GLP-1

The Latest on Natural Ozempic Alternatives: How To Lose Weight Without Pricey GLP-1s

From sipping creamy protein shakes to a smart sugar swap, these tricks make shedding pounds easier

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Weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy work by boosting a hormone called GLP-1 that controls blood sugar, curbs hunger and aids weight loss. And while GLP-1 drugs have been game-changers for weight management and other impressive health benefits, they can also be pricey and come with unwanted side effects. Fortunately, research shows that certain foods, dietary supplements and everyday habits can work as natural Ozempic alternatives by increasing your body’s own production of GLP-1 hormone—in some cases, by as much as 900 percent. Keep scrolling to see a roundup of the latest news and doctor-backed advice.

7 key takeaways on natural Ozempic alternatives

  • Whey protein paired with calcium delivered one of the biggest GLP-1 boosts found in research—up to 900 percent, according to a study published in the European Journal of Nutrition. Ricotta cheese and whey protein shakes made with milk are two accessible sources of this natural Ozempic alternative, though they’re far from the only GLP-1-boosting foods. [Full story]
  • Oats contain beta-glucan fiber that works similarly to Ozempic, forming a gel in the gut that slows digestion and stabilizes blood sugar. While the “oatzempic” trend isn’t a long-term miracle cure, a review in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care confirmed eating oats daily does lower fasting glucose levels and markers of insulin resistance. [Full story]
  • Ozempic and Wegovy can have potential downsides: costs up to $1,200 per month, side effects including nausea and fatigue, potential risks of thyroid tumors and pancreatitis and research showing people who stopped Wegovy regained two-thirds of lost weight within one year. If you and your doctor have decided GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic aren’t the best fit for you, natural alternatives can help. 
  • Leafy greens like spinach, kale and collards increased GLP-1 by 250 percent within 30 minutes, according to findings in the journal Appetite. Plus they reduced cravings for sweets by 93 percent for up to three hours. [Full story]
  • Replacing butter with 3 to 4 tablespoons of olive oil boosted GLP-1 by 43 percent within a single day, per research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Plus extra virgin olive oil tested 63 percent higher in beneficial polyphenols than refined versions.
  • Exercise made a major difference: People who got three hours of weekly exercise for 12 weeks saw GLP-1 increases 733 percent greater than less-active counterparts, according to an International Journal of Preventive Medicine study, making good old fashioned exercise a natural alternative to Ozempic.
  • Artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame-K work against GLP-1: One study found daily use lowered levels by 35 percent within two weeks. The sweetener allulose, by contrast, lifted women’s GLP-1 by 70 percent in one hour. Bonus: One study found allulose helped women shrink their waists 11 times faster. [Full story]

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This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.

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