Ozempic. Wegovy. Where Do I Stand?

By Mike Thomas, NBHWC March 14, 2024

As a health coach who cares about helping people to live a healthier life by eating more fruits and veggies, I want to talk about something a lot of people are curious about: GLP-1s. You might have heard of Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy. These medicines are getting a lot of attention because they can help with losing weight, and a lot of people are hopeful about them.

But, like any medicine, it’s important to look at the good and the not-so-good sides to understand them better. Recently, I’ve observed numerous discussions and conversations about these medications spreading across social media and news outlets.

Because of this, many of you have been asking me questions like, “Can these medicines really make losing weight easy? Are there any side effects I should worry about? If I start taking them and lose weight, can I stop using them later?”

I’m here to help answer these questions and more, with the goal of giving you the full picture in a way that’s easy to understand. 

The Allure of Quick Fixes

In an era where quick fixes are often sought after for complex health issues, GLP-1s stand out as a beacon of hope for many. Their ability to facilitate weight loss, alongside managing diabetes, positions them as a seemingly attractive option.

However, beneath the surface of these promising outcomes lie concerns and side effects of GLP-1s, such as  nausea/vomiting, diarrhea and visual problems that cannot be overlooked.

Wegovy for Life?

Last year, I attended a presentation by Novo Nordisk, the company that makes Wegovy, because I wanted to learn more about this drug. Many of my clients, whom I assist in improving their health and losing weight through a plant-based diet, have inquired whether Wegovy could benefit them.

During the event, representatives from Novo Nordisk emphasized the necessity of continuing Wegovy treatment for weight management in a video presentation shared with us.

When I sought clarification on whether the drug needed to be taken indefinitely, I received no clear response. Additionally, there were multiple references to the drug’s warning label, highlighting a potential increased risk of specific thyroid tumors.

The Whole Food Plant-Based Program: A Natural Alternative

Contrasting sharply with the pharmaceutical route is a whole food plant-based lifestyle, which champions natural weight loss through a plant-based diet.

This approach not only parallels the short-term weight loss results of GLP-1s but also promotes long-term health benefits. This diet is sustainable, beneficial for pregnancy, environmentally friendly, and devoid of the side effects associated with drug-based interventions.

The WFPB lifestyle underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of obesity and diabetes through dietary changes rather than relying solely on medications.

Beyond Weight Loss: Health Perspective

Dr. John McDougall is an American physician and author known for advocating a low-fat plant-based diet that emphasizes starchy foods and vegetables.  Not surprisingly, he has a negative view of these new medications.  His critique of GLP-1’s extends to the healthcare industry’s reliance on medical procedures and screenings, which he argues do not effectively reduce mortality rates.

Instead, a shift towards preventive measures, such as adopting a starch-based diet, can avert many diseases and improve overall health. This approach not only challenges conventional medical advice but also aligns with a broader call for systemic change in health approaches.

Critique of GLP-1s and the Healthcare Industry

Critics like Calley Means, with pharmaceutical industry experience, states a similar compelling message. He argues that drugs like GLP-1s address symptoms rather than the root causes of metabolic dysfunction and obesity.

He has explored deeper into the role of government policies and industry practices that perpetuate poor health outcomes, highlighting the influence of pharmaceutical companies in shaping public perception and medical practices.

The Call for Systemic Change

The conversation around GLP-1s and similar pharmaceutical interventions opens up a larger dialogue on the need for a holistic shift in managing health crises. This includes a move away from dependency on medications to embracing diet, exercise, and environmental factors as primary interventions.

Such a shift challenges the profit-driven motives of the healthcare industry and calls for a reevaluation of public health policies and practices.

Where Do I Stand?

Ultimately, I stand with the client. As a health coach, my goal is to empower you with information that enables you to make informed choices about your health journey.

While GLP-1s may offer a solution for some, it’s essential to consider the broader implications of opting for pharmaceutical interventions over natural alternatives like a Whole Food Plant-Based lifestyle.

By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each approach, you can choose a path that aligns with your health goals, values, and long-term well-being.

The journey toward health and weight loss is multifaceted, encompassing more than just the physical aspect. It involves making informed decisions that not only address immediate concerns but also contribute to overall health and sustainability.

As we navigate these choices, let’s remain committed to approaches that honor our bodies, fostering a healthier, more vibrant life for all.

Talk to Mike

If you are considering venturing into the WFPB world for healthier outcomes in your life, be it weight loss, lowering cholesterol or having more energy and would like guidance or coaching, feel free to reach out for a free 30-minute conversation to help you get started on your path towards better health.

God Bless,

Mike

Learn about Mike

This blog is for educational and informational purposes only and solely as a self-help tool for your own use. I am not providing medical, psychological, or nutrition therapy advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your own medical practitioner. Always seek the advice of your own medical practitioner and/or mental health provider about your specific health situation. For my full Disclaimer, please go to CoachMikeThomas.com.