Introduction:

In a recent episode of my podcast, Shoulders Down, I had the opportunity to sit down with one of my closest friends, Jamie, to discuss her lived experience with Ozempic, an injectable weight-loss drug that has gained significant attention since its introduction to the market. 

The Health At Every Size (HAES) Framework:

As a practitioner rooted in the Health At Every Size (HAES) framework, I want to emphasize that my approach to counseling is weight-neutral. The HAES philosophy is based on current research indicating that weight is not a reliable indicator of overall health. While I do not advocate for intentional weight loss, recognizing its often unsustainable nature, I also want to make it clear that I do not judge or shame individuals who desire it.

Body Autonomy

Living in a society that often unfairly values smaller bodies over larger ones, I acknowledge the impact of weight stigma and cultural oppression on individuals in larger bodies. As a non-diet dietitian, I believe all people deserve body autonomy and I recognize that the desire for intentional weight loss is a personal choice influenced by various factors.

Addressing Thin Privilege:

As a person who holds unearned thin privilege, I don’t have lived-experience navigating the world in a fat* body and therefore, I’ll never fully know the pain of systemic weight stigma. I believe every human deserves the right to body autonomy— making choices for their body based on what feels right. I also believe that as a non-diet dietitian, it is my responsibility to help folks make decisions with informed-consent.

Informed Consent and Responsibility:

I believe in providing individuals with the necessary tools for informed consent. This means offering evidence-based education on pursuits of intentional weight loss, whether through dieting, medications, or surgery. It also means encouraging individuals to reflect on their own lived experiences regarding past attempts to manipulate their body size.

Jamie’s Experience with Ozempic:

In the podcast episode, Jamie shares her firsthand experience with Ozempic, shedding light on the personal journey of using this weight loss drug. I also provide an overview of the facts surrounding Ozempic, offering evidence-based information to empower individuals considering this option.

Conclusion:

For those contemplating Ozempic for weight loss, I hope the combination of evidence-based facts and Jamie’s story will provide valuable insights. In the spirit of body autonomy and informed consent, I encourage you to make decisions about your body based on a thorough understanding of the facts and your own lived experiences.

Note: The term “fat” is used in a reclaimed way, as a neutral and objective descriptor of body size.

For further insights on Ozempic and the broader context of weight-loss drugs, I recommend exploring the work of Ragen Chastin, particularly her blog post on the history of weight-loss drugs and the consequences faced by companies like Novo Nordisk for deceptive marketing tactics.