A new diet trend called ‘Ozempic’ diet aims to mimic the effects of the drug without the expense associated with it.
Initially, you might think, ‘any diet will result in weight loss.’ However, this diet involves consuming foods that replicate the effects of Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) pens.
GLP-1 agonists are medications that simulate a natural hormone to decrease blood sugar levels, suppress appetite, assist in weight reduction, and manage diabetes.
It’s important to note that Ozempic is not approved for weight loss; it is primarily used for treating type 2 diabetes.
The current trend aiming to reproduce the effects of these GLP-1 agonists is known as ‘oatzempic,’ which is a combination of oats, water, and lime juice. TikTok users claim it reduces hunger similarly to the actual medication.
GLP-1 is a hormone present in everyone, released into our bodies when we consume food, and it significantly influences how hunger is regulated.
“These pathways are highly nuanced, involving many different hormones,” said Chris Damman, a gastroenterologist and clinical associate professor at the University of Washington, according to the BBC.
Our diets can naturally mimic GLP-1 weight loss drugs, but achieving this requires two essential components.
These components are fiber and polyphenols, which are the primary natural GLP-1 enhancers, found in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts.
“Fibre is the preferred food for the trillions of bacteria living in our gut,” explains Mary Sco, a nutrition writer and physician.
These gut microbes convert fiber and polyphenols into compounds that signal to our bodies that we’re full.
Even the timing and order of eating are crucial, as research indicates that consuming protein and vegetables before carbohydrates can enhance GLP-1 levels, and morning meals may elicit stronger hormonal responses than late-night snacks.
Additionally, monounsaturated fats, such as those in avocados, olive oil, and nuts, can provide an additional boost to our bodies.
Ultimately, Damman mentioned that a diet promoting the natural production of GLP-1 is reliant on the intake of whole foods.
The gastroenterologist found humor in people attempting to replicate the effects of weight-loss drugs through approaches like the ‘Oatzempic’ diet.
“The journey has come full-circle,” he says. “All roads lead back to eating whole foods – there’s no substitute for them.”