In this episode, we’re unpacking a big and often controversial topic and it's about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic that are being used for weight loss. We’ll talk about how these medications work in the body, what the research shows about their effectiveness, and the potential risks and side effects that often go overlooked. I’ll also share how these drugs can impact someone’s relationship with food, especially for those with a history of disordered eating or body image struggles. Beyond science, we’ll take a step back to look at this conversation through a Christian lens, exploring what it means to pursue health in a way that honors God’s design for our bodies.

In this episode, you’ll hear about how…

• GLP-1 medications are being widely discussed for weight loss.

• Significant risks and side effects are associated with GLP-1s.

• Weight loss from GLP-1s is primarily due to appetite suppression.

• The use of GLP-1s can lead to disordered eating patterns.

• Long-term use of GLP-1s may result in weight regain.

• The marketing of GLP-1s resembles past pharmaceutical trends that led to public health crises.

• True wellness encompasses more than just physical appearance; it includes mental and spiritual health.

• Education and informed decision-making are crucial when considering GLP-1 medications.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to GLP-1 Medications

06:16 Understanding GLP-1 Mechanism and Effects

13:55 Risks and Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications

20:45 The Impact on Eating Disorders and Metabolism

24:32 Research Insights on Weight Regain and Long-term Use

26:54 The Reality of Weight Regain Post-Medication

30:34 The Financial Incentives Behind Weight Loss Drugs

34:37 Cultural Implications of Weight Loss Medications

37:39 A Compassionate Perspective on Weight Loss

43:13 Biblical Insights on Body Image and Food

50:27 True Wellness Beyond Weight Loss

Don’t forget to hit subscribe, rate, and review the show to help reach more people with the message of food freedom!

• Work with a Christian food freedom dietitian + use your health insurance: https://maddoxnutrition.co/
• Heal with food at your own pace: Purchase the Truth Based Nutrition Self-Paced Course https://maddoxnutrition.co/course

Sources:

Christy Harrison episodes: 

• #340: From Taking Ozempic for Weight Loss to Practicing Weight‑Inclusive Medicine, Guest: Dr. Mara Gordon
• #337: Why Ozempic Isn’t a Miracle Weight‑Loss Drug, Guest: Amanda Martinez Beck
• #323: The Hidden Risks of Weight‑Loss Drugs: Behind the GLP‑1 Hype, Guest: Ragen Chastain

GLP-1 Informed Consent: sizeinclusivemedicine.org/glp1​

GLP-1 Weight Regain Studies:

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2829779

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40507553/

https://epicresearch.org/articles/two-years-after-stopping-glp-1s-most-patients-sustain-at-least-some-weight-loss

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40691794/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589537025002950

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03978-z