The Dangers of “Budget Ozempic”
Discover the Shocking Trend Laxatives, the So-Called 'Budget Ozempic,' Used for Weight Loss. But Beware! Experts Warn of Dangers and Short-Lived Results.
Taking laxatives as a budget weight loss alternative to Ozempic is not only dangerous but also ineffective in the long run.
Image source: Iuliia Mikhalitskaia
Weight-loss drug Ozempic is expensive and hard to come by, leading desperate individuals to search for alternatives. However, the so-called “Budget Ozempic” that people are turning to is nothing more than laxatives. Not only are laxatives ineffective for sustained weight loss, but they are also unsafe. Let’s take a closer look at this phenomenon and explore safer and more effective ways to achieve your weight loss goals.
The Scarcity of Ozempic and the Rise of Laxatives
Ozempic, a brand name for the medication semaglutide, has become a sought-after weight loss drug. Unfortunately, it is currently facing a global shortage, making it difficult to obtain. This scarcity has led some individuals, particularly teenagers with eating disorders, to resort to abusing laxatives as a cheaper over-the-counter alternative.
The Truth about “Budget Ozempic”
Contrary to popular belief, laxatives have no actual weight loss effect, aside from causing dehydration. Chemically, they are not similar to semaglutide. Laxatives contain a chemical called polymer polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350), which works by drawing water out of the intestines through osmosis. However, since the body cannot digest PEG 3350, it simply removes the water when excreted. On the other hand, weight loss drugs like semaglutide mimic hormones in our body that induce a feeling of fullness after eating and slow down digestion.
In other words, the “weight loss” experienced with laxatives is merely water loss due to dehydration. This effect is short-lived, as the body will retain more water upon hydration, nullifying any weight loss achieved.
The Dangers of Regular Laxative Use
Using laxatives regularly exposes individuals to several dangers. PEG 3350 not only dehydrates the body but also increases the concentration of electrolytes in the blood. This can lead to fatigue, seizures, confusion, and even coma in extreme cases. Other common side effects include anal irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, cramps, pain, and abdominal swelling. Moreover, withdrawal symptoms such as constipation, bloating, weight gain, and fluid retention can occur when laxative use is abruptly stopped.
A Safer Approach to Weight Loss
Rather than resorting to laxatives or risky weight loss methods, there are much safer and more effective ways to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is important to focus on healthy eating patterns, regular exercise, and stress management. Instead of aiming for drastic weight loss, a gradual reduction of one to two pounds per week is recommended.
Let’s prioritize our health and well-being by choosing sustainable and safe weight loss methods. Remember, there are no shortcuts on the journey to a healthier you!
