Are weight loss drugs really that bad for you?

It seems like everybody is talking about weight loss drugs like Ozempic. But, do they do more harm than good?

Welcome to 3 Easy Ways, my weekly newsletter where I share simple and actionable tips to get you moving, maximise your output and improve your overall week.

Each newsletter includes a short video demonstration of a workout or mobility routine, a health hack and a discussion of the latest industry trends.

What’s in store today:

  • A mobility workout to help improve your posture

  • I reveal if weight loss drugs are really bad for you

  • A podcast on ozempic and weight loss fads

1. A mobility workout that will help all you desk workers 🧘🏼‍♂️

One of the most common problems I see amongst new clients is neglecting their mobility.

If you’ve only got 30-45 minutes to exercise, people usually prioritise a strength or HIIT workout. But mobility is crucial for improving form and looking after your body long-term.

If you have a job which is predominantly desk based, you need to be particularly conscious of this because it can naturally make your posture worse.

Integrate exercises that stretch out these tight body parts at the start or within your workouts for maximum results.

Give the routine below a go and see what you think!

Workout: 

1. Cat cow x 5 each  

2. Cobra to childs pose x 20 seconds each 

3. Kneeling hip flexor stretch x 20 seconds each
 
4. Lying internal/external rotations x 10 

5. Lying thoracic rotations x 5 each 

6. Bent arm wall pec stretch x 20 seconds each

Watch the video for the full demonstration!

Enjoying this newsletter? Click the link below…

2. Weight loss drugs — are they really that bad?

It seems like everybody is talking about weight loss drugs like Ozempic.

Maybe it’s because the Kardashians are rumoured to have used it or because the media keeps reporting on it. Either way, Ozempic seems to be the most talked about weight-loss drug of this era.

So — what is it?

Ozempic or its scientific name, semaglutide, has previously been used as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. But, thanks to the Kardashians and other Hollywood stars it is now more widely known as a weight loss drug.

It’s usually prescribed to lower blood sugar levels. Ozempic works by increasing incretins (gut) derived hormones that are secreted after eating.

So — what has it got to do with weight loss?

The two main side effects, which is why it’s so successful as weight loss drug are:

  • Reducing appetite so naturally you eat less

  • Slows down the movement and digestion of food in your gut so you stay fuller for longer

Now — is it really that bad? My honest opinion…

Using ozempic has been proven to help people lose weight. But, the issue with any weight loss drug is that as soon as you stop taking them you are most likely to put that weight back on.

This is because your lifestyle hasn’t changed. Your appetite has just been suppressed.

The best way to achieve long-term, healthy fat-loss is through a balanced and calorie controlled diet.

Remember: you have to be in a calorie deficit to lose fat. This means consuming less calories than you are exerting.

Additionally, focusing on regular exercise will also help you lose fat and build muscle.

Using ozempic might be a quick fix. Your weight might reduce but your overall health won’t improve. If your lifestyle remains the same, the weight will probably be regained as no long-term change has been made.

If you want to lose fat, my best advice will always be to focus on your nutrition and level of activity first.

Make positive and healthy changes to your lifestyle. That way your results will last longer and your overall attitude towards food and fitness will improve.

Plus, you won’t have any of the nasty side effects to ozempic like diarrhoea or nausea.

3. If you want to learn more about weight loss drugs, listen to this podcast…

In this episode of Science VS, Professor Tricia Tan and Dr Daniela Hurtado discuss weight loss drugs, specifically ozempic. The drug is said to have helped people lose fat but is it actually safe?

Instead, ozempic could be doing more harm than good. Encouraging another dangerous weight loss fad…

Have a listen and see what you think.

That’s all for this week team.

Stay strong!

If you’re interested, here are a couple of ways I can help:

  1. If you have a question about health, wellness, exercise or nutrition, reply to this newsletter and I’ll try to answer it in next weeks newsletter.

  2. When you’re ready to get healthier and maximise your output, I can help you get there. I offer private 1:1 Personal Training in central London as well as Hybrid and Online Coaching. Join the waitlist for 1:1 personal training here.

  3. Want your organisation and employees to have access to a healthier lifestyle and increase productivity? We’ve got a wellness program coming that could be perfect. More on that soon…