The Science of Semaglutides, Fitness, and Weight Stigma

Listen to this episode from Your Diet Sucks on Spotify. Support us on Patreon!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 forWhat the research actually shows about weight loss, metabolism, and long-term healthWhy these drugs can complicate training, recovery, and fueling for athletesHow weight stigma influences healthcare decisions — and who gets prescribed whatThe risks of under-fueling, muscle loss, and GI side effects in active populationsWhy we need more nuance (and more data) before calling these meds a game-changerWe 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.Support the ShowYour support helps us keep Your Diet Sucks research-driven, ad-light, and accountable to our listeners — not the algorithm.Join our Patreon: patreon.com/yourdietsucksYou’ll get bonus episodes, fueling guides (like our sweat test deep dive), recipes (including a purple protein smoothie), and one-on-one Q&A access.Skratch LabsScience-backed hydration and fueling, made from ingredients you can pronounce. We use the Super High-Carb Sport Drink Mix to get carbs and fluids dialed on long runs — especially when it’s hot out.Get 20% off your first order at skratchlabs.com with code YOURDIETSUCKS20.Microcosm CoachingCoaching that prioritizes effort, context, and consistency. Whether you're running your first 5K or racing ultras, Microcosm offers fully individualized, human-first training.Learn more at www.microcosm-coaching.com