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Is Ozempic® a cure or just a band-aid?

Is Ozempic® a cure or just a band-aid?

Ozempic ®, a medication often prescribed for managing Type 2 diabetes, has gained attention for its ability to lower blood sugar levels and aid in weight loss. However, it’s important to understand that while Ozempic® can help manage the symptoms of diabetes, it does not reverse the condition.

The reason it falls short of reversing diabetes lies in the fact that it doesn’t address the root cause of the disease or fix what I call the "four tires" of health, which are essential for true recovery. Additionally, Ozempic® comes with a range of side effects that can negatively impact long-term health.

Why Ozempic® Doesn't Reverse Diabetes

To reverse diabetes, it’s crucial to address the underlying issues that contribute to the condition, not just the symptoms. Ozempic® helps to lower blood sugar by stimulating insulin production and reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver. While this helps in the short term, it doesn’t solve the root problem of insulin resistance or restore proper function to the pancreas or other key systems.

I often refer to the four tires of health: the liver, pancreas, gut, and adrenal glands. Each of these organs plays a vital role in blood sugar regulation and overall metabolic health. If just one tire is flat, the body cannot function optimally.

Ozempic® doesn’t fix these "flat tires"—it doesn’t improve liver function, heal the gut, restore pancreas health, or manage adrenal imbalances. Instead, it merely alleviates symptoms temporarily, allowing the underlying causes of diabetes to continue unchecked.

In contrast, to truly reverse diabetes, we need to address insulin resistance, reduce chronic inflammation, repair gut health, and balance hormones. This involves a holistic approach that includes diet, supplements, exercise, and lifestyle modifications that target the root causes of the disease.

The Dangers of Relying on Ozempic®

Relying on Ozempic® for diabetes management without addressing the root cause can lead to a dependency on the medication. While it may lower blood sugar levels, it doesn't improve insulin sensitivity or correct metabolic dysfunction. This can result in a cycle of needing more medication over time, without ever achieving true metabolic health.

Additionally, Ozempic® comes with a range of side effects that can harm your health in the long run. Some of the most common side effects include:

  1. Nausea: Many people experience persistent nausea, especially in the initial stages of taking Ozempic®. This can lead to a decreased appetite, which may help with weight loss but can also cause malnutrition if not properly managed.
  2. Vomiting: Along with nausea, vomiting is another common side effect that can make it difficult to maintain a balanced diet and get the nutrients your body needs to manage diabetes effectively.
  3. Diarrhea: Ozempic® can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, including diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and a loss of essential nutrients.
  4. Stomach pain: Abdominal discomfort is a frequent complaint, often leading to a reduction in food intake, which can further imbalance blood sugar levels.
  5. Constipation: On the opposite end, some people experience constipation, which can negatively impact gut health—a key "tire" in maintaining overall wellness.
  6. Hypoglycemia: Although Ozempic® is meant to lower blood sugar, there’s a risk of it causing blood sugar to drop too low, leading to hypoglycemia, which can be dangerous if not managed properly.

Conclusion

While Ozempic® can offer short-term relief from the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes, it is not a cure despite the commercials and marketing. It doesn’t address the root cause of the disease, nor does it fix the critical organs and glands—liver, pancreas, gut, and adrenals—that need to function optimally for true reversal to occur. Additionally, the side effects can create added health challenges, making it important to seek a holistic approach to diabetes.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or institutions.

Dr. Jonathan Spages

About Dr. Jonathan Spages

Dr. Jonathan Spages, Author, Functional Medicine for Type II Diabetics

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