Numerous weight-loss methods abound, ranging from low-calorie shakes to weight-loss injections. Today, social media serves as a fertile ground for trending ideas and weight loss fads that spread rapidly. The latest sensation dominating social media platforms is 'Oatzempic.'
Oatzempic, a clever play on the name Ozempic, is an oat-based weight-loss beverage gaining traction on TikTok. Users tout its ability to shed 40 pounds in just two months, sparking the 'Oatzempic challenge' and enticing others to join in.
However, does Oatzempic genuinely lead to rapid weight loss? We consulted with registered dietitians to gather their perspectives on this emerging TikTok trend. Continue reading to discover their insights.
What is Oatzempic?
Oatzempic has emerged as the latest weight-loss sensation on TikTok. It's a DIY concoction comprising 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of water, and the juice from half a lime. Users blend these ingredients and substitute the resulting oat drink for a meal.
In a TikTok video boasting over 1.5 million views, one user shares her initial impressions of the drink on the first day of the challenge, describing its taste as reminiscent of chalky water with lime fragments. Despite the unappealing flavor, she perseveres with the challenge, reporting a weight loss of 5.9 pounds by day six.
While it presents itself as an innovative weight-loss solution, Dalia Beydoun, MS, RD, dismisses Oatzempic as merely "oat milk marketed as a weight loss hack on TikTok."
Advocates of Oatzempic argue that it matches the weight-loss effectiveness of Ozempic but without the steep price tag. Ozempic is a prescription drug designed to reduce blood sugar levels in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. The FDA acknowledges that a decrease in appetite is a side effect of Ozempic, leading to its off-label prescription for weight loss.
Destini Moody, RD, CSSD, LD, from Top Nutrition Coaching, admits to only recently learning about Oatzempic. Although she's not keen on diet fads, Moody expresses admiration, stating, "I'm mostly just impressed with how people come up with this stuff."
How TikTok users lose weight drinking Oatzempic
TikTokers embarking on the Oatzempic challenge are reporting significant weight loss, sometimes as much as a pound per day, crediting the drink's satiating effect for curbing their appetite.
Beydoun elaborates, stating, "Oats are rich in fiber, which aids in feelings of fullness and satisfaction, potentially reducing snacking throughout the day." She further explains, "The combination of fiber and water in this beverage can promote regular bowel movements, which may contribute to weight loss, although not necessarily fat loss."
At around 150 calories per serving, based on the recipe comprising ½ cup of rolled oats and lime juice, Oatzempic qualifies as a low-calorie beverage. Similar to many other trendy diets, it facilitates weight loss by assisting in the reduction of calorie intake.
"You can achieve weight loss with Oatzempic if it's substituting for a higher-calorie meal," Beydoun concludes.
Can Oatzempic help you reach your weight goals?
Moody recognizes the potential for weight loss with Oatzempic "if used strategically." However, she advises against relying on Oatzempic for weight loss. "The components of Oatzempic don't constitute a well-rounded or sufficient meal replacement," she explains.
Apart from the fiber content derived from oats, approximately 8 grams, Oatzempic lacks significant nutrient density. Moody highlights the absence of adequate protein or essential nutrients like antioxidants found in fruits or vegetables. "Unfortunately, lime juice alone isn't sufficient," she adds.
"Continuously substituting full meals with Oatzempic in the long term can result in malnourishment alongside weight loss," warns Moody.
Even if you manage to shed 40 pounds through the Oatzempic challenge, maintaining this weight loss may prove challenging. "Healthy, sustainable weight loss typically ranges from 1 to 2 pounds per week, not 5 pounds," notes Beydoun.
Starting your day with oats is a nutritious choice. "To enhance its nutritional balance, I recommend incorporating protein sources like protein powder or Greek yogurt, healthy fats such as peanut butter, peanut butter powder, or chia seeds, and some colorful additions like blueberries, bananas, or spinach," suggests Beydoun.
Alternatively, you can cook your oats and enjoy them in a traditional bowl, which "is likely more enjoyable," Moody adds.