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

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Obesity Doctor Reveals 6 Natural Methods That Match Ozempic Results

Discover safe, effective alternatives to expensive weight loss medications.

Dr Tony Hampton
Copyright Dr Tony Hampton/YouTube

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

Shutterstock

"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

Apple Cider VinegarShutterstock

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[

Woman,,Balance,Weight,Scale,health,scalesShutterstock

"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.

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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

Shutterstock

"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

Apple Cider VinegarShutterstock

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[

Woman,,Balance,Weight,Scale,health,scalesShutterstock

"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.

Dr Mark Hyman, M.D. drmarkhyman
Copyright drmarkhyman/Intagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Ozempic and other weight loss drugs are the easiest option for rapid weight loss. However, according to one top doctor, this isn’t the case. There are three things you can do without a doctor's prescription that will help you drop pounds faster than any jab. Dr. Mark Hyman, MD, is a Senior Medical Advisor at Cleveland Clinic and the co-founder of Funciton Health. In a new social media post and interview, he reveals that while he isn’t anti-Ozempic, there are other things you can do that will accelerate fat loss.

It’s Not Ozempic, It’s the Diet

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

“It’s not the Ozempic—it’s the diet,” Hyman writes in the post. “These weight loss drugs might help some people temporarily, but they don’t address the root causes of weight gain and metabolic dysfunction.”

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

If You Lose Weight Soley Because of Ozempic, You Are Likely Losing Muscle

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

“If you lose weight without prioritizing diet, protein, and strength training, you’re likely losing muscle—your body’s metabolic engine,” he continues. “This slows down your metabolism, making it even harder to maintain a healthy weight long term.”

His Client Only Lost 2 Pounds in 6 Months on Ozempic

Male,Weight,Scales,,Weight,,Diet,Shutterstock

“I had a patient lose 2 pounds on Ozempic,” he writes, adding in the video that it took him a whopping 6 months to do so. “It didn't really make him feel great. It had all these side effects,” he added.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

He Ended Up Losing 60 Pound by Doing Three Things

Young Caucasian men using Smart Watch measuring heart rate during walk. Runner fixing time at sports smart watch. Young athletic man using fitness tracker or smart watch before run training outdoors.Shutterstock

“He switched over to what I told him to do. He lost 60 pounds and he's reversed his diabetes and he's on his way back to full, full health,” he says in the clip. This involved focusing on food, protein, and exercise. In addition he “reversed his diabetes and reclaimed his health,” says Hyman.

Fundamental 1: Eat One Gram of Protein Per Pound of Bodyweight

Woman in gloves puts raw chicken breasts in a plate on a digital weighing scale to prepare delicious food at home. Homemade cooking concept.Shutterstock

“Before we rush to prescriptions, let’s start with the fundamentals,” says Hyman. Number one? “Eat a gram of protein per pound of ideal body weight,” he says. “I think it's, personally malpractice to prescribe one of these drugs unless that person has diet counseling and understands they need to eat a gram of protein per pound of ideal body weight and they're taught how to do it right and that they do it,” he says.

Fundamental 2: Strength Train at Least Three Times a Week

Athlete,Dumbbell, Bodybuilding, weights, lifting, exercise, gym, weightsShutterstock

Next? “Commit to strength training at least 3 times a week,” he writes. “If you don't, what happens is this, you lose the weight, but up to half of the weight is muscle. Now muscle is your metabolic engine. It burns seven times the calories of fat, and when you lose muscle, your metabolism slows down. So then what happens? Then you stop the drug because it's side effects or you can't afford it forever. And then what happens? You gain back the weight,” he says, adding that will gain it back “all as fat, which means your metabolism is gonna be slower, even at the same weight that you were when you started, which means you need to eat less in order to just stay at that weight. You'll gain more weight even.”

Fundamental 3: Prioritize Whole Foods

Farmer woman holding wooden box full of fresh raw vegetables. Basket with vegetable (cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, radish, corn, garlic and peppers) in the hands.Shutterstock

And the third fundamental has to do with diet. He recommends staying away from processed foods. “Prioritize real, whole foods,” he writes.

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

He’s Not Opposed to Weight Loss Drugs

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

“I’m not opposed to these drugs. What I’m opposed to is the widespread use of them, and the lack of research on other interventions that work better,” Hyman concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Dr. Kate Lyzenga-Dean drkateld
Copyright drkateld/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.

Struggling with weight loss? You're among the 165 million Americans trying to shed extra pounds. While medications like Ozempic make headlines, their high cost and side effects leave many searching for alternatives. Dr. Kate Lyzenga-Dean, a Functional Medicine Healthcare Provider with over a decade of experience, reveals seven natural ways to boost your body's own GLP-1 production for sustainable weight loss. Discover how these science-backed alternatives could help you achieve your weight loss goals without breaking the bank or dealing with uncomfortable side effects.

What is GLP-1 and Why Does it Matter for Weight Loss?

"GLP-1 is a hormone that's made in your gut when you eat," Dr. Kate explains in her post. This crucial hormone performs multiple functions: signaling your pancreas to release insulin, improving satiety, and slowing down food digestion. Unlike medications that artificially boost GLP-1 activity, natural alternatives work with your body's own mechanisms for sustainable results.


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

The Problem with GLP-1 Medications

Dieting concept with scales on the wooden floorShutterstock

Dr. Kate highlights significant drawbacks of GLP-1 medications: "These drugs are expensive and rarely covered by insurance for folks who don't meet strict criteria." She notes that "50% of patients taking GLP-1 agonists experienced nausea," and according to a 2022 study, most participants regained their weight within a year after stopping the medication.

Natural Booster #1: Healthy Fats

pistachio in shell nuts in bowl on wooden table background.Shutterstock

"Often you need to eat more fat to lose fat," Dr. Kate reveals. Research shows that unsaturated, long-chain fatty acids strongly stimulate GLP-1 release. She specifically points to a study where "85 grams of pistachios" increased GLP-1 concentrations in overweight adults. Additionally, following a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil for 28 days significantly boosted post-meal GLP-1 levels.

Natural Booster #2: Protein-Rich Foods

women with holding a cardboard egg box full of her eggs. the girl takes one chicken egg from a white boxShutterstock

Research has found that "meals with higher amounts of protein stimulate GLP-1 secretion better than those with mostly carbs," Dr. Kate explains. She recommends eggs, which contain beneficial unsaturated fats and choline, and plain yogurt, which studies show can significantly increase GLP-1 production.


RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Natural Booster #3: Flavonoid-Rich Spices

Close-up,Turmeric,(curcumin),Powder,In,Wooden,Spoon,With,Fresh,RhizomeShutterstock

Dr. Kate identifies key spices that boost GLP-1: "Curcumin, the primary chemical in turmeric... cinnamon and rosemary." She also mentions green tea's EGCG content, though notes that concentrated supplements may be needed for optimal results.

Natural Booster #4: Berberine

Close,Up,Of,Berberine,Supplement,CapsulesShutterstock

"One of the natural GLP-1-boosting herbs that's getting a lot of attention is berberine," Dr. Kate shares. A meta-analysis found that "just one gram of concentrated berberine significantly lowered cholesterol, BMI, weight, fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c, and other metabolic markers."

Natural Booster #5: Gut-Supporting Probiotics

Woman, stomach and hand with heart in outdoor for exercise, diet, fitness and closeup. Female tummy, gut health and self love for wellness and training in the summer for healthy workout outside.Shutterstock

Dr. Kate emphasizes the importance of healthy gut bacteria: "These healthy bugs make compounds called postbiotics, one category being short-chain fatty acids." She specifically mentions the bacteria Akkermansia, which not only increases GLP-1 but also enhances fat burning through thermogenesis.


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

Natural Booster #6: Polyphenol-Rich Foods

Red juice pomegranate on dark backgroundShutterstock

To support beneficial gut bacteria, Dr. Kate recommends polyphenols, noting that "the ones found in pomegranate are especially good at supporting Akkermansia." This creates a synergistic effect, enhancing both gut health and GLP-1 production.

Natural Booster #7: Mediterranean Diet

Food products representing the Mediterranean diet which may improve overall health statusShutterstock

Dr. Kate points to research showing that following a Mediterranean diet, particularly one rich in olive oil, significantly increases GLP-1 levels. This dietary pattern combines many of the individual boosters into a sustainable eating approach.


RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

Combining Natural GLP-1 Boosters for Maximum Results

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

"The beauty of working with your body using natural GLP-1 boosters is that you can stack these strategies to maximize your weight loss and blood sugar balance," Dr. Kate explains. While these natural alternatives won't deliver overnight results like medications, they offer a sustainable path to weight management with minimal side effects. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

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.

anna-kaiser
Anna Kaiser
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.

There is some good news – and some bad – about weight loss drugs like ozempic. According to studies, the weekly jab will help you lose weight. However, research has also found that ozempic rebound weight gain is also real. According to a study in the Journal of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, the majority of people who take semaglutide gain most of the weight back within a year of stopping the medication. If you are on ozempic and want to keep the weight off, there is an effective way to do so: Exercise.

Anna Kaiser, global fitness leader and creator of the popular fitness brand, Anna Kaiser Studios, and personal trainer to stars like Kelly Ripa and Shakira has designed a sculpting workout you can do at home to not only help you maximize your ozempic results, but help you keep the weight off long after you are off the drug.

Related: 8 Essential Nutritious Foods That Actually Taste Amazing

Kaiser describes the workout as a “mix of Pilates and barre-inspired workouts with added functional bodyweight training,” she says. The goal of the workout is to sculpt your body, keeping the “most deconditioned muscles” – including inner/outer thighs, glutes, and the sides of your body – in mind. The workout pairs “muscular endurance with power to give you the most bang for your buck which gets you the quickest results when it comes to toning and strengthening,” she says. “You can always keep the heart rate and cardio moves low impact instead of jumping up high,” she explains. “You can keep your feet on the floor, or you can step side-by-side for jacks instead of jumping.”

She also encourages you to “really think about how they’re performing each of these exercises and not just getting through them.” This involves “going slower with a full range of motion” instead of “pushing the speed or trying to get through it as quickly as possible.”

Related: Achieve Your Dream Body With This Proven Workout and Meal Plan

All you need is a pair of 5 and 8-pound weights.

  1. Traveling Squat: Do this by squatting and walking the squat forward and back holding weights at chest for 30 seconds/
  2. The Dancer Deadlift: Do a grand plie center, aka sumo squat. Keeping your back flat, hinge forward center holding weights straight down (reaching to floor) while maintaining center sumo squat. Then return the body to center. Repeat slowly 8 times.
  3. Tap Backs: In chair pose, tap alternating leg back as you fly arms out to the side for 30 seconds.
  4. Warrior Challenge: Start in lateral warrior 2 and lunge into the right leg. Then, lean your upper body to the side, bringing your right hand to your right ankle and left arm to the ceiling. Return torso to warrior 2 position. Repeat 8 times.
  5. Take Off: Lateral lunge power press. Starting in the lateral right lung and holding weights, press off for a quick balance on the left leg, then return to the right lateral lunge. Repeat 15 times.
  6. Hold a Plank for 30 seconds.
  7. Warrior Challenge: Repeat on the left side, 8 times.
  8. Take Off: Repeat on the left side, 15 times.
  9. Twisted Tripod: Side plank to plank push up. Alternate sides. 5 to 10 times.
  10. Jumping Jacks or High Knees: 30 seconds.
Kelsey_Rose14
Copyright thekelseyrose_/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.

Unless you live under a rock, you are well aware that walking is one of the best workouts for losing weight and maintaining your overall health. However, getting the recommended steps to lose weight and burn fat can be difficult, especially if you have a job. Kelsey Rose is a fitness trainer and social media influencer with hundreds of thousands of followers. In a new post, she issues a “PSA” about walking, explaining that “the #1 tool for FAT LOSS for women is literally free!!” According to Kelsey, if you have a “sedentary” job where you only get in 2,500 steps a day, adding a 30-minute walk before and after work will help you burn an additional 260 calories a day, which could help you lose 10 to 15 pounds in 6 months if paired with an 80/20 diet. “10 other hot tips for hitting those daily steps when working a 9-5,” she writes.

1. Turn Your Morning Routine into Movement

Per Kelsey, the first thing you should do is incorporate walking into your morning routine. “Instead of scrolling or lingering over coffee, use 10-15 minutes in the morning to pace around your home, stretch, or go for a quick walk. I wake up in the morning and go outside first thing!” she writes.

2. Take Active Commutes

Turn your commute into a workout, Kelsey encourages. “If possible, walk or bike to work. If you drive, park farther away or get off public transport a stop early to squeeze in extra steps,” she says.

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

3. Walk During Meetings

Try and get your steps in while you work by multitasking, Kelsey suggests. “Turn phone calls or virtual meetings into walking meetings. Pop in your headphones and take your call while pacing or walking outside,” she says.

4. Use the Stairs

Turn your office stairwell into a StairMaster, suggests the trainer. “Ditch the elevator! Take the stairs whenever you can to sneak in extra movement,” she writes.

5. Set Hourly Step Goals

Set hourly goals instead of a daily goal to get your body moving. “Set a timer to remind yourself to get up every hour. Walk around the office or do a quick lap at home if you’re working remotely,” says Kelsey.

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

6. Take Your Lunch Break Outside

Use your lunch break as an opportunity to get fresh air plus exercise. “Go for a brisk walk after eating. It’s a great way to recharge while adding steps to your day,” she says.

7. Use a Smaller Water Bottle

While most experts recommend using large water bottles, a smaller one may help you stay more active. “A smaller bottle means more trips to refill it. Plus, staying hydrated keeps your energy up!” she writes.

8. Walk During Breaks

If you take breaks throughout the work day, use them as an opportunity to take mini walks. “Instead of scrolling on your phone, take a 5-10 minute stroll during your morning or afternoon breaks,” Kelsey writes.

9. Make Errands Active

Multitasking during errands can help you get even more activity in. “Walk to grab coffee, pick up lunch, or drop off documents. Even small tasks can help you rack up steps,” suggests Kelsey.

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

10. End Your Day with a Walk

Finally, use the end of the day as a time to reflect and get a workout in. “Wind down after work with a 20-30 minute evening walk. It’s a relaxing way to hit your step goals and clear your mind,” says Kelsey. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Molly Corcoran mollycorcoran.fit
Copyright mollycorcoran.fit/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 frustrated that the same weight loss tactics you used in her thirties are failing to work in your forties? It may be time to change your approach. Molly Corcoran is a weight loss warrior and coach who lost a total of 20 pounds after she turned 40. Now, she helps “35+ busy moms optimize their metabolism, build muscle, lose belly fat & find confidence again in peri/menopause,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she reveals three core habits at the center of her weight loss. “I stopped eating clean, ditched the orange theory classes over 40,” she writes, revealing her secret.

High-Intensity Workouts Were Impacting Her Hormones

According to Molly, high-intensity cardio workouts that worked for her when she was younger were not helping her lose weight. “The truth is ladies, the constant cardio workouts Like orange theory did a number to my hormones in peri/menopause,” she writes.

Eating “Clean” Was Also Working Against Her

Another thing that stopped working? “Paired that with trying to eat ‘clean’ so I called it for most of my life. There is no such thing as clean eating and if you’re still trying to eat clean in your 40s+ that’s exactly why you can’t lose the weight,” she continued.

She Made Three Changes

“When it all changed for me was when I left the intense cardio/weight classes and finally got control of my eating habits. Here are the 3 things I focused on that drive results,” she says.

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

She Started Tracking Protein and Calories

“I started tracking my protein and calories in @myfitness pal to educate myself on portions and got good at consistently hitting 140-150g protein daily. Also, eating carbs at every meal and getting a calorie deficit goal that was manageable so I stay consistent,” she said.

She Swapped Group Fitness for Progressive Overload Strength Training

“I left group x classes for good and started to shift my focus to progressive overload strength training. 3-4 strength days a week tracking how much I lifted, set, and allowed rest between sets to push in my lifts,” she writes. “Wanna change your body, leave the random workouts with cardio mixed in because that’s not strength training.”

She Started Walking

And third, she started moving more in general. “I started to monitor my daily movement outside of my workouts, focused on hitting 10k steps, and still do to this day 5 years later,” she writes.

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

She Got Serious About Nutrition

She also worked on her nutrition. “Bonus: I got serious about educating myself on adding more to my plate by adding more fruits and veggies to my plate, pairing that with healthy fat, and protein was how I lost the most weight.”

You Need to “Unlearn Everything You Thought Would Work"

“If you finally want to see results in your 40s on up, you need to unlearn everything you thought would work. Have a plan for both nutrition and exercise. I can assure you that the results will come when you get serious about what you put in your mouth!” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Dr. Dan Obesity Expert
Copyright Dr. Dan/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.

“Microdosing” is a catchy term that is progressively being used by influencers and mainstream media. The overall concept is that lowering a dose of something – ranging from mushrooms to pharmaceutical drugs – somehow makes it healthier and more acceptable. Recently, people have even been discussing microdosing GLP-1 drugs, including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. However, according to one doctor, this isn’t a good idea. Dr. Dan Burton (@theofficialdrdan) is a “pharmacist by training and an expert in obesity management and medicine.” In a new YouTube video, he discusses the trend and reveals exactly why you should avoid it.

There Are Lots of Mixed Messages About Weight Loss Drugs

He starts off by explaining that there are a lot of mixed messages surrounding weight loss drugs. “A number of influencers and alternative clinicians first came out and said, Ozempic and Wegovy are dangerous. Then they started marketing various supplements of their own that naturally increased GLP-1 and are actually better than Ozempic and Wegovy. And now some of them have pivoted and are starting to say that, ‘Oh, you know what? You should actually only microdose Ozempic and Wegovy because that means it's, it's safer for you.’” He notes that the “opinions and marketing tactics” have “changed over time as we've got more and more wallets involved.”

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

The Drugs Mimic the GLP-1 Hormone Naturally Produced by the Body

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

He continues to explain how the drugs work. “Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy and so on are medications that mimic the GLP-1 hormone that is naturally produced by our body. GLP-1 naturally helps to regulate our blood sugars as well as our appetite and satiety feelings,” he said. While they have been “revolutionary not only for obesity management but also diabetes management”, there is a “subset of individuals on the internet that will come out ringing the alarm bells to say otherwise.”

Some People Want to Say the Drugs Are “Dangerous” and “Unnatural” and Are Marketing Their Own Alternatives

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

Some of them have “quickly labeled these medications as being dangerous, unnatural, and started marketing and pushing their own natural safer supplements,” he says. “But that really didn't last too long because these medications, Ozempic and Wegovy have been shown to be so effective that the supplements just don't even touch them in terms of the results and benefits that could be had. In fact, some of the supplements don't do anything at all.”

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

And Now, Some Are Recommending Microdosing

Santiago, Chile, august 16th, 2023. Pen injection of semaglutide named \u201cozempic\u201d, is a diabetes medicine to improve blood sugarShutterstock

“Now some of them are pivoting and moving away from this,” he said. Enter microdosing, the concept of using just a little bit of the weight loss drug. “So what exactly is being sold? What is this microdosing of Ozempic actually mean?” he asks. He reveals that the usual starting dose of these drugs is 0.25 milligrams once a week. “What these alternative clinicians and such are saying is to take a dose that's much, much lower than that, but it's still the exact same medication just at a lower dose. It's not at a microdose, just a lower dose than what we usually use.”

While It Sounds “Safer and Fluffy” There Is No Science Backing It

Hands,In,Blue,Surgical,Gloves,Holding,Ozempic,Insulin,Injection,PenShutterstock

The smaller dose is “being branded in a different way to make it sound that it's safer and fluffy and everyone's gonna be happy. So it's not a healthier alternative, it's it's just a dosage adjustment. And there's nothing scientifically special about a micro dose. There is no data insights or anything like that that demonstrates the efficacy or better acceptability in that sort of thing of smaller doses,” he says.

Everybody Needs a Different Dose

WARSAW, POLAND-10 JAN, 2025: Ozempic is an anti-diabetic medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and an anti-obesity medication used for long-term weight management.Shutterstock

He explains that because everybody’s body is different, it’s important to work with your own clinician to determine the proper dose. “Some people are going to get a great response at a very low dose, and it could be less than 0.25 milligrams or whatever the usual starting dose is,” he says. “Some people are gonna need a much higher dose to get a response and get the efficacy that we're trying to get out of the medication. And spoiler alert, that's because everybody is different.”

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

You Want It to Be Effective Without Side Effects

Never fear, your pharmacist is here. Cropped shot of an attractive young female pharmacist working in a pharmacy.Shutterstock

“Ultimately, these medications have gotten so powerful that we want to figure out what's going to work for you so that we get the balance of the benefit of the medication, but it's not causing you to have horrible, terrible side effects that you can't tolerate and are ruining your life. And unfortunately for some people, they just can't tolerate the medication at all.”

He Says That Microdosing Ozempic Is Just “Marketing Fluff”

Cheerful young sportswoman resting after workout at the beach, taking a selfie, drinking water, sitting on a fitness matShutterstock

“So microdosing as a concept sounds really fancy and such like that, but it's actually just marketing fluff. And really we should be using these medications with your healthcare team and various other resources that help you with lifestyle changes in management to find the dosage, the plan, and the thing that works for you,” he continues, adding that it’s “dicey” when “influencers and alternative clinicians who don't have any expertise with the actual medications or how to properly monitor individuals that are on these medications” start promoting their specific microdosing protocol or coaching program.

Consult with Your Doctor

Female doctor filling patient insurance information

Shutterstock

In conclusion, if you have been prescribed a weight loss drug, “you can skip the microdosing consultation with some alternative clinician. You just need to continue working with your healthcare team and provider in order to find the dose and such that works for you as well,” he says.

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

While They Might Lower Doses, It Needs to Be Up to an Expert

Santiago, Chile, august 16th, 2023. Pen injection of semaglutide named \u201cozempic\u201d, is a diabetes medicine to improve blood sugarShutterstock

“And yes, as a caveat, we may use lower doses or adjust things as someone gets to their maintenance weight,” he adds. “It might end up being a very low dose of one of these medications. But again, it should be done by clinicians that have the expertise and knowledge to properly monitor and dose adjust things for you.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.