The Science Show Lab Notes: How Ozempic stops food cravings
Jun 24, 2025
Lotus Jeffs, a PhD student from Monash University, discusses the intriguing effects of Ozempic on appetite suppression. She explains how GLP-1 agonists, inspired by lizard venom, work in the brain to reduce cravings for unhealthy foods. The conversation dives into the physiological and psychological changes these drugs induce, alongside challenges in drug approvals due to potential health risks. Jeffs also highlights the surprising mental health implications, including concerns about depression and their potential for new therapeutic uses.
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Personal Success with Ozempic
- Lotus Jeffs and Belinda Smith shared personal weight loss journeys with Ozempic showing significant weight loss effects.
- Lotus lost 28 kilos initially, then about 13 kilos, illustrating Ozempic's life-changing impact on cravings.
Origin of GLP-1 Agonists
- GLP-1 agonists were derived from a lizard's venom that can go long periods without eating.
- They mimic the hormone GLP-1 in humans, which regulates insulin and glucose levels.
How GLP-1 Agonists Reduce Hunger
- GLP-1 agonists slow gastric emptying, making stomach signals of fullness last longer.
- This helps reduce hunger and prolongs the sensation of being full, aiding weight loss.