97: “Nature’s Ozempic”: Miracle or Marketing Myth?

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Are you seeing weight loss ads promoting miracle supplements and "plant-based peptides" claiming to rival GLP-1 medications? With so much misinformation circulating, it’s easy to feel skeptical. The reality is that many of these products are predatory scams, targeting vulnerable people with obesity who are desperately seeking solutions. But how do we distinguish between legitimate, science-backed treatments and misleading promises? In this post, we’ll explore how to identify red flags, make informed decisions, and build a health team that genuinely supports your goals.

Protecting Yourself from Weight Loss Scams

When it comes to weight loss, many people with obesity are incredibly vulnerable. There's often a complex web of factors involved, including physical discomfort from fatigue, pain, and metabolic dysfunction. Alongside these challenges, there's a societal pressure to conform to a "thin ideal," despite the fact that being thin doesn't guarantee better health for everyone. The additional stigma and bias faced by people with obesity, from higher health risks to lower wages or mistreatment in social settings, only adds to the emotional weight. With all of this at play, it’s no surprise that many feel desperate for a solution—and unfortunately, it’s in these moments of vulnerability that scams often thrive.

Many companies and influencers are preying on this desperation, marketing unproven, often dangerous weight loss supplements and products. These so-called "miracle pills" are usually promoted as quick fixes, with claims that they can deliver results similar to well-established treatments like GLP-1 medications. However, these products rarely have any scientific backing, and more often than not, they make exaggerated promises to people who are simply looking for a way to improve their health. It’s heartbreaking to see vulnerable people being taken advantage of by these scams, especially when the products being sold can cause more harm than good.

So, what can you do to protect yourself? First and foremost, it’s essential to involve your medical team when considering any weight loss product or treatment. Whenever a patient asks me about a supplement or weight loss treatment they’ve seen online, my first step is to review the product’s ingredients and determine whether it's safe and scientifically sound. I also make it a point to check for red flags, like claims that sound too good to be true or the promotion of products that are not FDA-approved or regulated.

For example, just recently, someone shared a viral video from a clinic claiming to offer a drug called retatrutide—a medication that is still in clinical trials and not yet available to the public. Similarly, other influencers and clinics are advertising oral versions of drugs like tirzepatide (sold as injectable products under the brand names Mounjaro or Zepbound). These oral versions don’t exist, and there's no research to suggest that an oral form would have the same effectiveness as the injectable version. This lack of regulation and accountability is a major issue, and without proper medical oversight, it’s easy for patients to be misled.

So, how do you navigate this landscape and avoid falling victim to scams? 

• Consult with your medical team: Always involve your healthcare provider when considering weight loss products or treatments. They can help you assess whether a product is safe and effective for your unique health needs.
• Check for red flags: Be wary of products making exaggerated claims or promising "quick fixes." Look out for anything that seems too good to be true, especially if it’s not FDA-approved or lacks scientific backing.
• Research the ingredients: Before trying any new supplement, take a closer look at the ingredients. A medical professional can help you determine if any of them might cause harm or interfere with any current medications you are taking.
• Verify product legitimacy: If a product claims to be a new drug or treatment, check whether the product is actually available. If it's in clinical trials, it's not yet on the market—and certainly not available through regulated channels.
• Understand the risks of unregulated supplements: Many influencers or clinics are selling products without proper oversight. Without batch testing and reputable sourcing, you might be taking something that could do more harm than good.

Finding the Right Support: A Tailored Approach to Weight Loss

Weight loss can be isolating, especially for those with chronic conditions. Finding the right support system is crucial for both physical and emotional well-being. Support groups can provide a sense of community, alleviating loneliness and offering encouragement. However, it’s important to find a group that aligns with your needs and feels safe and inclusive.

Collaboration with Trainers and Medical Teams

Personal trainers can be invaluable, but it’s essential to work with those who understand your specific health needs and collaborate with your medical team. Misconceptions, like the idea that GLP-1 medications cause only muscle loss, can hinder progress. The best approach involves trainers, doctors, and patients working together to ensure balanced fitness and health.

Personalized Weight Loss Approaches

Weight loss is not one-size-fits-all. What works for one person may not work for another. Whether it’s a structured program like Weight Watchers, Peloton groups, or personalized coaching, find what feels right for you. Don't hesitate to pivot or try something new if your current method isn’t working.

Trusting Professionals Who Listen

Choose professionals who are open to discussing your concerns and adapting plans as needed. If something feels off or too good to be true, it’s worth consulting with a trusted healthcare provider. The right guidance, whether from a trainer or doctor, can make all the difference in navigating weight loss in a healthy, sustainable way.

P.S. I know the holiday season can get overwhelming, so I wanted to share a quick reminder from this week’s podcast episode to help you manage stress. The Nagoski sisters, in their book Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle and their interview with Brené Brown, shared seven simple but powerful ways to complete the stress cycle. I’ve found these to be so effective, and I’m passing them along to you as a holiday gift. Here they are:

1. Exercise – Movement is key! Whether it's dancing, stretching, or even just tensing and relaxing your muscles, any type of movement counts to release built-up stress.
2. Breathing – Deep breathing is one of the quickest ways to activate your relaxation response and calm your nervous system.
3. Positive Social Interaction – Connecting with others, whether it’s a chat with a friend, family member, or coworker, can help you feel supported and boost your mood.
4. Laughter – Let yourself laugh deeply and freely. It doesn’t matter if it's at a silly video or a funny story—laughter releases stress and lightens your heart.
5. Affection – A simple 20-second hug from a loved one can help reduce stress. Affection, whether from a partner, child, or pet, works wonders.
6. Crying – Don’t hold back tears. Crying releases stress hormones and can be incredibly therapeutic. It’s part of the natural process of completing the stress cycle.
7. Creative Expression – Find an outlet for your creativity, whether it’s cooking, crafting, painting, or even making a playlist. Creative activities help you process emotions and restore balance.

I encourage you to choose at least one (or more) of these this holiday season to help you stay grounded and avoid burnout. Remember, the holidays are meant to be a time to recharge, and it’s okay to take a step back when you need it.

You can always find more info about these strategies and listen to the full interview with the Nagoski sisters here.

Take care of yourself—you deserve it!