In December 2021, I reached a point where I felt profoundly uncomfortable in my own skin, largely due to my weight. At 200lbs, and with a height of 5’7″, it became abundantly clear that I needed to make a change. My wardrobe had dwindled to my pajamas and sweatpants, the only attire that offered any semblance of comfort.
Leaving the house had become an ordeal, and my self-esteem had plummeted to an all-time low. Simply put, I didn’t feel good about myself at all.
At 36 years old, and a mother of four, my hormonal fluctuations over the past nine years had taken a toll. Coupled with my ongoing struggle with anxiety and hypothyroidism, shedding excess weight proved to be an uphill battle.
My weight loss journey commenced with Weight Watchers, a program I had been intermittently engaged with for a significant period. What appealed to me was the array of zero-point food options, aligning well with my preferences for eggs, fruits, vegetables, black beans, rice, and similar wholesome choices.
My journey with Weight Watchers, interspersed with bouts of running, allowed me to shed around 10lbs the previous year. However, the weight rebounded in the fall, and by January of the current year, I was back at the 200lb mark – effectively, back to square one.
My research into Ozempic and semaglutide had been motivated by my hypothyroidism. Although my doctor initially ruled me out as a candidate due to the absence of diabetes, my history of gestational diabetes during my last two pregnancies had left me pre-diabetic for life.
Upon the recommendation of a friend, I visited a medical spa and consulted with a physician assistant. Here, I was introduced to Ozempic, a medication primarily used for diabetes management but known to be effective in aiding weight loss. My eligibility for semaglutide, a component of Ozempic, was established on account of my overweight status, hypothyroidism, and pre-diabetic condition.
On February 13, I embarked on my journey with semaglutide, commencing with a dosage of 0.05 mg – a day etched in my memory as it preceded Valentine’s Day. Over the ensuing weeks, I gradually increased the dosage, eventually reaching 1 mg.
Three months later, I found myself at a healthier weight, prompting my decision to discontinue semaglutide. In tandem with a balanced diet and exercise regimen, semaglutide had enabled me to shed an impressive 35lbs.
It is crucial to emphasize that semaglutide, including Ozempic, is not a magical solution for weight loss. These medications function by slowing digestion, promoting prolonged satiety, and suppressing appetite.
Personally, I had wrestled with binge eating, especially during nocturnal hours, along with insatiable food cravings. I was the type who couldn’t stop at just one piece of candy or one cookie; it was more like devouring six donuts or an entire bag of candy. Starbucks had become a daily indulgence, spiraling out of control.
The introduction of semaglutide heralded a transformation. It completely curbed my food cravings and diminished my hunger. Surprisingly, even coffee, once a daily staple, lost its appeal. Compulsive eating habits gradually receded.
Semaglutide seamlessly integrated with my health-conscious diet and running routine. Consequently, I harbored confidence that post-discontinuation, I would maintain my dietary discipline, exercise regimen, and weight.
The transformation was remarkable: I went from a size 32 jeans to 27 and saw my bra size shrink from 38DD to 34DD. The weight seemed to melt away.
However, it’s important to note that I did experience side effects attributed to semaglutide. Nausea was a prominent one, primarily when injecting in my stomach; switching to thigh injections alleviated this symptom.
I also grappled with heartburn and excessive burping. Overindulgence led to intense discomfort and the sensation of impending vomiting, acting as a deterrent against overeating.
Constipation posed another challenge, necessitating periodic laxative use, later mitigated by increased water intake.
A crucial reminder: I am not a medical professional. It is imperative to consult your healthcare provider before considering medications like semaglutide. A thorough assessment of your medical history, including laboratory evaluations, is essential to determine suitability.
In summation, my experience with semaglutide, notably Ozempic, was largely positive. It complemented my journey towards a healthier, more confident self.
Regarding my diet, I’ve adopted a routine of daily consumption. As a creature of habit, consistency suits me. Breakfast typically comprises a breakfast bar, a low-sugar yogurt smoothie, and coffee – negating the need for snacking, another area where semaglutide exerted its influence.
Lunch choices gravitate towards health-conscious options, such as salads, low-calorie ready meals, protein shakes accompanied by a few tortilla chips, and fruit.
Dinner is a conscious endeavor to minimize carb intake. Fajitas, protein pasta with tomato and ground beef sauce, sausage and peppers, or a bun-less burger with potatoes or green vegetables feature in my evening meals.
Nighttime snacks include a modest indulgence, like a couple of chocolate squares and fruit, often watermelon, a personal favorite. Alternatively, I might opt for apple and peanut butter.
Eggs have phased out of my diet, and a sensitivity to dairy has guided me towards dairy-free alternatives.
In conclusion, this regimen has not only facilitated weight loss but also reignited my confidence and restored my sense of well-being.
Gina Schweppe, a lifestyle vlogger based in California, documents her journey on her YouTube channel.
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