well. This could lead to areas appearing more hollow and gaunt, and also, our skin starting to droop. It may be that the faster the weight loss with these medications and the more significant the weight loss, the less the body has the ability to adapt and adjust, and that can lead to more sagging at a faster rate.”

Celebrities Have Been Using Ozempic

Silhouette of celebrity in black dress being photographed by paparazziShutterstock

She also explains how celebrities are involved in the Ozempic craze. “The cost of ozempic is about $1,200 per month for off-label use of ozempic as a weight loss drug. And that is a major expense for most people, but usually not a major expense for most celebrities,” she says. “And similar to the lack of transparency when it comes to plastic surgery for weight loss, there is a similar lack of transparency. For example, Kim Kardashian had to fit into that Marilyn Monroe dress for the MET Gala, and as many have surmised, including the New York Times, she may have taken Ozempic to drop weight quickly to try to fit into that dress.”

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Lose Weight Gradually

Legs of men standing on scales weight. Concept of health and weight loss.Shutterstock

“Remember that the safest way to lose weight is to do so gradually with these medications and with any other method as well. I'm anticipating that the popularity of facial filler, including fat transfer to the face, will increase because of medications such as ozempic,” she says.

Rising Demand for Lifting Procedures Due to Facial Fat Loss

“I also think that the incidence of lifting procedures such as brow lifts and facelifts will increase as well because, as we talked about previously, there's an increased sagging that occurs when the fat in our face declines,” he says. “We've been talking a lot about buccal fat removal on this channel and the risks of that procedure. And keep in mind that Ozempic is now introducing additional hollowing of the face. So if someone's had a buccal fat removal, then they go on Ozempic to lose further weight, now they're going to look even more hollowed out gaunt, and they may be looking to replace that lost volume.”

She Approves of Ozempic for People with Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes,Blood,Sugar,Level,Lancelet,GlucometerShutterstock

Is Ozempic a good idea? “Certainly for people who have type two diabetes, yes,” she says. “I like the fact that, in general, it's not associated with hypoglycemia, which is when, uh, the blood sugar drops to a dangerously low level. This can be a very serious issue for people as they're trying to get their blood sugar under control for people who are obese or are overweight with conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, obstructive sleep apnea.”

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

Try and Focus on Self-Love

Self,Confident,Single,Woman,Pointing,Finger,At,Her,Reflection,InShutterstock

“I would say you need to take a look at yourself in the mirror. And you know, the other issue I see with the increased use of ozempic for people who are just trying to lose that little bit of extra weight, it just speaks to this kind of viewpoint that, unfortunately, we as a society seem to have that our bodies, and I think in particular women's bodies, but certainly everyone's bodies are as well, we view our bodies as like a trend. Right now, it's going to look thin. But a few years ago, it was trendy to look voluptuous, but back in the nineties, it was also very in to look very skinny. I just think that we all need to learn to appreciate our bodies more, be kinder to our bodies, and maybe even just learn to love ourselves a little more,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Liezl Jayne Strydom
4 Meals I Ate to Lose 30 Pounds in 12 Weeks
Copyright Liezl Jayne/Facebook
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.

There's nothing quite like the moment when you've reached your weight loss goal and realize the real work is just beginning. YouTube sensationLiezl Jayne Strydom is familiar with this journey, having successfully lost 30 pounds in just 12 weeks and maintained her results long-term. "It's not about being perfect," she states repeatedly. Her philosophy centers on consistency rather than perfection, focusing on nutrient-dense, protein-rich meals that keep her satisfied throughout the day.

Getting Out of the Winter Rut

"To get out of my rut, get out of the winter rut, I like to do just a few simple things," Liezl explains in her recent post. "I like to change up my routine so things feel fresh, change up my meals and my workouts a bit so that I can just feel like I'm working towards some new goals." This refreshed mindset helped her stay motivated during her weight loss journey and continues to serve her well during maintenance.

Protein-Packed Breakfast Smoothie

"I've been making this breakfast every single day this week. This week, it's my favorite. It's just really simple," says Liezl. Her recipe combines one cup of frozen mango, half a cup of frozen raspberries, and half a cup of frozen strawberries. She adds about three-quarters to one cup of coconut yogurt, one small scoop of vanilla protein powder, and water to blend. "It's like a giant strawberry milkshake for breakfast," she explains.

RELATED:Coach Lost 90 Pounds by Getting Brutally Honest with Herself About These 10 Things

Morning Movement Matters

"I just finished a workout. So I'm a little bit sweaty, a little bit hot, ready for my breakfast," Liezl shares. For her, exercise isn't about punishment but rather a consistent part of her routine that complements her nutrition. This balanced approach helped her lose weight in a sustainable way and now helps her maintain her results.

Nutrient-Dense Lunch Bowl

"It's a perfect lunch for me—quick, very healthy, and full of protein," Liezl explains about her midday meal. She starts with arugula, adds roasted sweet potatoes, and two seven-minute boiled eggs. "I always like to add something really filling to my salads like sweet potato or rice or quinoa," she notes. A drizzle of olive oil and coconut aminos brings everything together, with sunflower and pumpkin seeds for crunch.

Prioritizing Meal Prep

"I've got these roasted sweet potatoes. I cooked them yesterday," Liezl explains. This simple habit of having healthy options ready makes maintaining her weight loss easier. "All the work of these fruits, or the melons, is just cutting it up. But if you've got it cut up, then you can just have it ready to go in the fridge," she adds when discussing her afternoon snack.

RELATED:I Lost 100 Pounds in 18 Months With Walking and 3 Simple Food Changes

Refreshing Afternoon Treat

Healthy,Breakfast,Or,Morning,With,Chia,Seeds,Vanilla,Pudding,Raspberry​Overnight Chia Seed BreakfastShutterstock

"I prepped some chia pudding the other day. And I also prepped this little fruit salad," Liezl shares. Her afternoon pick-me-up features chia pudding topped with watermelon, cantaloupe, grapes, and pecans. "That makes a very good after lunch snack," she notes, showing how simple combinations can satisfy sweet cravings naturally.

Dairy-Free Alternatives

Tea time. Beautiful blonde woman holding ceramic cup of tea or coffee enjoy closeup. Looking at window and drink tea. Good morning with tea. Selective focus. Pretty young girl relaxing. Happy concept., green tean, coffee​Green TeaShutterstock

"I love coconut yogurt, but any kind of plain yogurt will actually work," Liezl explains. For her afternoon coffee, she shares, "What I've really been liking in my coffee lately is I use just coconut milk in a can, light coconut milk. It's like so creamy, a little bit sweet, just naturally sweet. It's dairy-free, obviously."

Quick 10-Minute Dinner

"This is something that I make when I don't have a lot of time or when I just want something super quick," says Liezl. "This is a five to 10 minute dinner. So fast." She steams green beans while cooking ramen noodles, then adds pre-cooked chicken. "After I drain the noodles, I actually just put them right back in the pot with the stove turned down to low. And I just throw all the chicken pieces in there," she explains, adding oil and coconut aminos before covering to heat everything through.

Mindful Evening Indulgence

Dark chocolate. Broken chocolate bar on kitchen tableShutterstock

"I'm not trying to lose weight at the moment, so I don't count my calories. I only do that when I'm trying to lose weight," Liezl explains. Her evening ritual includes ginger tea paired with a small piece of dark chocolate. "And it's chocolate time. A little bit of chocolate," she says simply. "I'm going to go enjoy my chocolate and my tea and just relax a little bit this evening."

RELATED: She Lost 75 Lbs by Eating These 3 Foods That “Mimic” the Effects of Ozempic

The Protein Priority

Fresh chicken eggs​7. EggsShutterstock

"I am trying to eat quite a lot of protein at the moment. I try to get roughly a hundred grams of protein a day," Liezl notes. "I'm not like counting it. I just kind of have learned what kind of things have protein in them. So just having the eggs for lunch, having some protein powder in my smoothie for breakfast, having the chicken in my dinner. All those proteins accumulate."

Understanding Your Calorie Needs

"I'm not trying to lose weight at the moment, so I don't count my calories. I only do that when I'm trying to lose weight," Liezl explains. "But I thought some of you guys might want to know how many calories that I'm eating. So it says that I ate 2,227 calories today and 95 grams of protein. That's pretty good."

Flexible Framework, Not Rigid Rules

"It's not about being perfect. It is not about being perfect," Liezl emphasizes twice. "I have found that when I am putting in a little bit of effort, taking care of myself, I just feel so much better," she says. "When I don't [take care of myself], it really affects my confidence. And then I'm like thinking, oh, I need to change all these things about myself."

RELATED:She Walked in a Weighted Vest For 30 Days & Built Strength Without Going to the Gym

Summer-Ready Confidence

"Getting summer ready really just means feeling healthy, strong, confident in my skin," says Liezl. "You know, comfortable showing a little bit more skin after winter. In winter I get like, feel like a bit scruffy after winter, like I've just been bundled up so much." Her approach focuses on making small changes that yield big results in both physical appearance and mental well-being.

Finding Inspiration, Not Perfection

"I hope that you enjoyed this video. I hope that it just gives you a bit of motivation, a bit of inspiration, maybe a recipe or two to try," Liezl says. By sharing her realistic day of eating, she demonstrates that sustainable weight management doesn't require extreme restriction. As she puts it, it's about "just getting out of the rut a bit, just changing up a few things, doing some exercise, eating some healthy meals." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fun on white sand. Portrait of happy young woman in beachwear on the beach
Shutterstock
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

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

Egg Whites

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

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

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

Non-Fat Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt on wooden background, Health food from yogurt concept​2. Greek YogurtShutterstock

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

Protein Powder

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

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

Canned Tuna (in Water)

Canned tuna on wood background​7. Canned FishShutterstock

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

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

Low-Fat Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese or fresh milk curd as background close up. Homemade cottage cheese texture.Shutterstock

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

Deli Turkey or Chicken (Low-Sodium)

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

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

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

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

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

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

A white chicken egg among many brown eggs with happy ,relax and smiley face, represent concept of differentiation, relax ,optimistic , growth mindset , freedom and independent
Shutterstock
Expert-Recommended

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

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

Make Sure Your Breakfast Is Balanced

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

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

Aim for 30 Grams of Protein

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

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

Some examples:

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

Here’s What to Do When Traveling

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

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

Then, Choose a Healthy Fat

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

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

Amp Up Your Fiber Intake

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

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

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

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