#1 Weight Loss Doctor: The Truth About Obesity, Ozempic, Dieting, & How to Feel Better Now

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Apr 17, 2025

Join Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, a triple board certified endocrinologist, as she dives into the complexities of obesity and weight loss treatments. They discuss the truth about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, including their effects on appetite and cravings. Dr. Salas-Whalen emphasizes that obesity isn't a personal failure and explains the five causes of weight gain, many of which are beyond individual control. She also shares her personal experiences with weight management during perimenopause, offering insights for women navigating similar challenges.

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INSIGHT

Obesity as a Disease

Obesity is a disease, not a personal failing, as it increases mortality risk.
It raises the risk of over 15 types of cancer, including breast cancer, more than alcohol or genetics.

INSIGHT

Five Factors of Weight Gain

Weight gain has five causes: lifestyle, genetics, hormones, aging, and environment.
Individuals primarily control only lifestyle choices, while other factors are less manageable.

ANECDOTE

GLP-1 Origin

The first GLP-1 drug was derived from the venom of the Gila monster lizard.
The lizard's venom causes pancreatitis, which led researchers to study its impact on the pancreas.

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This episode is a must-listen if you or someone you love has ever struggled with weight.

Today, Mel sits down with world-renowned, triple board certified endocrinologist and obesity specialist, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, to explain the medical truth behind your metabolism, weight loss, and the most talked-about medications on the planet: GLP-1s like Ozempic and Wegovy. Today, she’s breaking down exactly how these medications work, who they’re for, and the critical mistakes people are making when using them without medical supervision.

If you're confused about these drugs, worried about the side effects, or curious if they could help you or someone you love—this episode will answer every question you've been too afraid to ask.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

-The 5 real causes of weight gain—and why only one is in your control

-Why obesity is not your fault (and how blaming yourself is holding you back)

-What GLP-1 medications like Ozempic actually do in your body

-The #1 risk no one is talking about when taking these drugs

-Why these medications can change your brain, your cravings, and your relationship with food

-How to avoid “Ozempic face,” hair loss, and muscle loss while on these drugs

-How to know if you’re a good candidate—and the red flags to watch out for

You’ll also hear Dr. Salas-Whalen’s personal story of using the medication herself after hitting perimenopause—and what she wants every woman to know about managing weight in midlife.

This episode is your science-backed, shame-free guide to understanding GLP-1s, your metabolism, and what real help looks like.

If you or someone you love is struggling with weight, send them this episode. It could change their life.

For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page.

If you liked this episode, and want more evidence-based tools for a healthier life, listen to this next: The Body Reset: How Women Should Eat & Exercise for Health, Fat Loss, & Energy

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