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Dieticians discuss the viral TikTok 'Oatzempic' weight-loss hack

April 5, 2024

Despite some TikTokers claiming that they've lost up to 40 pounds in two months with the oat-based smoothie known as "Oatzempic," dietitians caution that not only is rapid weight-loss an unhealthy goal, it's also not sustainable.

The meal replacement "Oatzempic" is a simple blended drink with ½ cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of water, a dash of cinnamon and a squeeze of lime juice. The "Oatzempic" moniker is a playful take on the word "oats" and "Ozempic," the popular diabetes medication that regulates blood sugar and curbs appetite, resulting in weight loss.

People on TikTok are drinking #oatzempic to lose weight for their wedding or get in shape for the summer.

Why might it work?

"Oatzempic" shakes for breakfast may result in weight loss in the short-term, according to some dietitians, simply due to calorie deficit. Oats are relatively low in calories—with only 140 calories for an "oatzempic" shake—compared to whatever breakfast meal individuals were eating before.

Research also suggests that the beta-glucan fiber in oats may also positively impact hormones that regulate hunger and appetite, resulting in feeling fuller longer and eating less at subsequent meals.

Finally, nutritional experts say that the motivational boost of a placebo effect also cannot be ruled out.

What's a better option?

While the "Oatzempic" challenge has apparently worked for some, dietitians and the CDC note that a slow weight loss of 1 to 2 pounds per week is a more sustainable weight-loss goal. Although weight loss varies by individual, losing about 5 pounds per month through a combination of small diet and exercise changes is a healthier goal.

Bottomline: Dietitians recommend that individuals forego the "Oatzempic" shake and instead eat regular oatmeal, which has been linked to lower levels of cholesterol, and try other easy-to-prepare fiber-rich breakfast ideas.

Sources:

Shultz, Cara Lynn. (2024, April 1). People. TikTokers Claim Viral 'Oatzempic' Drink Helped Them Drop 40 Lbs. — Here's What an Expert Says. https://people.com/oatzempic-40-lbs-2-months-breakfast-oats-lime-tiktok-8623008

Rizzo, Natalie. (2024, April 3). Today. What is oatzempic? A dietician breaks down the viral weight loss trend. https://www.today.com/health/diet-fitness/oatzempic-weight-loss-rcna146219