Research reveals that oats exhibit comparable effects to Ozempic in a recent study.
In the realm of weight loss, a new trend has emerged that compares the effects of a popular medication, Ozempic, to a humble pantry staple - oats. While oats may not chemically replicate the mechanisms of Ozempic, they offer a natural approach to appetite suppression and weight management.
Emily Leeming, a registered dietitian, research fellow at King's College London, author, and speaker, has shed light on this topic. Leeming, who holds a BSc in Nutrition, MSc in Nutrition and Dietetics, and a PhD in the impact of diet on the gut microbiome, emphasises the potential benefits of oats in a balanced diet.
Oats, rich in beta-glucan, a soluble fibre, can significantly aid weight loss. This fibre slows digestion, prolonging feelings of fullness and reducing hunger by up to 15%. It also helps control blood sugar levels and promote fat oxidation, making oats a valuable ally in weight management.
The similarities between oats and Ozempic lie in their ability to stimulate the release of GLP-1, a digestive hormone that signals fullness to the brain. However, Ozempic, a brand name for semaglutide, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that directly impacts hormones regulating appetite, slowing gastric emptying, and lowering hunger more powerfully than dietary fibre alone.
For those who aren't oat fans, Leeming recommends alternatives such as nuts, seeds, rye bread, pumpernickel bread, beans, and avocado. These foods also contain fibre and can help manage appetite and support weight loss.
A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that beta-glucan, the fibre in oats, acts on the same biochemical pathway as Ozempic. Mice fed high-fat, high-sugar diets supplemented with 10% beta-glucan showed significantly less weight gain, reduced fat mass, higher retention of lean mass, improved insulin sensitivity, and better blood sugar levels.
However, it's important to note that oats should be consumed in controlled portions and without added sugars to maximise their weight loss benefits. Combining oats with protein and healthy fats can further enhance their appetite-suppressing effects. Regular exercise also amplifies calorie burn and helps maintain muscle mass during weight loss.
The 'Oatzempic' trend, which involves blending oats into a drink, has raised concerns among dietitians. Some TikTokers advocate for it as a meal replacement, but this approach is not recommended. Consuming oats as porridge or muesli is a more effective way of staying full.
In conclusion, while oats can support weight loss by naturally increasing fullness and stabilizing blood sugar, similar to some appetite-suppressing effects of Ozempic, they are not a pharmacological substitute. For individuals seeking natural dietary alternatives, oats are a valuable component, especially when integrated into a balanced diet with other healthy habits.
Ozempic, originally developed to treat Type 2 diabetes, has gained fame for its weight loss benefits and is now prescribed worldwide for treating Type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss. While the 'Oatzempic' trend offers a creative approach to weight management, it's essential to approach it with caution and maintain a balanced diet and lifestyle.
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- Emily Leeming, a registered dietitian and research fellow at King's College London, advocates for the potential benefits of oats, rich in soluble fiber beta-glucan, in a balanced diet for weight loss.
- Science and research indicate that oats can help manage appetite, slow digestion, and promote fat oxidation, making them a valuable ally in health and wellness, and fitness and exercise.
- In the field of medical-conditions, particularly weight management, oats show similarities to Ozempic, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, in their ability to stimulate the release of GLP-1, a hormone that signals fullness.
- A recent study in the Journal of Nutrition found that beta-glucan, the fiber in oats, acts on the same biochemical pathway as Ozempic, potentially offering a natural, lifestyle-oriented approach to managing weight and improving health.
- To maximize the benefits of oats for weight loss, Leeming suggests controlling portions, avoiding added sugars, and combining oats with protein and healthy fats, while emphasizing the importance of regular exercise and a balanced diet and lifestyle for optimal health-and-wellness outcomes.
