Whenever an expensive new drug that solves a common health problem comes to market, hype about “cheaper” or “natural” versions inevitably appears on social media and on package labels.
Not surprisingly, this has largely happened since the introduction of the popular weight loss and diabetes drug semaglutide, sold under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus.
Of course, a number of inexpensive weight loss supplements appeared before semaglutide. “A number of herbal and natural supplements claim to aid weight loss, including caffeine, green tea extract, magnesium, garcinia cambogia, chitosan, conjugated linoleic acid, guar gum, and even laxatives,” says Christopher McGowan, MD. To tell. your real weight loss Diplomat living in Cary, North Carolina American Board of Obesity Medicine. (Like other board-certified physicians, the Diplomate of ABOM designation means that the physician has completed continuing education in weight management medicine, an area that has long been neglected in medical school training.) )
However, the explosive popularity of the drug semaglutide has led to claims on social media that certain supplements are “substitutes” or “ducks” to Ozempic. There are two things that stand out to him. Berberine, also known as “nature’s Ozempic,” and psyllium husk, also known as “the poor man’s Ozempic.”
But do these Ozempic alternatives really help you lose weight? And are they safe to take, whether you take them or not?
Why do people use Budget Ozempic?
It is not difficult to see why Ozempic alternatives are attractive to many would-be semaglutide users. Supplements are generally more available and much cheaper than the prescription drug Ozempic, which costs more than $900 a month for weekly injections without insurance. novo nordiskManufacturer of Ozempic.
“Our current system limits access to comprehensive obesity care, including limited access to FDA-approved medications that show significant benefit and safety in treating obesity.” says. Jonathan D. Parker, DO, an Alabama-based obesity medicine specialist and director of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. “This is why many over-the-counter drug alternatives are becoming popular as patients seek treatment.”
Additionally, due to concerns about the potential downsides of semaglutide, dietary supplements may offer a “natural” feel that many people prefer. These include everything from common side effects such as indigestion and nausea to long-term problems such as malnutrition due to reduced food intake and potentially increased risk of thyroid cancer.
Is berberine really natural ozempic?
Berberine is a supplement derived from shrubs such as barberry, Oregon grape, and turmeric. It is most commonly sold in capsules, but may also be sold in powder form. Berberine activates an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which helps regulate metabolism and lower blood sugar levels. Therefore, berberine is nicknamed “nature’s Ozempic”.
To understand the appeal of berberine, you need to look at its price. A month’s supply retails for $20 to $30.
Additionally, there is limited evidence of berberine’s benefits. “Unfortunately, most studies evaluated [berberine’s] Results are small, nonrandomized, and prone to bias. In other words, the evidence currently available is insufficient to support most of the health claims made by berberine,” says Dr. McGowan.
Still, berberine is a relatively low-risk supplement to try. “In my opinion, berberine is generally safe and well-tolerated, with gastrointestinal side effects being the most common complaint,” Parker says.
Why is psyllium husk called “poor man’s Ozempic”?
Psyllium husk, another common substitute for Ozempic, does not function through complex metabolic pathways. It is a fiber supplement obtained from the seeds of plants of the genus. pantago. (You may find this in digestive supplements such as Metamucil, which is used for occasional constipation.)
For most people, you can’t go wrong with consuming more fiber. However, psyllium husk can have its drawbacks. Side effects such as bloating and diarrhea may occur. To reduce this possibility, take with at least 8 ounces of water and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
conclusion
Ultimately, Parker says obesity is a chronic disease that is best managed in collaboration with your medical team. Together we can decide which supplements to include in your treatment plan.
