Ozempic and Its Surprising Side Effects
So, you’ve probably come across terms like “Ozempic’s butt” or “Ozempic’s fingers,” right? Well, there’s another term joining the ranks: “Ozempic breath.”
Bad breath is becoming a well-known side effect of GLP-1 medications used for diabetes and weight loss, including Ozempic. The issue arises because these drugs can slow down digestion, leading to food lingering in the stomach and fermenting. This fermentation produces hydrogen sulfide gas, which is, let’s say, not the best for your breath.
On top of that, these medications might cause dry mouth due to reduced saliva. This dry mouth can lead to ketosis, which comes with its own unique odor—think fruity-sweet or metallic. Not the most appealing combo, right?
While the bad breath might be a source of embarrassment for those using GLP-1 drugs, there’s a silver lining for businesses. Kirk Tanner, CEO of Hershey, mentioned in a recent earnings call that sales of mints and gum, particularly their Ice Breakers line, have increased—up by 8% last quarter, thanks to this new phenomenon.
Tanner noted, “The category is benefiting from functional snack tailwinds, including the adoption of GLP-1, and we are seeing strong demand for gum and mint products.” Hershey also reported a 17% increase in protein bar consumption recently.
For GLP-1 users, it’s recommended to incorporate more protein into their diets—options like chicken, fish, eggs, Greek yogurt, lentils, and beans are ideal. This helps maintain muscle mass and regulate hunger, which is crucial, especially given the changes these medications can bring.
Interestingly, the suggested amount of protein has been upped recently. Previously, the allowance was 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. Now, it’s increased to between 1.2 to 1.6 grams. For someone weighing 150 pounds, that’s around 82 to 109 grams of protein daily.
About 12% of U.S. adults are currently on GLP-1 drugs, and studies suggest a protein intake of 1.2 to 2 grams per kilogram for this group. For a person at 150 pounds, that could be anywhere from 82 to 136 grams daily, which translates to approximately 22 large eggs or 20 ounces of raw skinless chicken breast to hit that upper limit.
Aside from protein, it’s also advised for GLP-1 users to increase their fiber intake, stay well-hydrated, and engage in strength training. Drinking water can particularly help with Ozempic breath by relieving dryness, flushing out unwanted bacteria, and minimizing the effects of acid reflux on teeth.
Other tips for tackling bad breath include using antibacterial mouthwash, brushing your tongue, and chewing sugar-free gum. If you’re thinking of trying new oral hygiene methods, it could be a good idea to consult with your dentist first.
