Pursuit of Wellness: Episode Summary

Title: Ozempic 101: Microdosing, PCOS, Fertility & Building Metabolic Health
Host: Mari Llewellyn
Guest: Dr. Tina Moore
Release Date: December 9, 2024

Introduction

In this enlightening episode of the Pursuit of Wellness podcast, host Mari Llewellyn welcomes Dr. Tina Moore, a renowned naturopathic and chiropractic physician specializing in regenerative medicine. The focus of their conversation centers around GLP1 medications—particularly Ozempic—and their applications beyond traditional weight loss and diabetes management. Dr. Moore delves deep into the multifaceted benefits, risks, and strategic use of GLP1s, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of these potent medications.

Understanding GLP1 Medications Beyond Weight Loss

Dr. Tina Moore introduces the concept of utilizing GLP1 agonists not just for weight loss or diabetes but for their broader impacts on various organ systems.

Dr. Tina Moore [00:00]: "The reason I came out with this concept of utilizing these GLP1s outside of weight loss and diabetes was because we had all this data showing that they had these impacts on different organ systems of the body. Why not?"

Microdosing vs. Standard Dosing

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the practice of microdosing GLP1s. Dr. Moore emphasizes the importance of individualized dosing, contrasting it with the higher doses often prescribed in mainstream medical settings.

• Mari Llewellyn [01:38]: Notes the trend of influencers and individuals in aesthetic-centric communities like LA using higher doses to achieve rapid weight loss, which may lead to adverse effects.

• Dr. Tina Moore [06:53]: Shares her personal experience as one of the first to use GLP1s beyond standard doses, highlighting the substantial health benefits observed.

Dr. Tina Moore [16:38]: "I think it plays on our dopamine pathways and really interesting. Again, I think too much can sort of bottom out those pathways and make you not want anything."

GLP1s and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Dr. Moore provides an in-depth analysis of how GLP1s can benefit individuals with PCOS, touching upon hormonal regulation, insulin resistance, and fertility enhancements.

• Fiona Attucks [07:53]: Shares her personal struggle with PCOS, emphasizing the emotional toll of the condition despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

• Dr. Tina Moore [11:06]: Explains that PCOS is a complex syndrome influenced by genetic and epigenetic factors, and posits that GLP1s can help regulate metabolic health, thereby alleviating PCOS symptoms.

Dr. Tina Moore [12:57]: "We have to pull several levers with PCOS and it really comes down to the individual and what's driving it for them."

Impact on Metabolic Health

The conversation extends to the broader implications of GLP1s on metabolic health, underscoring their role in improving insulin signaling, reducing inflammation, and enhancing mitochondrial function.

• Dr. Tina Moore [21:18]: Discusses how GLP1s improve insulin reception and metabolic pathways, contributing to overall metabolic optimization.

• Dr. Tina Moore [23:01]: Emphasizes the necessity of metabolic health for everyone, not just those who are obese, noting that compromised metabolic health can lead to issues like insulin resistance regardless of body size.

Dr. Tina Moore [29:25]: "Yes. 94% of US adults have busted cardiometabolic health. That was pre-lockdowns, so God only knows what it is now."

GLP1s and the Gut Microbiome

Dr. Moore explores the relationship between GLP1s and the gut microbiome, highlighting how these medications can shift gut flora towards a more beneficial composition.

• Dr. Tina Moore [34:46]: Describes how GLP1s facilitate a balanced gut microbiome by regulating both favorable and pathogenic organisms, leading to improved bowel movements and overall gut health.

Dr. Tina Moore [36:47]: "They'll report that their bowel movements are way better formed, more comfortable, or sometimes the opposite with constipation or diarrhea during the adjustment period."

Risks and Side Effects

The discussion addresses potential risks associated with GLP1 use, including addiction to the medication's mood-enhancing effects and the physical consequences of inappropriate dosing.

• Dr. Tina Moore [39:29]: Warns against the addictive potential of GLP1s when used excessively for rapid weight loss, noting that overuse can lead to severe health issues.

Dr. Tina Moore [44:58]: "Why are people addicted to being thin? Which I have been guilty of. It's pretty addictive."

Distinct GLP1 Medications: Ozempic vs. Wegovy vs. Mounjaro

Dr. Moore differentiates between various GLP1 medications, including Ozempic (semaglutide), Wegovy (semaglutide for weight loss), and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro).

• Dr. Tina Moore [54:12]: Clarifies the differences in FDA approvals and functionalities of each medication, highlighting the additional actions of Tirzepatide on glucagon.

Dr. Tina Moore [54:04]: "Semaglutide is the GLP1 agonist. Tirzepatide is a GLP1 agonist and a GIP agonist, impacting glucagon as well."

Economic Considerations and Access

The high cost of GLP1 medications is scrutinized, pointing out the discrepancies in pricing across different countries and the affordability challenges faced by patients.

• Dr. Tina Moore [55:45]: Criticizes the exorbitant pricing of GLP1s in the U.S. compared to their production costs and prices abroad.

Dr. Tina Moore [55:34]: "The same exact drug is being sold in Germany and Canada for like a couple hundred bucks. So I don't know what's going on there."

Recommendations for Safe and Effective Use

Dr. Moore provides actionable advice for listeners considering GLP1s, emphasizing the importance of foundational health practices and working with informed medical professionals.

• Dr. Tina Moore [62:54]: Advocates for establishing foundational health practices—like sleep optimization, strength training, and stress management—before or alongside GLP1 use.

Dr. Tina Moore [62:54]: "First make sure you have the foundations in place."

Wellness Defined

In a heartfelt closing, Dr. Moore defines wellness as freedom, underscoring the essential role of health in achieving personal autonomy and quality of life.

Dr. Tina Moore [65:50]: "Wellness to me means freedom. If I don't have my health, I don't have anything."

Conclusion

This episode of Pursuit of Wellness offers a comprehensive exploration of GLP1 medications, presenting Dr. Tina Moore's expertise on their versatile applications and highlighting both their potential and pitfalls. Listeners gain valuable insights into how these medications can be leveraged for broader health benefits, the importance of personalized dosing, and the need for a holistic approach to wellness.

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Tina Moore [00:00]: "Why not [use GLP1s beyond weight loss and diabetes]?"
• Mari Llewellyn [08:34]: "It's about living with freedom."
• Dr. Tina Moore [12:57]: "We have to pull several levers with PCOS."
• Dr. Tina Moore [29:25]: "94% of US adults have busted cardiometabolic health."
• Dr. Tina Moore [55:34]: "Semaglutide sits on the GLP1 receptor and it acts as GLP1."
• Dr. Tina Moore [62:54]: "First make sure you have the foundations in place."

Resources:

• Dr. Tina Moore's Website: drtina.com
• Follow Dr. Moore on Instagram and YouTube
• Educational Courses and Free Content Available on Her Platforms

For more episodes and insights on wellness, subscribe to the Pursuit of Wellness podcast and join Mari Llewellyn on her mission to help you become the best version of yourself.