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

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

Nutrition Coach Found 5 Foods That Work Better Than Ozempic for Losing Weight

This tips will help you burn fat fast.

Susie_Matychuk_coachsooz1

Do you want to lose weight but aren’t sure if you want to take medication to do it? You don’t have to, according to one expert. Susie Matychuk, AKA Coach Sooz, is “the world’s nerdiest personal trainer,” according to her YouTube bio. “The thing that is more effective than Ozempic is a healthy lifestyle,” she says at the start of the viral YouTube clip. In it, she discusses alternatives to the drug for weight loss in the form of foods and fitness.


She Grew Up Believing Medication Should Be a “Last Resort”

She starts by discussing her experience with medication. “I grew up with very traditional values, and I remember my mom telling me that medication should always be the last resort. In my early twenties, I started getting chronic strep throat, joint pain, and rashes. I had no idea that it was because of my poor diet and stress level,” she says in her post.

She Has Tried Taking Typical Medications But They Haven’t Worked

“I went to the doctor and got prescribed antibiotics and painkillers. My symptoms got worse, and I went to the emergency room thinking that I had rheumatoid arthritis or something, which is typical of Susie being overdramatic. The doctors were just as confused as me, and I realized the medical system is not made to help people with symptoms,” she says.

However, Healthy Lifestyle Has Helped Her Ailments Over the Years

She reveals that when she “started taking vitamins, eating a paleo diet, and spending more time outside, and I stopped taking medications,” her symptoms gradually went away. “That's a little bit about my story and why I am so passionate about a lifestyle approach instead of medication,” she says, adding that there are specific types of food and exercises that stimulate GLP-1, “which is the hormone that Ozempic” targets.

She Believes a Healthy Lifestyle Can Work Just as Well as Ozempic

She notes that while doctors are “prescribing it very generously,” they wouldn’t need to if people understood nutrition and exercise. “If we understood how to make our body have nutrients, then we wouldn't gain fat and feel the need for weight loss drugs at all,” she says. “I would definitely describe myself as anti-medication and pro-healthy lifestyle.”

These Foods Increase the Production of GLP-1

“GLP-1 is a hormone that is produced in the gut and the brain that slows digestion and lowers appetite. Your body is really good at making it on its own without any medical intervention,” she claims. “There are foods you can eat that increase the production of GLP-1, which will make weight loss easier. Eggs, avocado, nuts, and complex carbohydrates all have been shown to increase GLP-1,” she says. Yerba mate tea and black coffee also lower appetite.”

RELATED: She Dropped 50 Pounds in One Year Without Strict Diets By Walking Every Day

The Best Diet Is “Pretty Close” to Keto

The ideal fat loss diet that “stimulates a lot of GLP-1” is “pretty close to a ketogenic diet, which is very effective for reversing insulin resistance and losing fat,” she reveals. “Remember that fat loss is the goal, not weight loss because we wanna keep our muscle and lose the fat.”

Exercise Also Releases Chemicals That “Benefit the Body”

Exercise does not stimulate GLP-1,” but it does stimulate a whole bunch of other chemicals that benefit the body,” says Susie. “One of them is growth hormone or GH, and another one is BDNF,” she says about brain-derived neurotrophic factor. “GH is what starts the process of muscle growth. BDNF is what makes you smarter. So basically, exercise makes you jacked and smart.”

RELATED: This Nutritionist Lost 15 Pounds by Eating These 7 "Busy Woman" High-Protein Foods

Ozempic Stops You From Releasing GH, Which Is the Hormone That Helps You Build Muscle

“Ozempic actually stops you from releasing growth hormone, which is why those who take it tend to gain fat and lose muscle. So in most cases, ozempic actually makes us lose the wrong type of weight,” she reveals.

These 5 “Primal Movements” Are the Best Exercises for Weight Loss

According to Susie, the best exercises are called primal movements. “They are movements that your body is actually designed to do. Injury and pain are the result of not being able to do primal movements. There are five of them, and they are squatting, hinging, lunging, pushing, and pulling,” she says.

RELATED: She Tried Every Diet for 8 Years Then These 5 Changes Got Her Perfect Body

The Most Effective Equation for Fat Loss? Diet and Exercise

“Basically, all you need to do to live a healthy lifestyle that is more effective for fat loss than ozempic is one, eat the GLP-1 stimulating diet, and two, practice your primal movements,” she says. “Every day, big pharma will keep making drugs and selling them to us as long as we are asking for them. And by taking them, you're still asking for them. So hopefully, this provided some clarity on what to do instead, which is to be healthy.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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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 lose weight but aren’t sure if you want to take medication to do it? You don’t have to, according to one expert. Susie Matychuk, AKA Coach Sooz, is “the world’s nerdiest personal trainer,” according to her YouTube bio. “The thing that is more effective than Ozempic is a healthy lifestyle,” she says at the start of the viral YouTube clip. In it, she discusses alternatives to the drug for weight loss in the form of foods and fitness.


She Grew Up Believing Medication Should Be a “Last Resort”

She starts by discussing her experience with medication. “I grew up with very traditional values, and I remember my mom telling me that medication should always be the last resort. In my early twenties, I started getting chronic strep throat, joint pain, and rashes. I had no idea that it was because of my poor diet and stress level,” she says in her post.

She Has Tried Taking Typical Medications But They Haven’t Worked

“I went to the doctor and got prescribed antibiotics and painkillers. My symptoms got worse, and I went to the emergency room thinking that I had rheumatoid arthritis or something, which is typical of Susie being overdramatic. The doctors were just as confused as me, and I realized the medical system is not made to help people with symptoms,” she says.

However, Healthy Lifestyle Has Helped Her Ailments Over the Years

She reveals that when she “started taking vitamins, eating a paleo diet, and spending more time outside, and I stopped taking medications,” her symptoms gradually went away. “That's a little bit about my story and why I am so passionate about a lifestyle approach instead of medication,” she says, adding that there are specific types of food and exercises that stimulate GLP-1, “which is the hormone that Ozempic” targets.

She Believes a Healthy Lifestyle Can Work Just as Well as Ozempic

She notes that while doctors are “prescribing it very generously,” they wouldn’t need to if people understood nutrition and exercise. “If we understood how to make our body have nutrients, then we wouldn't gain fat and feel the need for weight loss drugs at all,” she says. “I would definitely describe myself as anti-medication and pro-healthy lifestyle.”

These Foods Increase the Production of GLP-1

“GLP-1 is a hormone that is produced in the gut and the brain that slows digestion and lowers appetite. Your body is really good at making it on its own without any medical intervention,” she claims. “There are foods you can eat that increase the production of GLP-1, which will make weight loss easier. Eggs, avocado, nuts, and complex carbohydrates all have been shown to increase GLP-1,” she says. Yerba mate tea and black coffee also lower appetite.”

RELATED: She Dropped 50 Pounds in One Year Without Strict Diets By Walking Every Day

The Best Diet Is “Pretty Close” to Keto

The ideal fat loss diet that “stimulates a lot of GLP-1” is “pretty close to a ketogenic diet, which is very effective for reversing insulin resistance and losing fat,” she reveals. “Remember that fat loss is the goal, not weight loss because we wanna keep our muscle and lose the fat.”

Exercise Also Releases Chemicals That “Benefit the Body”

Exercise does not stimulate GLP-1,” but it does stimulate a whole bunch of other chemicals that benefit the body,” says Susie. “One of them is growth hormone or GH, and another one is BDNF,” she says about brain-derived neurotrophic factor. “GH is what starts the process of muscle growth. BDNF is what makes you smarter. So basically, exercise makes you jacked and smart.”

RELATED: This Nutritionist Lost 15 Pounds by Eating These 7 "Busy Woman" High-Protein Foods

Ozempic Stops You From Releasing GH, Which Is the Hormone That Helps You Build Muscle

“Ozempic actually stops you from releasing growth hormone, which is why those who take it tend to gain fat and lose muscle. So in most cases, ozempic actually makes us lose the wrong type of weight,” she reveals.

These 5 “Primal Movements” Are the Best Exercises for Weight Loss

According to Susie, the best exercises are called primal movements. “They are movements that your body is actually designed to do. Injury and pain are the result of not being able to do primal movements. There are five of them, and they are squatting, hinging, lunging, pushing, and pulling,” she says.

RELATED: She Tried Every Diet for 8 Years Then These 5 Changes Got Her Perfect Body

The Most Effective Equation for Fat Loss? Diet and Exercise

“Basically, all you need to do to live a healthy lifestyle that is more effective for fat loss than ozempic is one, eat the GLP-1 stimulating diet, and two, practice your primal movements,” she says. “Every day, big pharma will keep making drugs and selling them to us as long as we are asking for them. And by taking them, you're still asking for them. So hopefully, this provided some clarity on what to do instead, which is to be healthy.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Dr Tony Hampton
Copyright Dr Tony Hampton/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.

Considering Ozempic or similar medications for weight loss? You're not alone. As expensive weight loss drugs dominate headlines, many people are searching for natural alternatives that won't strain their wallets or cause severe side effects.

Dr. Tony Hampton, a board-certified obesity physician with over 25 years of experience specializing in weight management and diabetes care, has helped thousands of patients achieve sustainable weight loss. "As an obesity doctor, I've seen the struggle people face in trying to lose weight. It's real and it's frustrating," he shares. Today, he reveals six natural methods that can help you achieve your weight loss goals by working with your body's own mechanisms.

The Truth About GLP-1 Medications

While GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic can help with weight loss, they come with significant risks that are often downplayed, Dr. Hampton explains in his post. These medications can cause serious side effects, including pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, and gastric paralysis. "I've even had patients coincidentally end up with bowel obstruction shortly after starting these drugs," he warns. Even more concerning, "up to 50% of weight loss comes from muscle, not fat, which is dangerous for your long-term health."

Understanding How Weight Loss Medications Work

A hungry man choosing food from refrigerator in kitchen at night. Bad habit

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"GLP-1 drugs mimic the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1," Dr. Hampton explains. "It works by reducing appetite by affecting the satiety centers in the brain, slows gastric emptying, keeping you feeling full longer, and improves insulin sensitivity." Understanding these mechanisms helps identify natural alternatives that work similarly.

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

Method 1: The Ketogenic Approach

Ketogenic low carbs diet concept. Healthy eating and dieting with salmon fish, avocado, eggs and nuts. Top viewShutterstock

"The ketogenic diet is one of the most powerful tools for weight loss because it naturally mimics many effects of GLP-1 drugs," says Dr. Hampton. It suppresses appetite by stabilizing blood sugar and promotes ketone production, which directly signals the brain to reduce hunger. Unlike medications, keto preserves muscle mass while promoting fat loss.

Method 2: Strategic Fasting

Intermittent fasting concept with a woman sitting hungry in front of food and looking at her watch to make sure she breaks fast on the correct time. A dietary modification for healthy lifestyle.Shutterstock

Dr. Hampton recommends intermittent fasting as another effective approach. "Fasting leads to appetite regulation by lowering ghrelin, the hunger hormone, while increasing satiety hormones like leptin," he explains. It naturally slows digestion and promotes cellular cleanup through autophagy, enhancing metabolic health.

Method 3: The Protein-First Strategy

selection food sources of protein. healthy diet eating concept. close upShutterstock

For those preferring simplicity, Dr. Hampton advocates for a carnivore diet approach. "Like a lion who only eats once or twice a week, carnivores simply don't need to eat as often," he notes. This approach focuses on nutrient-dense animal foods, reduces inflammation, and naturally suppresses appetite while stabilizing blood sugar.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Method 4: Targeted Exercise

Hispanic woman doing squats on a bench by the oceanShutterstock

Unlike GLP-1 drugs that can cause muscle loss, exercise, particularly strength training, builds and maintains lean muscle mass. "The more muscle you get from exercises, the higher your metabolic rate," Dr. Hampton emphasizes. This approach enhances your body's ability to use glucose and improves insulin sensitivity naturally.

Method 5: The SPC Method

Assorted foods with calorie count labels, illustrating healthy diet and calorie tracking.Shutterstock

Dr. Hampton introduces the Satiety Per Calorie (SPC) method, backed by data from over 67,000 logged meals. "Users are eating nearly half as many calories as those consuming low SPC foods," he explains. This approach yields weight loss results without the nausea, muscle loss, or financial strain associated with medications.

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

Method 6: Strategic Supplementation

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While emphasizing diet first, Dr. Hampton recommends specific supplements that support natural weight loss:

  • Berberine: "Nature's metformin" for improving insulin sensitivity.
  • Apple cider vinegar: For slowing digestion and stabilizing blood sugar.
  • Gymnema sylvestre: "The sugar destroyer" for reducing cravings.
  • 5-hydroxytryptophan: For natural appetite control.

The Foundation: Sleep and Stress Management

Top View Home: Handsome Young Man Sleeps in His Bed in a Stylish Bedroom, Sun Shines on Him. Morning Concept. Peaceful Sleeping and Relaxation, Important for Wellness . Top Down Above ShotShutterstock

"Poor sleep and chronic stress disrupt hunger hormones and make weight loss harder," Dr. Hampton explains. Prioritizing these foundational elements can have similar appetite-regulating effects as GLP-1 drugs, without the side effects or costs.

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

Your Path to Sustainable Weight Loss[

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"This isn't about shaming anyone for using GLP-1 drugs," Dr. Hampton emphasizes. "If you've tried everything and feel these medications are the last resort, I totally understand. But before you make that decision, consider these alternatives." These natural methods work by addressing the root causes of weight gain - insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormone imbalances - rather than just treating symptoms. While weight loss isn't easy, sustainable results are possible without expensive medications. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Aimee_Meier1
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 the natural way without taking the Olympics? According to lots of experts, there are foods you can eat that will help your body lose weight, similar to how weight loss drugs work. Aimee Meier is a weight loss warrior and fat loss-slash-hormone expert who helps her clients lose weight without medication. In a new social media post, she revealed a few foods that she eats regularly to lose weight. “3 foods I eat daily that mimic the effects of Ozempic in a natural way,” she writes across the video.


Here Is How Ozempic Works

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“Here are the quick deets on Ozempic – it helps to keep your blood sugar levels from getting too high. In your body, this medicine acts like a hormone called GLP-1. It stimulates your body to make more insulin after you eat, prevents your liver from releasing stored sugar, and slows the movement of food through your body,” she writes.

Here Is How These 3 Foods Mimic Ozempic

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

First, she explains that the following three foods mimic Ozempic in three ways. The first? “By helping regulate blood sugar levels - comment “BSB” for more of my top blood sugar balance hacks,” she writes. Second, they promote satiety, “helping you feel fuller longer,” she writes. Lastly, they support insulin sensitivity, she says.

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

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt in a wooden bowl on a rustic wooden table. Selective focusShutterstock

The first food is Greek yogurt. “Rich in protein, Greek yogurt slows digestion, which helps regulate blood sugar after meals. The protein also keeps you satiated, curbing hunger for longer. And the probiotics in Greek yogurt improve gut health, which can impact metabolism and inflammation, both related to insulin sensitivity,” she says.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds close-up with a wooden spoon. Chia seeds macro. Dry healthy supplement for proper nutrition.Shutterstock

The second food is chia seeds. “Packed with fiber and healthy fats, both of which slow digestion and stabilize blood sugar. By slowing the release of glucose into the bloodstream, chia seeds help prevent spikes and crashes, which can support insulin regulation and steady energy levels. The fiber also keeps you fuller longer, reducing the urge to snack and helping with weight management,” she says.

RELATED: Coach Drops 10 Pounds in 2 Months, "5 Things to Avoid in 2025"

Avocado

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The third food? Avocado. “Avocados contain healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which help the body better respond to insulin. This aids blood sugar regulation. The fiber in avocados also slows digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, reducing cravings and supporting weight control,” she reveals. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Ozempic shutterstock_1404723482
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 lose weight without Ozempic? Dr. Becky Gillaspy works full-time, helping people reach their health and weight loss goals through her website and two YouTube channels: Dr Becky Fitness and 2 Fit Docs. In a recent YouTube video, she reveals how to trigger the Ozempic weight loss effect. “Ozempic causes weight loss by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 she says, revealing that “you can boost that hormone by eating great tasting foods” and “don't want to endure costly weekly injections that could leave you feeling nauseated for the rest of your life.”


GLP-1 Is a Hormone That Lowers Blood Sugar and Helps You Feel Full

She starts her post by explaining that Ozempic is a GLP-1 agonist. “GLP is a hormone naturally produced in your small intestine in response to food intake. So after you eat and there is food inside your system, GLP-1 is called into action. Its responsibility is to help bring your blood sugar level back down after the meal and ensure you feel full. So GLP-1 is a helpful hormone because of its effects, which are a robust insulin response.”

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

Ozempic Mimics It and Tricks Your Body Into Feeling Full

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

“Slower digestion and increased fullness give you better blood sugar and weight control,” she continues. “Ozempic mimics the action of natural GLP-1 by acting as an agonist. An agonist is a manufactured substance that binds to cells, causing the same action as the natural substance. So essentially, ozempic tricks your body into thinking there is more GLP-1 hormone present than there really is.”

Diet Can Stimulate GLP-1 Naturally

Beautiful young happy african woman with afro curly hairstyle strolling in the city - Cheerful black student walking on the streetsShutterstock

Can you boost GLP one without taking a drug? Yes, you can,” she says. “Diet plays a significant role in stimulating GLP-1 production naturally. Let's go through an entire day of eating to show you how to do it,” she says.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Eat Yogurt in the Morning

Close up of happy beautiful woman eating yogurt while standing in living room at homeShutterstock

The first food she recommends is yogurt for breakfast, which you can eat in the morning as an afternoon snack if you practice intermittent fasting. “It is a fermented food and it contains a combination of protein and calcium. The prebiotics and probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt can enhance gut health by influencing the gut microbiota, which plays a role in GLP-1 secretion. Research shows that dairy products like yogurt, milk, and cheese can increase GLP-1 levels post-consumption. The protein contained in these foods triggers the release of GLP-1 as the body works to metabolize amino acids, while calcium plays a supporting role in enhancing this process. So, the combination of protein and calcium has a synergistic effect, leading to a more pronounced GLP-1 response compared to either nutrient alone. She recommends avoiding low-fat varieties with added sugar, which “spikes your blood sugar,” she says. “You can choose either unsweetened Greek or regular yogurt. Greek yogurt is higher in protein, whereas regular yogurt is higher in calcium. Either way, you are getting a fermented food with a desired combination of protein and calcium, and you don't have to eat plain yogurt.”

Add Berries

Bowl with yogurt and blueberries on table, top viewShutterstock

She also recommends “stirring in some sweetness in the form of berries,” which helps boost the polyphenol content, “giving yourself a third GLP-1 advantage,” she says. “Much like fermented foods, foods rich in polyphenols positively influence the gut microbiota supporting GLP-1 production. Think of polyphenols as the beneficial substances that give colorful plant foods like berries their color. If you've ever heard the advice to eat a rainbow each day, what you're really being asked to do is eat a variety of polyphenols each day. And some extra good news? Polyphenols are also found in coffee and green tea, so feel free to enjoy a cup or two with your yogurt.”

RELATED:8 Tips to Make Losing Weight Feel Effortless, From Proven Experts

Eat a Salad

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Next, she explains why she is the proponent of a daily salad. “When naturally boosting GLP-1 is your goal, a daily salad is a gem. Non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and tomatoes are going to build on your polyphenol intake for the day and also provide fiber. Fiber not only slows digestion but also promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. When fiber is processed by gut bacteria, short-chain fatty acids are produced, which stimulate the release of GLP-1. Those vegetables also fill your stomach, and while that added volume is not directly related to GLP-1, it does suppress your appetite by activating stretch receptors in the stomach and intestine. When those receptors are stretched, they convey a, ‘we are full’ message to your brain, letting you comfortably stop eating.”

Top It with Protein and Healthy Fat

Healthy,Meal,Prep,Containers,,Green,Beans,,Chicken,Breast,diet,cooking,kitchenShutterstock

“You can gain an even bigger hunger satisfaction advantage by topping your daily salad with protein and healthy fats,” she explains. Dietary fat often gets a bad rap, but certain types of fat are essential for health and can even promote weight loss. When fat enters the small intestine, it stimulates the secretion of cholecystokinin, which slows stomach emptying and signals the gallbladder and pancreas to release enzymes for digestion. As a result, you get slower, more robust digestion. So by all means, load up your salad with protein and healthy fats such as meat, salmon, cheese, hard-boiled eggs, avocados, nuts, seeds, and an olive oil-based dressing.”

Pair a Protein with Veggies for Dinner

Fillet of Salmon.Shutterstock

She moves on to dinner. “To boost GLP-1 levels and continue hunger satisfaction for the remainder of the day, serve a healthy portion of non-starchy vegetables alongside a protein-rich entree like meat, chicken, or fish,” she says.

RELATED:Woman Lost 42 Pounds With These 7 Simple Protein-Rich Recipes

Cook with Fats

chef cooking salmon steaks in the kitchenShutterstock

“Don't be afraid to cook in fats that stand up to heat, such as butter, avocado oil, or high-quality olive oil. The combination of protein, fat, and veggies creates a meal that takes a long time to digest and produces a nice steady rise and fall in blood sugar over time. That is what you want because it helps you move comfortably through the evening hours without snacking. Eating too close to bedtime elevates blood sugar and insulin overnight, blocking fat loss. GLP-1 can be stimulated naturally when you choose fermented foods or foods that contain protein, especially protein paired with calcium, polyphenols, fiber, and fat,” she continues.

She Has a Cookbook with More Recipes

If you want more of her recipes, you can order her Mediterranean Keto cookbook. “If you want to eat for hunger satisfaction, it provides more than 45 recipes that promote hunger satisfaction and help enhance your body's ability to produce GLP-1 naturally,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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 tired of counting calories and still not seeing results? With Ozempic costing up to $1,014 per month and coming with potential side effects like nausea, vomiting, and the dreaded "Ozempic face," many people are seeking natural alternatives. Meet Chelsea Mae, a Kiwi vegan mom who discovered a better way. Despite being vegan for years, Chelsea struggled with her weight until she learned about the science of calorie density and proper portion sizes. Now, she not only helps other frustrated vegan women, particularly moms, lose weight and stop self-sabotaging, but she's also maintained her own 40-pound weight loss for five years without expensive medications or restrictive diets.


1. A Natural Success Story: How Chelsea Lost 40 Pounds

"I've used all of these things to help me drop 40 pounds and now keep them off for the past five years. So this really does work not just in the short term but in the long term as well," Chelsea shares in her post. Her approach focuses on eating more, not less, but choosing the right foods in the right portions. What makes her story particularly compelling is that she achieved these results without the thousand-dollar monthly price tag or side effects of weight loss medications. "The real effect and the real reason that weight loss works is that it changes people's behavior. When we are less hungry, it changes our behavior," she explains.

Understanding Modern Weight Loss Solutions

To appreciate why Chelsea's natural approach is so revolutionary, it's important to understand current medical solutions. "Ozempic enhances the release and action of insulin throughout the body, which helps with fat loss," explainsDr. Sue Decotiis, MD, NYC weight-loss doctor. "It acts on receptors in the gut and brain that regulate appetite." While effective, these medications come with both financial and physical costs that many find prohibitive.

The Science Behind Natural Appetite Control

While Ozempic works by chemically controlling appetite, Dr. Decotiis notes that "when insulin works well, you can burn fat, when it doesn't you gain weight." Chelsea's approach naturally supports healthy insulin function through specific food choices and eating patterns. Her method mimics the appetite-suppressing effects of medications but through natural means. Here's her comprehensive strategy:

Load Up on Non-Starchy Vegetables

"I recommend eating a pound of non-starchy vegetables a day," says Chelsea. "They work out to about 100-150 calories per pound, but because they're 95% water, they fill up your stomach without adding many calories." She compares it to ordering a tiny camera that comes in a huge box: "Think of this like ordering a tiny camera from Amazon, and it comes in this huge box, and there's all this foam in there that doesn't really help you, but it's there to protect the foam. It's a similar kind of thing with vegetables."

RELATED: This Woman Lost 40 Pounds After Quitting These 5 Common Habits Forever

Embrace Dark Green Vegetables

"Thalcoids actually delay calories being absorbed until the end of your intestines," Chelsea explains. "And what happens is at that point there is a signal hormone that tells your brain because there are undigested calories at the end of your intestine that you should shut off hunger. You're going to have an appetite suppressant effect just from eating green vegetables—if that doesn't make you want to eat your broccoli, I don't know what will." This natural appetite suppression mirrors what Dr. Decotiis describes as Ozempic's effect on "shutting down appetite so the patient feels very full after eating much less food."

Make Potatoes Your Best Friend

"Potatoes have the highest satiety index—they're the absolute queens of satiety," Chelsea shares. "I challenge you to try eating five boiled potatoes. You'll struggle, but that's only 500-600 calories. By contrast, you could eat 34 Oreos for 1,800 calories and still not feel full."

Size Matters: Eat Bigger Portions of the Right Foods

"One of the biggest mistakes that people make is that they just don't understand what an adequate amount of food is to feel full and satisfied and actually shut off hunger," Chelsea notes. "We are consistently telling our clients inside of my coaching program to eat more food for this reason." Her typical plate includes "about a pound of vegetables, at least one to two potatoes, sometimes even more. If I'm hungry, I will eat more, and then I'm going to have a little handful of tofu in there... I add a little bit of fat in there as well, like a quarter of an avocado or a couple of tablespoons of a tahini dressing or some kind of hummus."

Start Your Day with Fiber

"If you eat breakfast daily, regardless of whether you're hungry or not, I don't care if you're not hungry in the morning... your consistency is going to skyrocket because you have more food in your stomach throughout the day," Chelsea insists. Her go-to breakfast is "the same thing every day. I do oats, and I do flax for the fiber in there as well. I do soy milk, and I do berries to bulk that out, and I have a decent portion of food. None of this quarter of a cup of oats business—do a full cup!"

RELATED: This Man Walked 13,000 Steps Daily and Lost 12 Pounds Without Changing His Diet

Maximize Your Fiber Intake

Chelsea explains the science behind fiber's effectiveness: "The only calories that your body is actually going to absorb from your intestine where it's traveling through is the calories that come in direct contact... If they can't touch them, if they're like, I can't touch the calories because there's a bit of fiber there blocking it, then you can't actually absorb those calories." This natural approach helps regulate blood sugar levels, which Dr. Decotiis confirms is crucial for weight loss.

Slow Down Your Eating

"If you chew more, you actually create more saliva, which means that you have more bulk in your stomach, which means that it's going to be emptying slower, which means that you're going to feel fuller for longer," Chelsea explains. This works both psychologically and physiologically to reduce overall intake.

Choose Fruit for Snacks

"Fruit has got a ton of water which has no calories, it's got fiber which has no calories or none absorbed at least, and it's super satisfying because it's naturally sweet and we do tend to crave sweet things," Chelsea shares. Her favorites include "pears, oranges, peaches... and hands down best fruit option would be berries. They're just hard to get where I live, but they're super low in calories and they're absolutely delicious."

Eat Three Meals Plus Snacks

"I have not seen intermittent fasting be successful for the majority of people simply because, on a long-term basis, it doesn't help with the satiety and the fullness and the hunger reduction. In fact, it contributes to the opposite," Chelsea states. She adds, "I've just gotten over myself where I don't tell myself a story that I'm not hungry in the morning because it's natural—hunger is going to be less in the morning. Hunger peaks at night, and it troughs in the morning."

RELATED: Woman Quit Alcohol For 30 Days and These 8 Changes Stunned Her Doctors

Plan Ahead for Challenging Situations

"I bring food with me when I leave the house. I always have food with me when I'm going to parties or going to events where other people are going to be eating tons of processed food," Chelsea reveals. "If I'm going to go out for dinner, I'm going to eat more during the day because I know that's going to help my behavior that night rather than what most people do, which is they'll eat less because they're saving up their calories for what they're going to do later."

The Cost Comparison: Natural vs. Medical Approaches

While the Ozmepic can cost over $1,000 per month without insurance, Chelsea's approach relies on affordable, whole foods. According to a study published in JAMA Network Open, weight loss medications could be manufactured for as little as $0.89 to $4.73 per month while still making a profit. This stark contrast makes natural weight loss methods not just effective but economically sustainable.

Sustainable Results vs. Rebound Weight Gain

Studies show that after stopping Ozempic, participants regained two-thirds of their prior weight loss within one year. In contrast, Chelsea's five-year success demonstrates the sustainability of her approach: "Even if you were to absolutely eat so much of these foods, you can still only naturally cap at, say, like 2,000 or maybe even 2,500 calories because they are so satisfying. You're going to feel sick before you eat too many calories... You can eat upwards of 5,000, 6,000, 7,000, even up to 10,000 or maybe more calories from processed foods because they're simply higher calories for smaller amounts of bulk."

RELATED: She Transformed Her Body with These 4 “Lazy Girl” Weight Loss Hacks

Natural Weight Loss Without Side Effects

While Ozempic users may experience "Ozempic face"—a hallowed look and premature aging due to rapid weight loss—Chelsea's gradual, food-based approach helps maintain healthy skin and muscle mass. Harvard Health notes that losing weight too quickly can cause facial aging and loose skin, making Chelsea's sustainable approach even more attractive.

Chelsea says that her approach isn't about restriction—it's about abundance and sustainable change. By focusing on nutrient-dense, filling foods and consistent eating patterns, you can achieve lasting weight loss without the high costs and potential side effects of medication. The choice between pharmaceutical and natural approaches is personal, but Chelsea's success shows that sustainable weight loss is possible through mindful eating and lifestyle changes alone. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Dr. Ken Berry KenDBerryMD
Copyright KenDBerryMD/YouTube/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.

Think you're getting enough protein? Many of us don't, and the signs aren't always obvious. In this revealing countdown, we'll explore ten increasingly important signs of protein deficiency, starting with subtle hints and building up to serious warning signals that demand attention.

Dr. Ken Berry, a family physician with over 20 years of clinical experience, brings crucial insights about protein deficiency that could transform your health. As he explains, "There are sources of information out there that will tell you that eating too much protein is bad for you... In fact, nothing could be further from the truth." Join us as we count down these essential warning signs that could help you identify and correct this common deficiency.

Sleep Disruptions – The Surprising Sign

Sleep disorder, insomnia. Young blonde woman lying on the bed awake

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The countdown begins with an unexpected connection. Dr. Berry shares his own surprise at this finding: "When I was doing the research for this video, I did not know that a protein deficiency can lead to insomnia, but it's actually quite well known in the sleep literature," he says in his video post.

Mood Changes

Young woman angry standing at street

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Your protein intake might be affecting your emotional well-being more than you realize. As Dr. Berry notes, "If you're always down in the dumps, you always have a negative mood, this is actually a sign of protein deficiency."

Unusual Cravings and Hunger

Young woman looking into the fridge, feeling hungry at nightShutterstock

Those persistent cravings aren't random. Dr. Berry explains, "Your body's looking for a very short list of nutrients in your diet. It's looking for amino acids that come from protein... If you're not getting enough protein in your diet, then your body is going to increase your hunger and it's going to make you have these weird cravings trying to get the particular amino acid or protein molecule that it's looking for."

Brittle Hair, Nails, and Skin Issues

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Physical appearance often reflects internal nutrition. Dr. Berry warns, "If your skin is dry and flaky and very thin, if your nails break very easily or they flake up very easily, if your hair's brittle and breaks, if you're having hair loss for no apparent reason, these are all signs of protein deficiency."

Slow-Healing Wounds

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Notice how long it takes for cuts and scrapes to heal? Dr. Berry points out, "If you've been eating low protein for years or decades, then you've gotten used to how long it takes for your wounds to heal, so you may not recognize your wound healing as slow, so maybe ask some friends and relatives how long it takes for a scrape or a cut or an abrasion to heal."

Frequent Infections

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Your immune system needs protein to function properly. Dr. Berry explains, "If you have frequent upper respiratory infections or frequent bladder infections or frequent skin infections... Your immune system has to have a lot of protein in order to fight off infections, whether we're talking about bacterial infections or viral infections."

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

Stunted Growth in Children

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For children, protein deficiency can have lasting consequences. "Stunning growth is almost always due, at least in part to a protein deficiency," Dr. Berry emphasizes. "The child just not getting enough protein... if you want your child to grow up to be tall and strong and beautiful and intelligent, they've got to get enough protein in their diet."

Muscle Loss

Strong sporty fit woman in yellow tank top flexing bicep muscle over gray studio background.9 Best Bodyweight Exercises for Muscle GainShutterstock

Muscle health is a crucial indicator. Dr. Berry states, "A very common sign of protein deficiency is muscle loss or the inability to gain muscle. This is very common in the elderly. As they don't eat enough protein, they lose their muscle mass. In some athletes, if they're not eating enough protein, they work out really hard and they don't gain muscle at all."

Decreased Bone Strength

A doctor with a stethoscope, in a medical uniform in a clinic, a traumatologist analyzes a leg fracture. X-ray of the knee. Ultrasound. Injury of the leg in the knee joint. OsteoporosisShutterstock

This sign challenges common misconceptions. Dr. Berry explains, "Most people think bones are made of calcium. They're actually made of protein with a calcium atom stuck into the matrix of the protein. Your bones are all protein, and if you're not eating enough protein, your body will not be able to keep your bones strong."

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Severe Edema

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In advanced cases, protein deficiency can lead to visible swelling. Dr. Berry warns, "If you have a severe terrible protein deficiency, you can actually develop edema or swelling in your ankles and feet. This is kind of an end stage sign when you've been protein deficient for so long that your body's about to give up."

Expert Recommendations: Getting Enough Protein

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Dr. Berry recommends focusing on whole food sources: "The best sources for protein that I recommend are meat, fish, eggs, and cheese." He specifically notes, "Never ever do you need a protein shake or a protein bar or a protein powder. Those are usually wind up being carbohydrate shakes in bars and powders."

For optimal intake, he advises "two grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, or if you're in the United States, then one gram of protein per pound of body weight." He emphasizes that this isn't excessive: "Protein's good for your kidneys, protein's good for your bones. Protein is good for every other part of you."


Special attention should be paid to at-risk groups: elderly individuals who might default to simple carbohydrates, women (especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding), and growing children who might prefer snacks over protein-rich foods. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

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Trish Koeslag liftwithtrish
Copyright liftwithtrish/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.

Are you struggling to lose weight in perimenopause? Just because you are over 40 doesn’t mean that achieving your body goals is impossible. Trish Koeslag is a women’s nutrition and fitness coach whose mission is to help women over 40 simplify macros and movement to lose weight. In a new social media post, she unveils her weight loss secrets through tips. “10 proven diet tips to lose 15 pounds if you’re in perimenopause,” she writes. “Are you ready to make this the year where you put yourself first? If the answer is ‘hell yes’ then LFG.”

Calculate Your Macros

Start by calculating your macros. Use a macro calculator “and follow your maintenance calories by tracking your food for 2 weeks (be honest!)” she writes.

Get Yourself in a Deficit

Next, get yourself in a deficit. “After 2 weeks of consistency use my macro calculator to create a 15% deficit if you haven’t seen any fat loss progress with your maintenance calories (progress looks like the scale dropping, inches dropping, clothes fitting better, energy improvements, strength in the gym…)” she continues.

Eat More Protein

Amp up your protein intake. “Aim for 30g of protein per meal and space out your meals every 3-4 hours,” she says. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

Eat Whole Foods 90 Percent of the Time

Trish recommends staying away from processed foods and filling your plate with clean, nutritious options – most of the time. “Choose 90% whole foods - add lots of veggies to your meals (half your plate)” she writes.

RELATED: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

Hydrate

Next, hydrate. “Drink 3L of water + electrolytes (I use LMNT)” she writes. 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.

Track Everything You Eat

Don’t forget to track everything you eat to keep yourself accountable. “Track your food in an app (eyeballing does not work, you’ll have to weigh your food in grams) - I have used my fitness pal, MM+ and Cronometer, any app will do,” she says.

Walk 10,000 Steps Per Day

Make sure to get your steps in. “Work your way up to 10K steps per day (get outside for a walk everyday)” she says. A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of 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.

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

Lift Weights

Strength training is also crucial for weight loss. “Start lifting weights: aim for 3 full body days or 4 days of 2 upper + 2 lower days,” she urges. 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.

Get Enough Sleep

You also need to rest. “Sleep sleep sleep (this WILL make or break you)” she says. What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

Stay in Your Own Lane

Lastly, don’t pay attention to everyone else. “Stay in your own damn lane!! Who cares what everyone else is doing!” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Chardae alwayzdae
Copyright alwayzdae/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.

Are you thinking about or getting ready to start taking a weight loss drug? There are many things you should know before you do, according to someone who has been successful on the jab. Chardae is a weight loss warrior and social media influencer who lost 100 pounds on Mounjaro, a weight loss drug similar to Ozempic. In a new social media post, she shares a handful of wisdom she has learned since her successful weight loss drug experience. “5 things I wish I knew before changing my life with Ozempic,” she writes in the post.

It’s Close to Magic

The first thing you should know? “It’s not magic, but it’s close,” she says. “You still have to make healthier choices, but Ozempic gives you that push to stay consistent. Pair it with strength training to build muscle and keep your metabolism thriving—it’s a game-changer!”

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

Plan on Drinking Lots of Water

Next, plan on drinking lots of water. “Water = your new BFF. Staying hydrated is non-negotiable. If you’re not sipping throughout the day, you might feel drained or dizzy. A cute water bottle makes it easier to hit those hydration goals!” she writes.

Food Noise Will Quiet Down

“The silence is real,” she continues. “Food noise (aka those constant cravings and obsessing over snacks) becomes a thing of the past. Suddenly, you’re eating because you’re hungry, not because you’re bored or emotional. It’s such a freeing feeling!”

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

You Need to Eat Lots of Protein

Protein is EVERYTHING,” is the fourth thing to know. “With Ozempic helping you eat less, it’s so important to make every bite count. Protein fuels your strength training, keeps you full longer, and supports your overall glow-up. Think lean meats, eggs, Greek yogurt, or plant-based options—it’s the MVP of your meals!” she writes.

Don’t Forget About Self-Care

Lastly, self-care is a must. “This journey isn’t just about losing weight; it’s about feeling amazing inside and out. Skincare, strength training, and celebrating those small wins all help build confidence and keep you motivated,” she writes.

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

Be Patient

And, be patient. “Starting Ozempic? Take it one day at a time, babe—you’re going to feel like a whole new you!” she concludes the post.

She Also Offers Tips on How to “Slay” Your Journey

In another post she offers “3 tips to slay your journey” on Ozempic. “I’m almost 100 lbs down on my GLP-1 journey, and let me tell you—it’s not just about the weight. It’s about the freedom from food noise, the confidence in my skin, and the energy to live life on my terms. You deserve to feel this good too, and I’m here to tell you—it’s 100% possible,” she writes.

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

Get Your Mind Right

The first tip? Get your mind right. “This journey starts in your head before it ever shows up in your body. Believe in YOU,” she writes.

Build a Routine You Love

Next tip? Build a routine you love. “Protein-packed meals, strength training, and a little self-care = my holy grail combo,” she reveals.

Be Consistent, Not Perfect

Her last tip is to be consistent, not perfect. “Progress beats perfection every single time. Show up for yourself, even if it’s just one small step a day,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.