Journey to Extraordinary ~ Your Health, Your Odyssey: A Balanced Perspective on Semaglutide and Weightloss Medication

In today’s world, where quick fixes are more accessible than ever, it’s time to have an honest conversation about a sensitive health topic: weight loss medications like semaglutide. Recently, a friend confided in me saying, “I don’t even want to tell you this because you’ll get mad at me, but I am taking semaglutide to shed those last stubborn pounds during menopause.”

First, let me make this clear: This is YOUR journey and it is not my place to judge any of it. This is your Odyssey and only you can chart the course that feels right for your health and happiness. I understand the desire to shed those pounds more than most – I spend countless hours inside the gym working hard, and menopause weight gain is still a reality I face. It sucks. I get it. Taking action to feel better in your own skin isn’t inherently wrong. However, before embracing this path let’s look at the pros and cons and how to take the best care of your body (and mind) for the best future in your Odyssey.

The Cost of Rapid Weight Loss with Medication: What Your Body Endures

Weight loss isn’t just a numbers game – it’s a conversation your body is having with itself. When you lose weight quickly, your body can interpret it as a survival threat. The result? Your body diverts vital nutrients away from areas like your skin and hair to support essential functions. This is why rapid weight loss often leaves people with thinning, crepey skin and hair falling out. 

Strength Over Skinny: Rethinking the Goal

Our culture often glorifies being “tiny”, but we must ask ourselves what is the reason and what is the cost? Far too many women in their 50s and 60s are aiming for thinness at the expense of strength, leading to severe health consequences. A lack of muscle mass increases the risk of osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s and other life-threatening conditions. For instance, studies show that women over 60 who fall and break a hip face a staggering 15-30% chance of dying within the next year. However, women with greater muscle mass have a significantly reduced risk of falls, fractures, and chronic diseases like cancer, metabolic disorders, cognitive decline and heart disease. Strength isn’t just a fitness goal to look amazing – it’s the foundation of long-term health and independence. 

The Hard Truth: Pills Aren’t the Whole Solution

If you are considering or already taking weight loss medications such as semaglutide, it’s crucial to understand that these are tools, not magical solutions. The real, lasting results require YOUR effort. To truly thrive as you age, you must prioritize strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and proper nutrition.

Keep in mind – this isn’t about punishment or restriction – it’s about empowerment. Building strength means you will not only look good but also have the energy and vitality to live fully, enjoying life’s adventures. After all, what’s the point of being slim if your body isn’t capable of the joy and freedom it deserves?

A Lesson From Odysseus: The Value of the Journey

Homer’s Odyssey teaches us that life’s challenges – the storms, monsters and setbacks we all experience – are what shape us into the person we are. Odysseus didn’t take shortcuts; he endured trials that forged his strength, resilience and wisdom. Your health journey is no different. Each workout, each healthy meal, and each step toward balance is a victory that builds your inner hero.

Medications like semaglutides may feel like a shortcut or a way to skip the hard part, but true health and vitality require you to engage fully with the process. It’s the work you put in – physically, mentally, and emotionally – that leads to lasting change.

Avoiding a Dystopian Future

Remember the movie Wall-E, where humans became so complacent they could no longer walk or take care of themselves? Or the Hunger Games, where indulgences such as drinking something that forces you to vomit so that you could continue to eat and enjoy more amazing food reached the point of absurdity? We are currently at a crossroads. As a society, we must decide if we are willing to prioritize instant gratification over long-term health and strength.



The Bottom Line: Choose Empowerment

If you want some help on YOUR Journey to Extraordinary, give us a call here at CrossFit Odyssey! We are happy to help you find your path!