Menopause and Your Mindset

Ozempic (semaglutide) has gained significant attention in recent years, primarily for its effectiveness in treating type 2 diabetes and its potential for weight loss. The medication, which belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, works by mimicking a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. While it has been hailed as a breakthrough for many, it's important to understand that, like all medications, Ozempic comes with its own set of risks and potential side effects. 1. Gastrointestinal Issues One of the most common and well-known side effects of Ozempic is gastrointestinal discomfort. Many users experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation when starting the medication. For some, these symptoms can be severe enough to disrupt daily activities. The reason for this is that the medication slows down the movement of food through the digestive system, which can lead to these uncomfortable symptoms. In most cases, these side effects are temporary and may diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication. However, for some people, these issues can persist, making it necessary to reconsider whether Ozempic is the right treatment option. 2. Risk of Pancreatitis Ozempic, like other GLP-1 receptor agonists, has been associated with a small but serious risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Symptoms of pancreatitis include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. If left untreated, pancreatitis can be life-threatening. While the risk is relatively low, patients who have a history of pancreatitis or other pancreatic issues may need to avoid Ozempic or be closely monitored while using it. If you experience any of the symptoms of pancreatitis while on Ozempic, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. 3. Kidney Concerns There have been reports linking the use of Ozempic to potential kidney issues, particularly in individuals who already have pre-existing kidney problems. The medication may exacerbate kidney function decline in some patients, leading to dehydration, kidney failure, or other related complications. Signs of kidney problems include swelling in the feet or ankles, fatigue, and changes in urination patterns. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor about adjusting your treatment plan or exploring alternative options. 6. Allergic Reactions Like any medication, Ozempic can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or tightness in the chest. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to stop using Ozempic and seek immediate medical attention. 7. Potential for Misuse for Weight Loss While Ozempic has been proven to help with weight loss, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes, it is important to remember that it is not FDA-approved solely for weight loss in individuals without diabetes. Some people may misuse Ozempic as a weight loss drug, which could lead to unintended health consequences, particularly if they do not have the necessary medical oversight. Taking Ozempic for weight loss without proper supervision can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and other adverse effects that could harm your health in the long run. Conclusion: Weighing the Benefits Against the Risks Ozempic has proven to be a highly effective medication for managing type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, promoting weight loss. However, it is essential to recognize the potential risks and side effects associated with the drug. If you are considering Ozempic for weight loss, remember that being healthy and thriving goes beyond your scale. Even if you’re already taking Ozempic and losing weight, you still need to live an active lifestyle. Although it is important to be at a healthy weight, it is also important to exercise for strong muscles, bones, and joints and for improved stamina. Personally, I think injecting a foreign substance into an otherwise healthy body should always be avoided when possible. If you need help getting started on an active lifestyle, Axio is here to help!

I’ve recently heard a lot of discussions about an anti-inflammatory diet. Although, like many personal trainers and health professionals, I am not a fan of the word “diet”, I am a fan of people being more mindful of the things they are eating and how it is affecting their bodies. An anti-inflammatory diet is simply a diet that focuses on avoiding foods that inflame the body such as processed foods, refined carbohydrates, trans fat and sugar. Naturally, by avoiding those types of food choices, you should be replacing them with plenty of fruit, vegetables, healthy fats and whole grains. In my experience, people make better food choices when they focus on how certain foods affect them, rather than how they taste. Focusing on whether your meal could be increasing or decreasing the inflammation in your body is a really great place to start. Or if you have other health goals, research and consider the foods you should be eating to support them. As always, you should consult a doctor or dietitian regarding a proper nutrition plan for you. At Axio Fitness we provide the personal accountability you need to achieve your fitness and nutrition goals.

Although I own several Axio Fitness locations, I still frequent the local gym for a workout. Not because I don’t love my business, but because I usually like to work out before I start my workday, and our studios stay busy in the early morning hours. Since I would never take a private training room from a client, I sometimes go to a gym. Last week I was working out and observing two young ladies who had clearly agreed to meet there and exercise together. As I watched them decide what to do for their workout, it became very clear very quickly they had no idea what they were doing. I’m not saying this to sound judgmental. I felt bad and wanted to help them because they were completely wasting their time doing an easy, unbalanced workout. I began thinking about how these two young gals have probably had a cell phone most of their life with access to endless websites, YouTube videos, and now even AI to help them learn how to workout properly. Even with all this information, they needed help. It was just validation that personal trainers are still needed in the digital age of endless information. Getting the right information for working out is something that takes time to learn and understand and really doesn’t interest most people. Along with that, a personal trainer can safely challenge their clients in ways that most will not challenge themselves. I think our information age has allowed us to improve as personal trainers and I’m very thankful for that. But it will never replace the education, accountability, motivation and personal support so many people need. Only personal trainers can do that! If you need help getting started on a proper exercise routine, please call Axio Fitness!