A year ago, I was speaking to a client. “Did you hear about Ozempic?” she asked. At that point I had, but I did not bother to do much research about it. As far as I was concerned it was another quick fix that did not result in sustainable fat loss. “It’s groundbreaking!” She continued. “Aren’t you worried about your job?” People will start using Ozempic and won’t need personal trainers anymore!”

Ah. Another person who thinks people only see personal trainers for fat loss.

I was not worried, because as someone who works in the fitness industry, I am often asked about the latest fat loss interventions. There's a new one every couple of years. (Remember the keto diet and detox teas?)

Since that day, I have found that I get asked about Ozempic at least once a week. It’s only fair that I do some research right?

Semaglutides such as Ozempic and Wegovy are created for clinically obese and/or individuals with type two diabetes. (Ozempic for type 2 diabetes and Wegovy for clinically obese Individuals)People do use both semaglutides for weight loss. Ozempic affects areas of the brain responsible for regulating appetite and fullness by slowing the movement of food from the stomach to the intestine. In addition to increasing feelings of fullness, both Wegovy and Ozempic reduce cravings for high-fat, calorically dense foods. If you are someone who is considering taking Ozempic, it is important to consider the possible side effects listed below:

1. Thyroid Tumors
2. Thyroid Cancer
3. Inflammation of the pancreas
4. Changes in vision
5. Nausea
6. Vomiting
7. Stomach Pain
8. Kidney Problems
9. Dizziness

Ozempic should be used as intended for individuals who are clinically obese and/or diagnosed with type 2 diabetes due to the potential life-saving benefits. Those with a BMI over 30 are at risk for serious health conditions like heart disease, cancer, and stroke. Consider Ozempic as a last resort, similar to bariatric surgery, for these individuals. While on Ozempic, they can gradually adopt healthy habits or seek therapy for any eating disorder issues. Obesity is a multifaceted issue that often requires more than just eating less and moving more. Despite its side effects, Ozempic can be beneficial for specific individuals, but addressing the root cause of the problem is essential. Incorporating more physical activity, consuming nutrient-dense foods, or engaging in therapy may be necessary in conjunction with taking Ozempic. The drug website emphasizes using Ozempic alongside lifestyle changes and underscores that it is not a long-term solution.

Regrettably, a solution originally designed to help individuals at high risk of serious illnesses is now being used by the general population. Many people seek to shed 10 to 30 lbs rapidly without committing to the effort required for lasting, sustainable outcomes. This approach is viewed as a temporary solution that fails to address the underlying issue. It is akin to sustaining an injury and opting to take medication daily instead of seeking the guidance of a physiotherapist to strengthen the surrounding muscles of the joint and permanently resolve the injury.

Relying on a drug, pill, tea, or any quick fix to maintain a healthy weight is not advised, especially when it comes with a range of harmful side effects. Individuals who depend on medications like Ozempic or other semaglutides are at a high risk of regaining weight once they discontinue use, as these drugs are not intended for long-term consumption. Verification of this fact can be easily obtained by visiting the Ozempic website or consulting with your family doctor. As humans, we are not designed to lead sedentary lifestyles and consume low-nutrient foods all day. For most people, sustainable weight loss can be achieved through healthier behaviours and habits.

I always emphasize this for every fat-loss trend or diet: If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is. There is no quick fix for achieving permanent fat loss through a simple injection, tea, pill, etc. It's important to note that I said "permanent fat loss." These methods will not lead to sustained, long-term fat loss. If they did, then everyone would be fit and healthy. However, the reality is that obesity rates remain exceptionally high in North America.

Opting for a 30-minute daily walk and incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet will yield more long-term benefits than Ozempic. The challenge lies in the fact that we inhabit a society that craves instant gratification. We are drawn to promises of swift results with minimal effort.

And that is why promises of quick results will always sell.