An Expert’s Review on GLP-1 Probiotics, Supplements, & Powders
Ozempic has gained significant attention in the health community, with many individuals praising the weight loss benefits of the drug. Recently, there has been a surge in Ozempic alternatives, such as Wegovy and Oatzempic, emerging in the market.
One of the trending copycat treatments on TikTok is known as “Nature’s Ozempic,” which includes supplements and natural substances claiming to replicate the effects of the popular drug. However, the question remains: are these alternatives truly healthy and safe? To address this trend, we turned to cardiologist and MyFitnessPal Scientific Advisor, Danielle Belardo, MD.
What is “Nature’s Ozempic”?
The primary supplement being promoted as “Nature’s Ozempic” or a natural alternative to Ozempic is berberine. This plant compound is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine and has been linked to potential benefits such as lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as improving insulin resistance.
Do natural alternatives to Ozempic work?
Contrary to the claims circulating on social media, Dr. Belardo emphasizes that there is limited evidence supporting the effectiveness of berberine for weight loss. Unlike FDA-approved GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, which have undergone extensive testing in large-scale trials, berberine lacks rigorous scientific validation. Small-scale studies on berberine have failed to demonstrate significant results in terms of weight loss or glucose control.
“There is no solid data proving that berberine can deliver the same level of weight loss or glucose control as FDA-approved GLP-1 medications,” explains Dr. Belardo.
Dr. Belardo warns against equating berberine with Ozempic, as it could be scientifically inaccurate and potentially harmful for individuals seeking unverified treatments.
Moreover, the lack of FDA regulation for supplements like berberine raises concerns about the consistency and quality of these products. Dr. Belardo highlights the variability in purity and active ingredient concentration across different supplement brands.
How to choose (and use) a natural weight loss alternative
Dr. Belardo strongly advises against relying on supplements for weight loss. She emphasizes that no supplement, including those marketed for weight loss, has been proven to match the effectiveness and safety of evidence-based strategies endorsed by healthcare professionals.
MyFitnessPal is a top-rated weight loss and fitness app, assisting nearly 1 million users in achieving their nutrition and fitness objectives annually.
Instead of turning to supplements, Dr. Belardo recommends consulting with a trusted healthcare provider, such as a primary care physician or registered dietitian. These professionals can create a personalized, evidence-based weight management plan tailored to your specific health needs.
“By combining a balanced diet with regular physical activity, a sustainable weight management plan can be developed, offering a safer and more effective approach,” Dr. Belardo concludes.
