In an intriguing personal account published by The Wall Street Journal on March 17, 2025, writer Charlotte Cowles reveals a surprising outcome in her weight loss experience: a year after discontinuing the popular weight loss drug Ozempic, she managed to lose an additional 20 pounds. This revelation challenges the common narrative surrounding weight loss medications, which often suggest that ceasing their use leads to inevitable weight regain. Instead, Cowles' story offers a glimpse into how stepping away from pharmaceutical intervention sparked a sustainable shift in her lifestyle and relationship with her body.

Cowles begins by recounting her initial decision to try Ozempic, a drug originally developed to manage Type 2 diabetes but widely adopted for its weight loss effects. She started taking it in late 2022, prompted by a combination of postpartum weight gain and societal pressures to slim down quickly. "I didn't want to be the frumpy mom at preschool drop-off," she writes in The Wall Street Journal, capturing the emotional weight of her choice. Over the course of several months, she lost about 15 pounds, aligning with the drug's promise of appetite suppression and metabolic boosts. Yet, the experience came with downsides: persistent nausea, fatigue, and a growing unease about relying on a medication long-term.

By early 2024, Cowles decided to stop taking Ozempic, expecting the pounds to creep back as they often do for many users. Studies cited by The Wall Street Journal indicate that most people regain much of the weight lost after discontinuing such drugs, sometimes even surpassing their starting point. Initially, her appetite returned with a vengeance, and she braced herself for the reversal. But something unexpected happened. Instead of ballooning back to her pre-Ozempic weight, she began to lose more, dropping an additional 20 pounds over the next year. This brought her total weight loss to 35 pounds, a result she attributes not to the drug's lingering effects but to a profound shift in her habits.

What changed? Cowles credits a mix of practical adjustments and psychological reframing. Without Ozempic curbing her hunger, she had to confront her eating patterns head-on. "I started paying attention to what my body actually wanted, not just what I could get away with not eating," she explains in The Wall Street Journal. She swapped out mindless snacking for structured meals, prioritizing protein and vegetables over the carb-heavy convenience foods she once leaned on. Exercise, previously a chore, became a regular part of her routine, not as punishment but as a way to feel strong. Walking her kids to school or lifting weights at the gym replaced the sedentary habits of her pre-drug days.

This transformation wasn't without its struggles. Cowles admits to moments of doubt, especially when old cravings resurfaced or when the scale didn't budge for weeks. Yet, she found motivation in the autonomy of her progress. Unlike her time on Ozempic, where weight loss felt like a byproduct of the drug, this phase was entirely her own. "It's slower, messier, and harder, but it's mine," she writes in The Wall Street Journal, a sentiment that underscores the personal triumph of her journey. Experts quoted in the piece, like Dr. Robert Gabbay of the American Diabetes Association, note that such outcomes are rare but possible when lifestyle changes take root post-medication.

Cowles' story also touches on broader implications. Weight loss drugs like Ozempic have surged in popularity, with millions turning to them for quick results. But her experience raises questions about their role as a long-term solution. The Wall Street Journal reports that while these drugs can kickstart weight loss, maintaining it often hinges on behavior, not pharmacology. For Cowles, quitting the drug became the catalyst for a deeper, more enduring change, one that outstripped the scale's numbers and reshaped her self-image.

Reflecting on her journey, Cowles doesn't dismiss Ozempic's value – it worked for her when she needed it. But she's clear-eyed about its limits. "The real work started when I stopped," she concludes in The Wall Street Journal. A year later, at a size 6 and feeling healthier than ever, she's proof that sometimes the path to lasting change begins where the prescription ends.

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That vibrantly colored smoothie lighting up your social media feed might not be the health elixir you imagined. While these photogenic fruit-based beverages have become synonymous with wellness culture, nutrition experts are increasingly questioning their health benefits, suggesting some may pack more sugar than traditional soft drinks. Clinical Dietitian Luda Nevo weighs in on the smoothie debate.

The allure of liquid nutrition

"A typical smoothie combines fruits with a liquid base – milk, plant-based alternatives, or yogurt – often enhanced with healthy fats like tahini or avocado, natural sweeteners such as dates or maple syrup, and occasionally vegetables for added nutrition," Nevo noted.

The appeal is understandable. Each glass delivers a concentrated dose of nutrients: antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber from whole fruits and vegetables. For fitness enthusiasts or those seeking additional protein, adding protein-rich yogurt or supplements can help meet daily requirements. However, this nutritional story has a more complex subplot.

Sweet deception

"What many fail to realize is that smoothies are essentially concentrated calories in liquid form," Nevo cautioned. "Despite their healthy reputation, a single serving can contain up to 500 calories and significant amounts of sugar and carbohydrates – potentially derailing weight management efforts."

Recent research reveals an unsettling truth: many smoothies contain more sugar than a serving of soda. This sugar content, combined with the natural acids from fruits and vegetables, poses a double threat to dental health, potentially accelerating both cavity formation and enamel erosion.

The processing itself compromises nutritional value. The blending process destroys 30%-40% of the original fiber content. Health researchers have identified potential long-term risks to liver and intestinal health from regular consumption of sugar-rich smoothies.

"Individuals with diabetes or digestive conditions like irritable bowel syndrome should exercise particular caution," Nevo advised. "The high carbohydrate and sugar content can significantly impact blood sugar levels."

Nature's original packaging

"Whole fruits and vegetables remain superior to their blended counterparts," Nevo emphasized. "The natural act of chewing extends meal duration and enhances satiety. Liquid calories bypass these important physiological signals, often leading to increased daily caloric intake."

A balanced approach

For those committed to incorporating smoothies into a weight-management plan, Nevo recommended a measured approach: "Start with a single serving of fruit – half a banana or a medium apple – add healthy fats like tahini or nuts and incorporate protein-rich yogurt, either dairy or plant-based. Adding vegetables such as cucumber or lettuce increases nutritional density while reducing calories.

"Smoothies can serve as occasional meal replacements or snacks, particularly for those struggling to consume adequate produce or facing time constraints. However, they should complement, not replace, a whole-food-based diet."

The key lies in moderation and mindful preparation, transforming these beverages from potential dietary pitfalls into practical nutrition tools.

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A small study of 21 pairs of identical twins found that those following a vegan diet for 8 weeks showed decreased signs of aging in their DNA, measured by reduced DNA methylation levels associated with biological aging, compared to their omnivorous twins.

The omnivorous diet in the study included 170-225 grams of meat, one egg, and one and a half servings of dairy daily.

Observational studies show favorable effects of vegan diets on health in middle age but not in older individuals.

While the study reported decreased signs of DNA aging, the short follow-up time of two months cannot predict the potential long-term damage of extended veganism on the body.

The study was published in the latest issue of BMC Medicine journal.

Independent experts cautioned that cutting out animal products from the diet could lead to nutritional deficiencies in the long term, such as vitamin B12, calcium, iron, zinc, omega-3, and potential muscle loss, low bone density, and neurological disorders, especially in older vegans, which could impact their quality of life.

Sources: Internewscast, Daily Mail, Scimex, Mirror, Newstalk

This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq.

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A groundbreaking study published in JAMA Network Open has cast doubt on the widespread practice of taking daily multivitamins for disease prevention. The research, conducted by the National Cancer Institute, found that regular multivitamin use was associated with a 4% higher risk of death compared to non-use.

A bitter pill to swallow: Multivitamins may increase risk of death#health #wellness #diet #vitamins #HealthAndWellness #HealthyLife pic.twitter.com/niXV9IB0Q1

— Israel Hayom English (@IsraelHayomEng) July 1, 2024

The study, which followed 390,000 healthy Americans over two decades, challenges the common belief that multivitamins offer significant health benefits. Researchers divided participants into three groups – nonusers, occasional users, and daily users – and tracked their health outcomes for two decades. During the follow-up period, nearly 165,000 deaths occurred.

"In this cohort study of 390,124 US adults without a history of major chronic diseases, we did not find evidence to support improved longevity among healthy adults who regularly take multivitamins," the researchers stated. They added, "However, we cannot preclude the possibility that daily [multivitamin] use may be associated with other health outcomes related to aging."

The findings suggest that multivitamins did not lower the risk of dying from cancer, heart disease, or cerebrovascular diseases. This conclusion aligns with a 2022 determination by the US Preventive Services Task Force, which found that vitamin and mineral supplementation offers "little or no benefit" in preventing cancer, cardiovascular disease, and death.

Despite these findings, multivitamin use remains popular in the US, with one in three adults taking them, typically to prevent disease or improve health. The researchers noted that this popularity persists despite mixed evidence about their benefits.

The study's authors propose a shift in focus from supplements to whole foods. "Refocusing nutrition interventions on food, rather than supplements, may provide the mortality benefits that multivitamins cannot deliver," they wrote. "Vegetables, fruits, legumes, and cereal grains are staples in areas of remarkable longevity."

While the study's results are compelling, the researchers acknowledged some limitations. Participants may not have accurately reported their multivitamin use, and individuals with a history of cancer and other chronic diseases were excluded from the study.

The researchers also hypothesized that people who use multivitamins may have healthier lifestyles overall, while those with health issues might be more likely to increase their multivitamin intake. They did note that some specific supplements may offer benefits, leaving room for further research in this area.

As this study adds to the growing body of evidence questioning the efficacy of multivitamins, it underscores the importance of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet in maintaining overall health and longevity. It seems an apple a day will keep the doctor away after all. 

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A large-scale study that tracked over 25,000 women for more than two decades has uncovered compelling evidence linking the Mediterranean diet to increased longevity, according to researchers. The findings, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, suggest that women who closely adhered to this dietary pattern experienced a significant reduction in the risk of mortality, including from leading causes such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.

"For women interested in longevity, our study shows that following a Mediterranean dietary pattern could result in about one-quarter reduction in risk of death over more than 25 years with benefit for both cancer and cardiovascular mortality, the top causes of death," stated Dr. Samia Mora, a cardiologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital and professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston, in an email.

The Mediterranean diet emphasizes a plant-based approach to eating, with a focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, seeds, and a liberal use of extra-virgin olive oil. Red meat is consumed sparingly, while oily fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is encouraged. Eggs, dairy, and poultry are allowed in moderation, contrasting with the typical Western diet.

"In this study, adherence to the Mediterranean diet was a proxy for diet quality. Those who adhered most closely were eating more legumes, more vegetables, more fruits, less meat, and less processed meats," explained Dr. David Katz, a specialist in preventive and lifestyle medicine and founder of the nonprofit True Health Initiative, who was not involved in the research.

While the study was observational and could not establish a direct causal link, Katz expressed confidence in the findings, stating, "We may be comfortable inferring that a high-quality diet did, indeed, cause a lower risk of death."

The study, led by Shafqat Ahmad, an associate professor of molecular epidemiology at Uppsala University in Sweden, revealed a graded association between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and reduced mortality risk. "Each increase in adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with a 6% lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 5% reduced risk of dying from either heart disease or cancer," Ahmad said in an email.

The researchers emphasized the importance of studying the diet's specific effects on women, as previous data has often overlooked gender-specific nuances. By closely following the Mediterranean dietary pattern, the study found that women could reduce their risk of early death by 23%, their risk of dying from cancer by 17%, and their risk of dying from cardiovascular disease by 20%.

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Whenever we start a diet, we often categorize certain foods as "off-limits" – pizza and ice cream are typically at the top of that list. However, Shirly Koren Shay, a dietitian, workout coach, and mother of three, suggests it's time to change our mindset about these seemingly indulgent treats and embrace moderation as the key to sustainable weight loss success.

The "White Bear" experiment by psychologist Daniel Wegner demonstrated that when instructed not to think about a white bear, it became nearly impossible to avoid fixating on the very image we aimed to suppress. This phenomenon extends to dieting – forbidding certain foods can amplify cravings, undermining our efforts.

"Instead of placing foods into the 'forbidden' category, we should embrace the idea of enjoying all foods in moderation," explains nutritionist Sarah Wilson. "Deprivation only breeds resentment and makes us more likely to overindulge when temptation strikes."

So, how can one indulge in pizza and ice cream while still shedding pounds? The experts offer three viable options: store-bought, healthier alternatives, and homemade versions.

The store-bought option:

Pizza: A standard pizza slice from a pizzeria can pack around 250 calories, but incorporating a slice into a balanced meal with salad and protein can satisfy cravings while maintaining a calorie deficit.
Ice Cream: A half-cup (100g) serving of premium ice cream contains approximately 220 calories – an acceptable daily treat when accounting for overall intake.

The healthier alternative:

Pizza: Cauliflower-based crusts offer a low-calorie (47 calories per slice) base to load with veggies, lean protein, and a sprinkle of cheese.
Ice Cream: The frozen aisle is brimming with high-protein, low-calorie ice cream options perfect for a guilt-free daily indulgence.

The homemade route:

Pizza: Whipping up a protein-packed pizza crust at home allows you to control portions and ingredients for a satisfying, diet-friendly meal.
Ice Cream: Nutritious "nice cream" recipes using frozen bananas or yogurt provide a sweet, creamy treat without the excess calories and sugar.

"At the end of the day, no food is truly off-limits," Wilson emphasizes. "It's about finding a balance that allows you to enjoy your favorite treats without compromising your goals. Moderation and smart substitutions are key to long-term success."

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The 80s were full of trends: women bleached their hair, used purple eyeshadow, and sometimes, only ate popcorn for dinner. 

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Interestingly, popcorn has been making headlines in Israel lately with allegations of Transportation Minister Miri Regev handing out popcorn to fellow lawmakers during a squabble between security cabinet members last week. 

In honor of Popcorn Day (Jan. 19), let's revisit the 80s popcorn diet. In 1987, Dr. Joel Herskowitz published the book "The Popcorn Plus Diet" in which he claimed that eating popcorn was superior to having a meal. 

Contrary to other diets, which can be complex, the Popcorn Diet seemed easy enough: simply substitute one meal with popcorn. There are no restrictions in terms of time or amount. 

Today we know, of course, that popcorn, although a whole-grain snack, does not provide an adequate amount of nutrients and can cause digestive problems. But perhaps a balanced meal and eating popcorn instead of sugar-loaded snacks could lead to weight loss. 

According to Lisa Drayer, nutritionist, author, and health journalist for CNN, "In its purest form – that is, plain air-popped kernels – it's a healthy, whole-grain, antioxidant-rich snack food that comes at a pretty low-calorie cost for those who like to mindlessly nibble." 

However, she warned, that the kind of popcorn sold in supermarkets that are heated in the microwave, can be high in sodium, saturated fat, and sugar. 

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Researchers found no association between weight change and the practice of restricting food intake at specific times of the day, often referred to as intermittent fasting, following a study at Johns Hopkins University.

During the study, 547 participants logged their food intake and meals on a mobile app every day for six months. Then, scientists used an electronic health record to look at their weight over about six years; more than five years before and about six months after

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"This study shows that changing your timing of eating is not going to prevent slow weight gain over many, many years – and that probably the most effective strategy is by really monitoring how much you eat, and by eating fewer large meals and more small meals," said Dr. Wendy Bennett, author of the study and associate professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins Medicine.

However, "The effect is so small, I wouldn't tell anyone to change what they're doing," Courtney Peterson, an associate professor of nutrition sciences at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, who was not involved in the study, said.

Several results in previous studies indicated mixed outcomes. Some studies revealed that limiting calorie intake or fasting on a determined day helps lose weight. Nevertheless, other studies showed that regulating your diet for a specific period cause less weight loss than limiting your daily calorie intake.

"Some of the best data in humans suggest that diet quality is probably more important than meal timing," Peterson said.

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Podcast host Joe Rogan has recently announced that he would go on a "carnivore diet," in which he would eat only meat and fruit in January. The decision was made public on his Instagram account earlier this month.

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"January is world carnivore month. This time I'm adding fruit to this diet. Just meat and fruit for the whole month," the UFC host wrote.

This is not the first time the host, whose program is probably the most popular in the US, has gone on such a "carnivore" diet. In January 2020 he spent 30 days only eating grass-fed beef, elk, and eggs, according to Men's Health magazine. Back then this helped him shed 12 pounds, and he said it helped him regain energy levels.

"When you have no carbohydrates, one of the things that's amazing is that there's no crashing," Rogan said told Tom Papa during that interview. "My energy levels were amazing."

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Polls have indicated that nearly one-quarter (24%) of US adults have tried intermittent fasting to lose weight, but data engineers at Lumen – which has developed a handheld metabolism tracker – are now seeing that an overwhelming number of their users are experiencing what they call a stress response to fasting too many hours.

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The Luman tracker measures a person's body carbon dioxide concentration, based on a breath sample, and analyzes it to determine if they are burning fats or carbohydrates for fuel.

The Lumen data team looked at over 1 million monthly metabolism measurements from Lumen users and arrived at insights that can help dieters avoid a counteractive stress response, which is what happens when the body overextends its fat-burning state and is triggered to use carbs rather than fat for fuel.

However, the data still supports the benefits of intermittent fasting, if optimized for an individual's needs. According to Lumen, users of its tracker who fasted progressively in an optimized and measured framework were able to achieve fat burn.

"People can reach great results by using fasting as a tool for weight loss and achieving a healthy metabolism, however, optimizing your fasting routine is crucial since each one of us has a different metabolism. Therefore, some will need longer fasting windows than others in order to optimize the result of their fast," says Lumen's head of data Barak Alon.

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