A Funny Start to Your GLP-1 Journey
I was at one of my favorite restaurants with friends when the waiter placed a massive plate of nachos in front of me. My pre-GLP-1 self would have devoured half before realizing I even had company. But now? I just stared at it like it was an alien artifact. My friend nudged me and whispered, “Are you okay?” I nodded, still mesmerized. “I think… I think I don’t want this?” The table fell silent. My friends looked at me like I had just announced I was moving to Mars. That’s when I realized, losing weight on a GLP-1 isn’t just about eating less. it is a whole new way of experiencing food, life, and all the weird changes in between.
Buckle up, because things are about to get interesting!
Losing weight with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound or Mounjaro can be a game changer. These drugs help regulate appetite and blood sugar, leading to significant weight loss. But beyond the expected results, there are some downright weird things that can happen along the way. If you are on a GLP-1, you might find yourself experiencing some of these unusual effects.
Let’s get to the Top 25.
25 Really Weird Things That Happen When You Lose Weight. The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly! (in no particular order)
1. Your Taste Buds Change
Foods you once loved might start to taste awful, while things you never liked suddenly become appealing. Many people report an aversion to greasy or ultra-processed foods. It is like your body is rewiring itself to prefer healthier options without you even trying! For me, eating a salad at a restaurant is not something to be enjoyed. Quite frankly, if you see me in public eating a salad, consider it a universal sign that I am being held against my will and call for help! Seriously, my eating habits have migrated to healthier options though.
2. You Forget to Eat
You might go an entire day and suddenly realize, “Wait, I haven’t eaten anything!” This can feel surreal, especially if you were someone who always thought about food. It truly is a bizarre experience when hunger no longer dominates your daily routine.
3. Strange Digestive Side Effects
Some people experience “phantom hunger pangs” or sudden food intolerances they never had before. Others find their digestion slowing down or, on the flip side, speeding up at unexpected times. Remember, many times when you feel hunger, it may actually be a sign of thirst disguised as hunger.
4. Dramatic Changes in Clothing Fit
Some people lose weight in unexpected areas first, like their wrists or feet. Yes, your shoes might get looser before your jeans do! Suddenly, your rings slide off, and you need a new watch strap. While you may be tempted to run out and buy new clothes, sometimes the math isn’t mathing as well on the sizes you want to be in. Be patient, they will fit soon!
5. Weird Dreams
Vivid, bizarre dreams have been reported by GLP-1 users. Some describe dreams about food, while others experience intense, lifelike scenarios. Who knew weight loss would come with a side of nightly adventure films in your head?
6. You Might Develop Food Aversions
Many report that meat, dairy, or even coffee start to seem repulsive. The idea of eating bacon might make your stomach churn, even if you used to love it. I have developed an aversion to beef, specifically a nice filet mignon. I just do not want one now. It is not that I am repulsed, but the delicacy of it is just unappealing to me and it is no longer a luxury or treat for me
7. Your Body Temperature Might Feel Off
Some people feel colder than usual, likely due to reduced body fat and metabolic changes. You might find yourself piling on sweaters while everyone else is comfortable, There are a lot of reasons for this, and I have shared a great article that you can read here.
8. Mood Shifts: For Better or Worse
Some people feel an unexpected boost in energy and motivation, while others experience mood swings or irritability. Remember, your brain is recalibrating along with your body. Give yourself some grace and learn to laugh along your journey.
9. Your Face Might Look Different
Rapid weight loss can lead to “Ozempic face,” where facial fat loss makes features look sharper. Some love the chiseled look, while others feel like they have aged overnight. Here are some of my favorite skin care products that keep me glowing!
10. People Treat You Differently
Many people find that they get more compliments, different treatment, or even new levels of attention after losing weight. It can be an eye opening, humbling and sometimes frustrating experience. The society stigma about appearance still remains.
11. Changes in Alcohol Tolerance
A drink that once felt mild may hit much harder, leading to quicker intoxication and stronger hangovers. Your new motto? Sip cautiously! For others, some may feel that a drink does not hit them at all. This is a sign that if you do decide to have some alcohol, go slow and see how your body reacts. It may very well be a different experience than you are used to.
12. Changes in Hair Texture or Growth
Some people notice hair thinning, while others experience a change in texture or growth speed. It’s always a surprise when your hair starts behaving differently. It is widely know that rapid weight loss does contribute to hair loss, but for many, that will return once you have leveled out.
13. Altered Body Odor
Weight loss and metabolism changes can lead to shifts in body odor. Your body is metabolizing fat more and you will tend to throw off scents that may be considered more offensive or even sweeter to some. You might notice a different smell after workouts or even a change in how your sweat feels.
14. Increased Sensitivity to Smells
Your sense of smell might become heightened, making certain odors overwhelming. That coworker’s cologne? Suddenly unbearable. Mayonnaise? Revolting. Phantom smells like that pink powder your school janitor put on that weird kid’s barf when you were young? Yeah, I can smell it right now. WEIRD, Right?
15. Changes in Energy Levels Throughout the Day
Some experience bursts of energy at odd times, while others feel an unusual fatigue pattern. You might go from ready to run a marathon to needing a nap in record time. Listen to your body signals, as many times you might be experiencing hunger, or thirst. Remember hydration and electrolytes are your new best friends in this journey!
16. Less Interest in Snacking
You might find yourself mindlessly walking past your usual snacks without any interest. I still have leftover candy from Halloween, and even extra Christmas cookies that remain sitting in my pantry getting stale. It is both sad and exciting to know I am less temptedd. That once-irresistible candy aisle? Meh.
17. Your Skin Might Change
Some people experience clearer skin, while others notice more dryness due to dehydration. Hydration is key! In addition, GLP-1 medications have shown measured reductions. in inflammation. The reduced inflammation shows up in your skin too, making your glow up even brighter! Weight loss and dietary changes can impact nail health, making them more fragile or stronger. Keep an eye on those cuticles!
18. Your Eyes Might Appear Bigger
As facial fat decreases, your eyes may seem more pronounced, making them look larger and more defined. For those that wear makeup, you may need to re-think how you are applying cosmetics to highlight your new features.
19. You Might Sleep Differently
Some people report needing less sleep, while others feel more fatigued despite sleeping longer. Your sleep cycle may do a complete reset. Now that medications like Zepbound have been FDA approved as a treatment for Sleep Apnea, people are reporting that the quality of sleep they are getting has dramatically increased.
20. More Frequent Bathroom Trips
Changes in digestion can lead to more or fewer bowel movements than usual. Your bathroom schedule might feel like a mystery novel. As your glucose is getting under control and inflammation is reduced, you will also find frequent trips to relieve your bladder as well.
21. Sitting on Hard Surfaces and Chairs is Loss Comfortable
This is a good thing. Let’s face it we have less padding and natural cushioning to sit on. Sitting on hard chairs involves more fidgeting and adjusting because it just makes our tailbones a little more sore now. Also, many have reported that they are more comfortable sitting with their legs crossed because they no longer go numb of fall asleep! Sore butt for the win!
23. You Might Experience More Muscle Cramps
Electrolyte imbalances from rapid weight loss can lead to unexpected muscle cramps. Hydration and minerals are your best friends. No one likes waking up in the middle of the night with a leg cramp, so be sure you are hydrating and getting in those electrolytes.
24. Changes in Libido
Some people notice either an increase or decrease in their sex drive as their hormones adjust. Your romantic life might get a surprise twist.
25. Feeling More or Less Social
Weight loss can impact confidence, which might lead to being more outgoing or more withdrawn, depending on how you feel about the changes. The way society interacts with people judging them on their size is both enlightening and disheartening. Give yourself some grace and ease back into the swing of things.
Final Thoughts
Weight loss on GLP-1s comes with plenty of expected benefits, but don’t be surprised if some of these bizarre side effects show up along the way. Everyone’s journey is different, so if you’ve experienced something weird that we didn’t mention, share it in the comments! If you are interested in more helpful tips, try our 5-Minute Podcasts available on your favorite streaming services.
Have you noticed any unusual changes while taking a GLP-1? Leave a comment and share your experiences!
Leave a Reply