Introduction
As a dietitian, I understand the importance of staying informed about new medical treatments and their potential impacts on our health.
Often clients will first talk to their doctor about their desire or need to lose weight for health reasons. Because of the way our health system is set up, weight loss medications often come part of the conversation – sometimes even before talking about nutrition or suggesting seeing a dietitian (disappointingly).
Recently, a medication called Ozempic has garnered significant attention, particularly for its use in managing type 2 diabetes and assisting with weight loss. Ozempic is approved by Medsafe for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It’s not approved for weight loss
Let’s delve into what Ozempic is, how it works, and what you need to know if you’re considering it as part of your health journey.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic, also known by its generic name semaglutide, is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. Initially developed for the management of type 2 diabetes, Ozempic has also been found to aid in weight loss, making it a dual-purpose treatment for many individuals.
How Does Ozempic Work?
Ozempic works by mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) which is naturally produced in the gut. GLP-1 has several metabolic effects:
- Blood Sugar Regulation: It stimulates insulin secretion in response to meals, helping to lower blood sugar levels.
- Appetite Control: It slows down gastric emptying, which helps you feel fuller for longer.
- Weight Loss: By reducing appetite and increasing feelings of satiety, it can help with weight loss.
Benefits of Ozempic
Managing Type 2 Diabetes
For those with type 2 diabetes, Ozempic offers several benefits:
- Improved Glycemic Control: Ozempic helps lower HbA1c levels, a key marker of long-term blood glucose control.
- Cardiovascular Benefits: Studies have shown that Ozempic can reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Weight Loss
Beyond diabetes management, Ozempic has been noted for its effectiveness in weight loss. In clinical trials, many participants experienced significant weight loss, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with obesity-related health issues.
There is a downside: side effects
Understanding the potential side effects of Ozempic is crucial for making an informed decision. Common side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common, especially during the initial phase.
- Injection Site Reactions: Some individuals may experience redness or discomfort at the injection site.
- Hypoglycemia: When combined with other diabetes medications, there is a risk of low blood sugar levels.
It’s essential to discuss these potential side effects with your healthcare provider and understand how to manage them.
The other downside: cost
The important detail to also acknowledge in a New Zealand context is cost. Ozempic is not funded, and will cost you upwards of $500 New Zealand dollars per month to use.
How can you get the effects of Ozempic with diet and lifestyle?
Ozempic exerts it’s activity by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 is naturally produced in the gut, but it is produced in large quantities in response to consuming less processed whole-foods.
Ways you can enhance your GLP-1 levels to support weight loss include:
- Fibre: Increase fibre intake from whole-food sources: Soluble fibre found in oats, barley, beans, lentils, fruits, and vegetables helps stimulate GLP-1 secretion.
- Prebiotic fibre: Include prebiotic fibres such as inulin and partially hydrolysed guar gum. Prebiotics can enhance GLP-1 levels as they are carried throughout the intestine and feed beneficial probiotics in the gut.
- Probiotics: Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi support a healthy gut microbiome, which can influence GLP-1 production.
- Protein: Protein is the most satiating of the three macronutrients. Part of the satiating effects that protein has are mediated through GLP-1.
- Healthy fat: Like protein, fat is also satiating and digests slowly. Elements in a meal which slow the digestion, will lead to a more favourable GLP-1 response, and therefore help weight loss. This is why healthy fat, such as olive oil, is an important part of a heathy dietary approach for weight loss.
Regardless of what decision you make around medication, as a dietitian, I’m going to always help guide my clients to optimise their nutrition for the best metabolic health results. Either way, enhancing natural GLP-1, improving nutrient intake, and blood sugar control with nutrition will be beneficial.
Practical Tips for Integrating Ozempic and Lifestyle Changes
If you and your healthcare provider decide on using a medication like Ozempic, here are some practical tips for integrating it into your health regimen:
Starting slow and steady
- Both diet and medications have effects. Give yourself time to slowly integrate lifestyle changes and medications.
- Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
- Be Patient: Give your body time to adjust to the medication. Initial side effects often diminish over time.
Nutrition Considerations
- Meet with a dietitian to discuss a nutrition strategy that will work for you. This consultation is not only about “what” to eat, but will acknowledge your own lifestyle context and needs.
- With the help of a dietitian, assess nutrient status of key metabolic markers and consider supplementation to optimise levels.
Regular Monitoring
- Be aware of potential side effects. If you experience negative side effects, feed this back to your practitioner to discuss an appropriate plan forward.
- Check-ins: Schedule regular check-ins with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
- Self-Monitoring: Keep track of your blood sugar levels, weight, and any side effects you experience.
Conclusion
Ozempic is a promising medication that offers significant benefits. In New Zealand, it is approved by Medsafe for the treatment of type 2 diabetes but not specifically for weight loss. It’s a tool not a be all and end all solution. The key to maintaining weight loss is by developing comprehensive health plan that includes nutrition, exercise, and health monitoring.
If you’re considering Ozempic, I encourage you to have an open and honest discussion with your healthcare provider. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks and offer guidance on where you can find appropriate support through the process.
