Kareena Kapoor’s nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar shares the benefits of exercise amid Ozempic’s approval: "If you don't want a shrunken face…”

Rujuta Diwekar said: “If you want an effective way to eat correctly, if you want a sculpted face and not a shrunken one, if you want bones that are stronger and a brain that is sharper, well, you need to look at exercise with new eyes" (Image: Pexels)

Kareena Kapoor’s nutritionist, Rujuta Diwekar, often shares words of wisdom on Instagram, and her latest video is no different. She took to her social media account to list the benefits of exercising and its positive impact on the body. Interestingly, she drew a comparison between a shrunken face, one of the side effects of Ozempic, and a sculpted face, the result of regular workouts.

Rujuta started by sharing how exercising helps reduce hunger pangs and eliminates junk food cravings. “Exercise reduces the food noise. So every time you exercise, what it actually does for you is that it has an appetite-suppressing effect. You no longer feel like ordering food from outside. You no longer crave chips, cola, cookies, pizzas in the middle of the night. You no longer want to stuff yourself to feel good about yourself.”

The celebrity nutritionist also pointed out that working out for just 150 minutes a week (equivalent to half an hour every day or an hour every other day) can help raise GLP-1 levels, which is “basically the gut hormone that helps you reduce your blood sugar, reduce appetite, improve satiety and all of that.”

Also read | Ozempic to launch in India markets soon: How it works and is it safe for diabetes and weight loss

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A post shared by Rujuta Diwekar (@rujuta.diwekar)

Rujuta then referred to an article discussing the “Ozempic face,” which occurs due to rapid weight loss caused by the drug. It can lead to sunken eyes, sagging skin, thin lips, and wrinkles. She added, “If you want an effective way to eat correctly, if you want a sculpted face and not a shrunken one, if you want bones that are stronger and a brain that is sharper, well, you need to look at exercise with new eyes.”

Also read | Ozempic weight loss might cost you muscle strength, says new study

While Rujuta has emphasised the importance of working out in the video, she has also often spoken about enjoying local foods to derive maximum health benefits. For her, the festive season is a time to dig into traditional dishes guilt-free. In another video, she listed four Navratri foods packed with nutrition, including rajgira, cashews, bananas, and legumes.

FAQs on Ozempic and Weight Loss

1. What is Ozempic and how does it aid in weight loss?

Ozempic is a medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. It aids in weight loss by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, reducing appetite, and improving satiety.

2. What are some common side effects of using Ozempic for weight loss?

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Rapid weight loss can also cause a “shrunken face” with sunken eyes and sagging skin.

3. How does exercise compare to using Ozempic for weight loss?

Exercise not only helps in weight loss but also reduces hunger pangs and junk food cravings. It promotes a sculpted face and enhances muscle strength, unlike the potential muscle loss and “Ozempic face” caused by the drug.

4. How much exercise is recommended for weight loss benefits similar to Ozempic?

Aiming for 150 minutes of exercise per week, such as 30 minutes daily or an hour every other day, can help improve GLP-1 levels, which reduces blood sugar and appetite.

5. Can I eat traditional foods while trying to lose weight with Ozempic or exercise?

Yes, enjoying local and traditional foods can be part of a healthy diet. Focus on balanced meals rich in nutrients, like those suggested by nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar during festivals.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.