London, Oct 6: With weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy gaining global attention, a new trend — the so-called “Ozempic diet” — claims people can achieve similar results naturally through food. But experts say the reality is more complex.
Drugs such as Ozempic work by mimicking GLP-1, a hormone that reduces appetite and slows digestion, helping users eat less. Some online creators suggest that foods rich in fibre and polyphenols — such as oats, fruits, nuts, and vegetables — can trigger the same hormone response.
Gastroenterologist Chris Damman from the University of Washington says these foods do stimulate natural GLP-1 production, but not to the same extent as the drugs. “These medications tap into pathways that our modern diets have disrupted,” he explained.
Nutrition experts add that eating whole foods, healthy fats like olive oil and avocado, and consuming meals earlier in the day can naturally boost GLP-1 levels and improve metabolism. However, for people with obesity or metabolic issues, medical intervention may still be necessary.
“The journey comes full circle,” says Damman. “All roads lead back to eating whole foods — there’s no substitute.”
Keywords: Ozempic diet, GLP-1 foods, weight loss naturally, Ozempic vs diet, Wegovy, fibre and polyphenols, appetite suppression
