Why I’m Not Taking GLP-1s—Even Though the World Thinks I Should

| Wellness

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💡 TLDR

Drop everything because your feed is now a GLP-1 ad factory. Every scroll feels like a montage of before-and-after photos, dramatic weight loss claims, and people I know suddenly shrunk to fit a size-…

Drop everything because your feed is now a GLP-1 ad factory. Every scroll feels like a montage of before-and-after photos, dramatic weight loss claims, and people I know suddenly shrunk to fit a size-zero mold. It’s not just my algorithm—it’s the real world, and bodies are shrinking faster than a TikTok trend. Between 2024 and 2025, GLP-1 usage in the U.S. doubled, with 12% of adults now taking them for weight loss. And honestly? It’s a mindfuck. Especially when the person who used to preach self-love is now bragging about shrinking.

As a millennial, I grew up in a media landscape that glamorized thinness and normalized diet culture. Now, with GLP-1s making weight loss easier than ever, it’s hard not to feel like I’m backsliding into old patterns. But I’m not taking the meds—not because I’m sanctimonious or think it’s cheating, but because I’m worried about the side effects. For someone with PCOS, GLP-1s are supposed to be a game-changer. My BMI is 33, and I know the stats: anything above 30 is labeled “obese.” But BMI is a flawed metric, and I’m not about to let a number dictate my health.

The drugs work by hijacking your gut-brain signals, making you feel full longer and dialing down cravings. Studies show people on tirzepatide (Zepbound) lost 15–20% of their weight in 72 weeks—like 40 pounds off a 200-pound body. But here’s the catch: these meds aren’t just about weight. They’re linked to muscle loss, anhedonia (loss of pleasure), and GI issues. I’ve seen Reddit threads and Vox articles where people talk about feeling weak, losing interest in life, and dealing with nausea. And for someone with a history of Crohn’s, that’s not a vibe.

I’ve found a different path. Instead of drastic diets, I focus on fueling my body with protein, tracking macros, and lifting weights. I’ve lost 15 pounds, gained muscle, and finally enjoy eating without guilt. My mental health is non-negotiable—I take meds for depression and anxiety, and I don’t want to risk messing with that. Plus, I’m not sure I want to trade my joy for a smaller body.

💫 So, are you going to follow the crowd or stick to your own path.

So, are you going to follow the crowd or stick to your own path?

KEY POINTS: 1. PCOS makes weight loss tough, but GLP-1s might not be the answer for everyone—muscle loss and mental health risks are real. 2. Rapid weight loss from GLP-1s can lead to sarcopenia, which is basically aging-related muscle loss in your 30s. 3. Mental health is a big factor—GLP-1s could affect pleasure and interact with your meds, so always consult a doctor.

CLOSE: So, are you going to follow the crowd or stick to your own path?

❓ People Also Ask

Are GLP-1s effective for weight loss?

GLP-1s can aid weight loss by reducing appetite and slowing digestion. However, results vary, and side effects like nausea are common. They’re not a magic solution for everyone.

What are common side effects of GLP-1s?

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Some people also experience fatigue, headaches, and difficulty absorbing nutrients. Serious side effects are rare but possible.


💬 What do you think? Let us know in the comments! 👇

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