The Science of Semaglutides, Fitness, and Weight Stigma

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GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are everywhere — from medical journals to fitness influencers. But what do they actually do, and what happens when active people use them in pursuit of performance, health, or body change?

In this episode, we unpack:

• The science behind semaglutides: how they work and what they were designed for

• What the research actually shows about weight loss, metabolism, and long-term health

• Why these drugs can complicate training, recovery, and fueling for athletes

• How weight stigma influences healthcare decisions — and who gets prescribed what

• The risks of under-fueling, muscle loss, and GI side effects in active populations

• Why we need more nuance (and more data) before calling these meds a game-changer

We also dig into the cultural conversation: how fitness spaces are responding to the rise of these drugs, and what it says about how we view bodies, performance, and health.

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