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I'm sure your reading this because you have a friend, relative or coworker who has taken or been recommended drugs like Ozempic by their doctor to lose weight.

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Maybe you have been considering taking one these drugs because it has been recommended by your doctor or a friend.

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What exactly is Ozempic and how does it work? what are the positives (if any) and what are the side effect and negative risks of taken such a questionable  weight loss drug.

Ozempic (Semaglutide)

How It Works:

• Mimics GLP-1: Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it mimics a hormone called GLP-1.
• Increases Insulin: It helps your body release more insulin when your blood sugar is high.
• Decreases Glucagon: It lowers the amount of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels.
• Slows Digestion: It slows down the emptying of your stomach, which helps you feel full longer and reduces appetite.

Wegovy (Semaglutide)

How It Works:

• Similar to Ozempic: Wegovy also mimics the GLP-1 hormone.
• Appetite Control: It primarily helps reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, leading to weight loss.
• Regulates Insulin: It assists in regulating insulin levels and improving blood sugar control.
• Slows Stomach Emptying: Like Ozempic, it slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach.

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

How It Works:

• Dual Hormone Action: Mounjaro is unique because it acts on two hormones, GLP-1 and GIP.
• Boosts Insulin: It increases insulin secretion when blood sugar is high.
• Lowers Glucagon: It reduces glucagon levels, helping to lower blood sugar.
• Enhances Fullness: By acting on both GLP-1 and GIP, it enhances feelings of fullness and reduces appetite more effectively.
• Slows Digestion: It slows the movement of food through the stomach, which helps with appetite control and weight loss.

Summary

• Ozempic and Wegovy work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to increase insulin, decrease glucagon, and slow digestion, which helps control blood sugar and reduce appetite.
• Mounjaro goes a step further by also mimicking the GIP hormone, enhancing its effects on blood sugar control and appetite reduction even more.

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How Much Weight Loss Can One Expect taking Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro?

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How Much Weight Loss is from Muscle?

When taking drugs like Ozempic (Semaglutide), Wegovy (Semaglutide), or Mounjaro (Tirzepatide), some of the weight lost may come from muscle mass, not just fat. Here's what research and experts suggest:

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Muscle Loss with GLP-1 Medications

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1. Proportion of Muscle Loss:
   • Studies have shown that 25-30% of the weight lost while using GLP-1 drugs can come from lean body mass (which includes muscle, water, and other non-fat tissues).
   • For example, if someone loses 20 pounds, 5-6 pounds might be lean mass.
2. Why Muscle Loss Happens:
   • Calorie Deficit: Rapid weight loss often leads to muscle loss because the body breaks down both fat and muscle for energy.
   • Reduced Appetite: These drugs significantly reduce appetite, which can lead to inadequate protein intake and insufficient calorie consumption to preserve muscle.
   • Lack of Resistance Training: Without strength training, the body is less likely to maintain muscle during weight loss.

What's the problem with losing muscle? Any program, diet or drug that causes you to lose muscle of any kind is flawed and does not have your best interest in mind.

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Muscle is your fat burning machine so if you lose any then you lose your ability to burn and keep fat off.

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Muscle is essential for overall health, functionality, and longevity. It plays a critical role in numerous bodily functions beyond just physical strength or athletic performance. Here's why muscle is so important:

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1. Metabolic Benefits

• Burns More Calories at Rest: Muscle tissue is metabolically active, meaning it burns more calories than fat, even when you're not moving.
• Improves Insulin Sensitivity: More muscle helps your body regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic disorders.
• Prevents Weight Regain: Muscle helps maintain a higher resting metabolic rate (RMR), making it easier to sustain weight loss over time.

2. Physical Strength and Functionality

• Supports Movement: Muscles enable all movement, from simple daily tasks (walking, standing, lifting) to complex athletic performance.
• Injury Prevention: Strong muscles stabilize joints and reduce the risk of injuries, particularly in the lower back, knees, and shoulders.
• Maintains Mobility: As you age, muscle mass is key to staying independent and performing everyday activities like climbing stairs or carrying groceries.

3. Bone Health

• Increases Bone Density: Strength training stimulates bone growth, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Reduces Falls in Aging: Muscle strength improves balance and coordination, preventing falls and their associated complications in older adults.

4. Longevity and Aging

• Delays Aging: Muscle loss (sarcopenia) accelerates with age, leading to frailty and health complications. Preserving muscle slows down this process.
• Improves Recovery: Muscle is a reservoir of amino acids that the body can use to heal and repair after illness or injury.
• Linked to Lifespan: Studies show that greater muscle mass and strength are associated with lower mortality rates.

5. Hormonal and Immune Health

• Regulates Hormones: Muscle mass can positively influence hormone levels, including testosterone and growth hormone, which are vital for both men and women.
• Boosts Immune Function: Muscle stores proteins and amino acids that play a role in the immune response and help fight infections.

6. Mental and Emotional Health

• Improves Mood: Resistance training can increase the release of endorphins, improving mental health and reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Enhances Confidence: Physical strength and improved appearance from lean muscle can boost self-esteem and body image.

7. Athletic and Recreational Performance

• Enhances Endurance: Strong muscles improve stamina and the ability to perform activities for longer durations.
• Improves Athletic Ability: Muscle power and coordination are key for sports performance and recreational activities.

Summary

Muscle is vital for metabolic health, physical strength, injury prevention, and longevity. Maintaining or building muscle through resistance training, proper nutrition (especially adequate protein), and a healthy lifestyle is crucial at every stage of life. The benefits of muscle go far beyond aesthetics—they support overall health and quality of life.

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^{Other than Muscle Loss (which is a BIG one) What are the negative short term side effects of taking these type of drugs?}

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Ozempic (Semaglutide)

Negatives and Side Effects:

• Nausea: Common, especially at the start of treatment.
• Vomiting: Can occur, often with nausea.
• Diarrhea: Frequently reported side effect.
• Constipation: Some users experience this instead of diarrhea.
• Abdominal Pain: Can range from mild to severe.
• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, especially if combined with other diabetes medications.
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can be serious.
• Kidney Issues: Worsening of kidney function, especially in those with existing kidney problems.
• Gallbladder Problems: Includes gallstones.
• Thyroid Tumors: Risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC); not recommended for those with a family history of this cancer.
• Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, or swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat.

Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Negatives and Side Effects:

• Nausea: Very common, particularly when starting the medication.
• Vomiting: Frequently reported alongside nausea.
• Diarrhea: Common gastrointestinal side effect.
• Constipation: Another possible digestive issue.
• Abdominal Pain: Can vary in intensity.
• Hypoglycemia: Especially if taken with other glucose-lowering medications.
• Pancreatitis: Serious but rare.
• Gallbladder Issues: Including gallstones.
• Kidney Problems: Potential worsening of kidney function.
• Thyroid Cancer: Risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC); avoid if family history exists.
• Injection Site Reactions: Redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site.
• Allergic Reactions: Hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

Negatives and Side Effects:

• Nausea: Very common, especially early in treatment.
• Vomiting: Often occurs with nausea.
• Diarrhea: Common gastrointestinal complaint.
• Constipation: Also frequently reported.
• Abdominal Pain: Can range from mild discomfort to severe pain.
• Hypoglycemia: Risk increases if used with other diabetes medications.
• Pancreatitis: Serious inflammation of the pancreas.
• Kidney Issues: Possible worsening of kidney function.
• Gallbladder Problems: Including the development of gallstones.
• Thyroid Tumors: Risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC); not recommended for those with a family history of this cancer.
• Injection Site Reactions: Swelling, redness, or irritation at the injection site.
• Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, or swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat.

General Notes

• Allergic Reactions: All three drugs can cause serious allergic reactions, which require immediate medical attention.
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas is a serious but rare side effect of all three medications.
• Thyroid Cancer: There's a potential risk of thyroid cancer with these medications, particularly medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
• Kidney Issues: These drugs can potentially worsen kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney problems.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are common across all three medications, particularly at the beginning of treatment.

It's essential to discuss these potential side effects with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment based on individual health conditions and risks

So those are short term side effects what about Long term side effects?

The long-term effects of drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are still being studied, but some potential concerns and risks have been identified, based on their mechanisms and clinical trials. These drugs are relatively new, so the understanding of their long-term safety is evolving. Here’s what is known so far:

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Potential Long-Term Effects and Concerns:

1. Gastrointestinal Issues:
   • Common effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation may persist or worsen over time. These drugs slow down digestion, which can lead to ongoing digestive discomfort for some users.
2. Thyroid Tumors:
   • Studies in rodents have shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists (like those in Ozempic and Wegovy) can cause thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Although it's unclear if this risk translates to humans, it's a potential long-term concern, and patients with a family history of MTC or certain thyroid cancers are often advised not to use these drugs.
3. Pancreatitis:
   • There is a possible risk of developing pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) with long-term use. Some reports have linked these medications to increased cases of pancreatitis, which can be severe and life-threatening if not treated.
4. Gallbladder Issues:
   • Long-term use of these medications, particularly Wegovy (due to its focus on weight loss), may increase the risk of gallbladder disease. Rapid weight loss, a common effect of these drugs, can lead to gallstones or other gallbladder problems.
5. Kidney Issues:
   • In rare cases, long-term use can affect kidney function. Prolonged dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea (a side effect) could lead to acute kidney injury or worsen existing kidney conditions.
6. Cardiovascular Health:
   • While some studies suggest that these drugs may reduce the risk of cardiovascular events (like heart attacks and strokes) in people with type 2 diabetes, long-term effects on heart health, particularly in people using the drugs solely for weight loss, are still being evaluated.
7. Retinopathy (Eye Issues):
   • Some users, especially those with diabetes, have reported worsening diabetic retinopathy (an eye condition) when using these drugs long-term. It's not common but is something doctors monitor in patients with pre-existing eye issues.
8. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar):
   • While these drugs help regulate blood sugar, combining them with other diabetes medications (like insulin) can increase the risk of hypoglycemia over time, which can be dangerous if not managed correctly.
9. Potential for Weight Regain:
   • For patients using Wegovy or Mounjaro for weight loss, there is concern about weight regain after discontinuing the medication. Long-term success with weight management might require continued use, raising questions about safety with prolonged use.
10. Psychological Effects:
    • Some long-term users may experience anxiety, depression, or emotional changes due to the impact on appetite and weight. More research is needed to understand these psychological effects.

Ongoing Monitoring:

Because these drugs are relatively new, long-term data is still being collected. Patients using Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro for extended periods will likely need to be regularly monitored by their healthcare providers for any emerging side effects or complications. This is especially true for conditions related to the thyroid, pancreas, and gallbladder.

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Do These Weight Loss Drugs Have Any Lawsuits?

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Yes, there are ongoing lawsuits involving Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. These legal actions primarily focus on severe gastrointestinal side effects, particularly gastroparesis (stomach paralysis), allegedly linked to these medications.

Key Points:

• Nature of Lawsuits: Patients claim that the manufacturers did not adequately warn about the risk of severe gastrointestinal issues, including gastroparesis, associated with these drugs. Some individuals have reported significant health complications, such as persistent vomiting and stomach paralysis, after using these medications.
• Time
• Manufacturers' Stance: Companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, which produce these drugs, assert that their products have been thoroughly evaluated and that side effects are generally mild and reversible. They maintain that their medications are safe when used as directed.
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• Legal Proceedings: In some cases, courts are addressing preliminary issues, such as the adequacy of drug labels in warning about potential side effects and the diagnostic criteria for conditions like gastroparesis. These early rulings could influence the progression and scope of the litigation.
• Reuters

Considerations for Patients:

• Medical Consultation: If you're using or considering these medications, discuss potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.
• Monitoring Side Effects: Be vigilant about any adverse effects while on these medications. Report any unusual or severe symptoms to your doctor promptly.
• Legal Advice: If you've experienced significant health issues that you believe are linked to these drugs, consulting with a legal professional can help you understand your rights and options.

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So with all those negatives and lawsuits what are the actual benefits of taking these drugs?

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Claimed Benefits of Taking Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro

• Improved Blood Sugar Levels: All three medications help manage and lower blood sugar levels effectively.
• Weight Loss: Each medication supports weight loss (yet doesn't support lean muscle) which is a crucial factor in managing type 2 diabetes and improving overall health. (some weight loss is muscle loss)
• Reduced Risk of Complications: By controlling blood sugar and supporting weight loss, these drugs help reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as heart disease and stroke.
• Better Quality of Life: Improved blood sugar control and weight loss contribute to a better quality of life and overall well-being.

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Why Exercise and Nutrition are Often More Effective and Safer than Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro.

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1. Holistic Health Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Improvements: Exercise and proper nutrition benefit the entire body, improving cardiovascular health, muscle strength, mental health, and more.
• Disease Prevention: Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can prevent a wide range of diseases beyond just diabetes and obesity, including heart disease, hypertension, certain cancers, and osteoporosis.

2. Fewer Side Effects

• Natural Methods: Exercise and nutrition typically do not have the side effects associated with medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. These medications can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.
• Long-term Safety: The long-term safety of exercise and healthy eating is well-established, whereas long-term effects of newer medications may still be under study.

3. Sustainable Lifestyle Changes

• Behavioral Changes: Developing healthy eating habits and incorporating regular exercise into your routine can lead to lasting lifestyle changes, which are more sustainable in the long term.
• Empowerment: Learning to manage health through diet and exercise can empower individuals to take control of their well-being without relying on medications.

4. Cost-Effectiveness

• Lower Costs: While medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro can be expensive, exercise and healthy eating can be more cost-effective. Costs associated with gym memberships, home exercise equipment, and nutritious foods can be less than ongoing medication expenses.

5. Enhanced Mental Health

• Mental Well-being: Regular physical activity is known to improve mental health by reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
• Cognitive Benefits: Healthy nutrition can improve brain function and cognitive health, reducing the risk of mental decline with age.

6. Improved Quality of Life

• Energy and Vitality: Proper nutrition and regular exercise can increase energy levels and overall vitality, leading to a better quality of life.
• Functional Fitness: Exercise enhances physical function, making daily activities easier and improving overall mobility and independence.

7. Risk of Dependency

• Avoiding Medication Dependence: Relying on medications can sometimes lead to dependency. Lifestyle changes promote self-reliance and reduce the need for medical intervention.

8. Environmental Benefits

• Sustainable Choices: A diet rich in whole, plant-based foods can have a lower environmental impact compared to medications that require extensive resources to produce and distribute.

Conclusion

While medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro can be effective for managing specific health conditions, exercise and nutrition offer a broader range of benefits with fewer risks. They support overall health, are sustainable in the long term, and empower individuals to take control of their well-being naturally. Adopting a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity is often the safest and most effective approach to maintaining good health.

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‍Are There Safer Natural Alternatives To Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro?

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There are several natural alternatives to medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro for weight loss and blood sugar management. These alternatives focus on lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and the use of specific supplements. While these methods may not provide the same rapid or dramatic effects as medications, they are generally safer and sustainable long-term solutions. Here are some natural alternatives:

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1. Dietary Adjustments

• Whole Foods Diet: Focus on a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Reducing refined sugars, processed foods, and unhealthy fats can improve blood sugar control and aid weight loss.
• Low-Carb or Ketogenic Diet: Low-carb diets (like keto) can be effective for both weight loss and blood sugar management. By reducing carbohydrate intake, your body is forced to burn fat for energy, which can also stabilize blood sugar levels.
• Fiber-Rich Foods: High-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains slow down digestion, helping to control blood sugar spikes and keep you feeling fuller for longer.
• Intermittent Fasting: Limiting eating to certain windows of time (e.g., 16:8 fasting) can help with weight loss and improve insulin sensitivity, leading to better blood sugar control.

2. Regular Exercise

• Aerobic Exercise: Activities like walking, running, swimming, or cycling can improve insulin sensitivity, helping your body regulate blood sugar more effectively. Regular exercise also burns calories, aiding in weight loss.
• Strength Training: Building muscle through weight training boosts metabolism, helps burn fat, and improves blood sugar control by increasing insulin sensitivity.
• High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Short bursts of intense exercise followed by rest periods can be an effective way to burn fat, improve fitness, and regulate blood sugar.

3. Natural Supplements

• Berberine: A plant-based supplement that has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Some studies suggest berberine may be as effective as certain medications for managing blood sugar in type 2 diabetes.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar levels. Adding it to your diet or taking it as a supplement may provide modest benefits for blood sugar control.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Taking a small amount of apple cider vinegar before meals can help reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Chromium: Chromium picolinate is a mineral that can help improve blood sugar control by enhancing insulin sensitivity. It is commonly used in managing type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance.
• Green Tea Extract: Green tea contains antioxidants like catechins, which may promote fat burning and weight loss. It also helps improve metabolic rate and may assist in blood sugar regulation.

4. Stress Management

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Stress can lead to weight gain and worsen blood sugar control. Regular meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
• Adequate Sleep: Getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night is essential for maintaining a healthy metabolism and regulating hormones that affect hunger and blood sugar levels.

5. Probiotics for Gut Health

• Probiotic Supplements: A healthy gut microbiome plays a crucial role in metabolic health. Probiotic supplements and fermented foods (like kimchi, sauerkraut, and yogurt) can improve gut health, which in turn may help with weight management and blood sugar control.
• Fermented Foods: Foods like kefir, yogurt, and kombucha contain natural probiotics that support gut health and, indirectly, metabolic health.

6. Herbs and Spices

• Turmeric: The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory properties and can improve insulin sensitivity. Adding turmeric to your diet can be a natural way to support blood sugar control.
• Fenugreek: This herb has been traditionally used to lower blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity. It can be taken as a supplement or consumed as seeds.
• Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory effects and may help with blood sugar control. Ginger tea or adding fresh ginger to meals is a simple way to incorporate this into your diet.

7. Hydration

• Drinking Water: Staying hydrated helps your body process sugar more efficiently. Drinking plenty of water can prevent dehydration and support weight loss by reducing hunger.

8. Portion Control and Mindful Eating

• Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: This can help regulate blood sugar levels throughout the day and prevent overeating. It also helps prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes.
• Mindful Eating: Paying attention to hunger cues and avoiding distractions during meals can help with portion control and prevent overeating, which is crucial for both weight loss and blood sugar management.

9. Social Support and Accountability

• Join a Weight Loss or Fitness Group: Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can help you stay on track with your goals, whether it's weight loss or managing blood sugar. Personal trainers, nutritionists, or online communities can offer guidance and accountability.

Conclusion:

Natural alternatives like improving your diet, exercise, taking supplements, and managing stress provide a more sustainable, safer way to manage weight and blood sugar levels. While they may take longer to show results compared to medications, they come without the side effects and offer long-term benefits for overall health. Consulting with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to tailor these strategies to your individual needs is always a good idea.

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Do I Recommend Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro?

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If you have made this far thanks for reading. As a fitness and nutrition coach whose expertise lies in fitness and exercise, generally focus on physical activity and healthy lifestyle habits to achieve health goals. I DO NOT  recommend medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, but may support their use under very rare certain conditions when recommended by a healthcare professional.

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Main Reasons I DO NOT Recommend These Drugs:

1. Focus on Natural Methods: I prioritize exercise and dietary changes as the primary means for achieving fitness and health goals.
2. Education and Empowerment: I emphasize teaching clients to manage their health through sustainable lifestyle changes like diet and exercise.
3. Dangerous Side Effects: Awareness of the potential side effects and these risks of these medications (short and long term) are extreme and I believe their are much safer and natural methods.
4. Client Dependency: Concerns that clients might rely on medication instead of making necessary lifestyle changes. NOTHING WILL WORK UNLESS YOU DO.

If you have read this whole thing and still choose to take one of these weight loss medications I wish you the best however I tried to present to you the pros and cons. With so many much safer options out there that will not risk muscle loss as well as all the potential current side effects I presented above.  You also have to consider all the potential unknown long term side effects that haven't even been discovered.  As I always I tell my clients I will always have your best interest in mind and I want to you think about the RISKS of taking anything and NOT just the benefits. I'll will always recommend developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes balanced healthy whole foods, consistent strength training, moderate aerobic exercise, quality water and sleep, and reducing stress over any new drug that comes along.

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Your Fitness and Nutrition Coach.

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David Modderman

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