Novo Nordisk Cuts Prices for Wegovy and Ozempic

Dr. Mahsa Tehrani, a board-certified rheumatologist, discussed Novo Nordisk’s decision to significantly lower the U.S. prices for its diabetes and weight-loss drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy, on ‘America Reports.’

A new weight-loss trend involves drinking a mixture of warm water and unflavored gelatin before meals. Promoted by social media influencers as an affordable way to suppress appetite, the practice is said to have effects comparable to GLP-1 weight-loss drugs. However, experts advise caution.

Why Gelatin Works

New Jersey dietitian Erin Palinski-Wade explains the biological reason behind this practice’s effectiveness. Once gelatins mix with the stomach’s acidic environment, they form a thick, semi-gelled mixture. This increases the stomach’s volume and thickness, sending signals to the brain indicating fullness.

Additionally, gelatin’s protein content triggers a gut hormone that slows down eating. This results in a temporary feeling of fullness, potentially helping to reduce calorie consumption during meals.

Comparing Gelatin to Medications

While some call this hack “natural Ozempic,” Palinski-Wade emphasizes that this is a gross exaggeration. Comparing gelatin to prescription semaglutide is like equating a garden hose to a fire hydrant. The underlying principle may be similar, but the impact and strength differ greatly.

Gelatin supports a brief hormone response to food but does not mimic prescription medications at the receptor level. It doesn’t have fat-burning properties either; it merely fills the stomach to reduce calorie intake.

Nutritional Considerations

Reliance on gelatin as a dietary staple carries nutritional risks. Though it is high in protein, it lacks essential amino acid tryptophan, making it an incomplete protein source. Using it as a meal replacement can lead to significant amino acid deficiencies, potentially impacting muscle health. It should be considered only as a pre-meal appetite suppressant.

Guidelines for Use

For those considering this method, Palinski-Wade suggests mixing 1 tablespoon of plain, unflavored gelatin powder with hot water, diluting it with room temperature water or herbal tea, and consuming it 15 to 30 minutes before one daily meal. Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or dealing with kidney disease or animal allergies should seek medical advice beforehand.

In conclusion, while gelatin offers a cost-effective, low-risk approach to portion control, it is not a miracle solution for weight loss.