Since weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy gained popularity, many influencers have been sharing videos promoting “natural” alternatives to these medications. But is there really a “natural Ozempic”? Dr. Karan Rajan, an NHS surgeon and health content creator, recently addressed this topic on Instagram.
The Myth of “Natural Ozempic”
In his post, Dr. Karan debunked the idea of natural Ozempic. He explained that claims like “eat this ancient grain and watch the pounds melt away” or “this magical tea mimics Ozempic” are completely unfounded. According to Dr. Rajan, no food can replicate the effects of a weight loss drug like Ozempic.
Why Natural Ozempic Is Overhyped and Inaccurate
Dr. Rajan clarified that Ozempic is a pharmaceutical-grade, lab-engineered molecule that specifically targets GLP-1 receptors with precision. This engineered molecule remains active in your system for up to a week, unlike any food or herb. He noted, “No ingredient, no ancient root from Instagram wellness pages, can replicate what a weight loss drug does.”
While some foods can stimulate the body’s natural GLP-1 production, Dr. Rajan likened the effect to comparing a sparkler to a fireworks show. “Foods provide a quick flicker of GLP-1, lasting minutes to a few hours, while Ozempic creates a sustained hormonal symphony in the background,” he explained.
The Science Behind Satiety
Dr. Rajan explained how certain foods contribute to satiety but not in the same way that Ozempic does. Foods high in soluble fiber, such as oats, lentils, chia seeds, flax seeds, and apples, ferment in the gut into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), like butyrate. SCFAs stimulate the release of satiety hormones like GLP-1, PYY, and CCK. However, this effect is temporary and not as long-lasting as the appetite suppression caused by drugs like Ozempic.
Protein-rich foods, such as lean meats, eggs, Greek yogurt, tofu, and legumes, can also trigger the release of GLP-1 and PYY while reducing hunger hormones like ghrelin. But again, the effect is modest and short-lived.
Dr. Rajan’s Conclusion
Dr. Rajan concluded by emphasizing that while we love the idea of gaining control over our biology with a “magic smoothie” or “superfood,” the reality is far more complex. “Biology doesn’t work like that,” he said. “You can’t out-fiber a GLP-1 receptor agonist.”
He reminded his audience, “Ozempic is a drug. Broccoli is broccoli. No amount of chia seeds will replace pharmacology—unless you can convince your pancreas to start moonlighting as a pharmaceutical factory.”
Final Thought:
As appealing as the idea of natural alternatives may be, Dr. Rajan reinforces that there is no substitute for scientifically developed medications like Ozempic when it comes to weight loss.
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