If there’s one thing that get TikTok’s algorithm going, it’s weight loss. And the most recent “magical” elixir meant to help you lose 40+ pounds in just a few weeks is absolutely no exception. If you’re skeptical, you should be, because “oatzempic” is just another potentially dangerous fad diet.
Let’s dive in.
What is Oatzempic?
A smoothie. Specifically, an oat smoothie made with water and lime juice—which doesn’t exactly sound appetizing to me, but to each their own.
If that sounds like just an oat smoothie, that’s because it is. TikTokers spreading this recipe as divine intervention note that a good oat smoothie can leave you full for quite some time with minimal calories. That’s it.
Thankfully, no one is dosing their (bad) oat smoothies with actual Ozempic.
Do Oats Help You Lose Weight?
On a calorie restrictive diet, oats are a nice, filling option. That’s because they’re whole grains and thus a natural source of fiber. All that fiber is what makes you feel full for longer amounts of time, which is why people can find it helpful in losing weight.
Just saying, though, there’s no evidence that the addition of water and lime juice would necessarily help oats do their job. So, if you actually want to try an oat-based smoothie, you can make it taste good. Try adding fresh fruit for sweetness and swapping water for a plant-based milk of your choice.
It Goes Without Saying…
But no one ingredient is the magic bullet to weight loss.
An oat smoothie is not a complete breakfast, and depriving yourself of the things you need won’t help you lose weight long term.
“Fad diets can be tempting as they promise a quick fix to a long-term problem,” explains The Association of British Dieticians. “But restrictive, or extreme diets that have no scientific basis can put your health at risk, and following a fad diet may cause a cycle of weight loss followed by weight gain.”
