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Black Friday Deal graphic showing a free 1-month supply of NAD+ Injection ($175 value) with an Ellie MD GLP-1 Microdose purchase. Three medical vials wrapped in a festive red bow.

Beyond Weight Loss: The Nurse’s Guide to Microdosing GLP-1s and NAD+

Published on by J. Nicole, RNLeave a comment

Are you tired of feeling tired?

I hear it every single day. You are exhausted, you are experiencing brain fog, and you feel like your body is fighting against you. You tell yourself you will prioritize your health “after the holidays” or “in January.”

But as a nurse, I am here to tell you that exhausted is not a personality trait. And accepting that feeling drained is “just a part of aging” is not an option.

If you have been curious about the buzz surrounding GLP-1s but are hesitant because you don’t want to just “lose weight”—or if you are in that perimenopause transition and looking for a way to feel like yourself again—it is time to look at the science of microdosing.

This isn’t about a quick fix. It is about longevity science. And right now, there is a special opportunity to start this protocol with a massive advantage (more on that at the end).

What is Microdosing?

When most people hear about GLP-1s, they think of aggressive weight loss. But there is a different approach: Microdosing.

Think of microdosing as whispering to your metabolism instead of screaming at it. We aren’t trying to completely silence your appetite or force rapid changes. We are supporting the body’s natural functions to correct metabolic dysfunction.

11 Benefits of Microdosing GLP-1s (That Have Nothing to Do with the Scale)

While weight management is a fantastic side effect, the systemic benefits of this peptide therapy are what truly excite me as a healthcare provider.

  1. 1mproved Insulin Sensitivity It helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it easier to support insulin sensitivity. This is vital for reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome, which becomes much more common during perimenopause.
  2. Hormonal Balance Support For my perimenopause and menopause ladies, this is huge. It can help manage the hormonal imbalances related to insulin and estrogen. It can also positively influence cortisol levels, reducing the toll chronic stress takes on your body.
  3. Brain Health & Cognitive Function Brain fog is one of the biggest complaints I hear from women in midlife. GLP-1s have neuroprotective benefits that support cognitive function and mental clarity.
  4. Cardiovascular Health It improves lipid profiles by supporting healthy cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure by improving vascular function.
  5. Quiet the “Food Noise” Microdosing helps suppress that constant mental chatter about food. It promotes satiety so you can make conscious, healthy eating habits without feeling deprived.
  6. Gut Health By slowing gastric emptying, it improves digestion and nutrient absorption. A healthier gut microbiome is linked to better immunity and reduced inflammation.
  7. Anti-inflammatory Effects Systemic inflammation is a root cause of so many chronic issues, including arthritis and skin aging. Lowering inflammation supports your whole body.
  8. Muscle Maintenance Unlike aggressive dieting, microdosing helps preserve muscle mass. This is essential for longevity and strength as we age.
  9. Metabolic Health Boost It enhances overall metabolic function, teaching your body to use fat as an energy source more efficiently.
  10. Emotional Well-Being Stabilizing blood sugar levels has a direct impact on your mood. This can help reduce the anxiety and stress often associated with feeling out of control of your health.
  11. Long-Term Prevention This is a proactive tool. It supports longevity by addressing core health issues that become prevalent in midlife, promoting overall vitality.

Why You Should Pair It With NAD+

If the GLP-1 Microdose is the steering wheel keeping you on the road, NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is the gas in the tank.

NAD+ is a vital coenzyme that fuels your cells. As we age, our natural levels drop, leading to fatigue and slower cellular repair. Supplementing with NAD+ provides a “cellular battery” boost.

  • It boosts energy by converting nutrients into ATP.
  • It supports DNA repair to slow the aging process.
  • It improves metabolism to assist with weight management.

The “Nurse’s RX” Synergy

Why do I recommend these two together? Because they solve the puzzle from two different angles.
A common struggle when changing your metabolism is temporary fatigue. NAD+ directly counteracts this by boosting your cellular energy. While the Microdose regulates your hormones and insulin, the NAD+ optimizes the cellular machinery that burns the fuel.
It is the ultimate “Metabolic Momentum.”

A Special Opportunity to Start

I am a big believer that the best time to start was yesterday, but the second-best time is right now.

For a limited time, we are offering a special bundle to help you kickstart your longevity journey. When you purchase a Longevity Microdose kit, you will receive a 1-month supply of NAD+ for FREE. (This is a $175 value included at no cost.)

Black Friday Deal graphic showing a free 1-month supply of NAD+ Injection ($175 value) with an Ellie MD GLP-1 Microdose purchase. Three medical vials wrapped in a festive red bow.
Don’t miss the biggest wellness deal of the year: Get a free month of NAD+ ($175 value) when you start your longevity microdose protocol. Valid Nov 24 – Dec 1.

You do not have to go “all in” to see changes. You just have to start. This is your chance to get a massive boost while dipping your toes into a protocol that addresses the root causes of how you feel.

Six months from now, you will be so glad you didn’t wait for January.

Shop The Longevity Special

Professional Disclosure: I provide BS-free metabolic education as a registered nurse and health coach for women navigating PCOS, perimenopause, and stubborn weight loss. While I share evidence-based research and nurse-informed support, please remember that I am not your nurse. The content shared here is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not establish a provider-patient relationship. Nothing on this site is a substitute for care from a licensed provider who knows your full health history. All opinions and content shared on this platform are my own and do not reflect the views or endorsements of my employer or the hospital where I am employed.

Scope of Practice and FDA: Per professional coaching guidelines, I may recommend over the counter (OTC) medications or supplements to support your wellness goals. However, I do not prescribe or recommend specific prescription medications. For prescription options, including GLP-1 tools, my role is to help you understand the available science so you can have an informed discussion with your licensed healthcare provider. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and medical treatments require professional oversight.

Trust and Transparency: I only recommend products I trust. Most are items I use personally, while others are shared based on my professional trust in the clinical standards of partners like Ellie MD. Some links are affiliate links or part of brand partnerships, which means I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

It’s Not Cheating, It’s Chemistry: My GLP-1 Journey with Ellie MD | Nicole in Scrubs

Published on by J. Nicole, RNLeave a comment

Every time I share about my GLP-1 journey, the comments flood in.
Some supportive. Some curious. Some skeptical.

And almost every time, someone says it:

“But isn’t that cheating?”

Let’s talk about that.

Because if we don’t call glasses cheating for eyesight 👓
or insulin cheating for diabetes 💉
then why do we treat GLP-1s any differently?

I’m Niki — NICU nurse, wellness advocate, and creator behind Nicole in Scrubs. 💜
I’ve seen how often people blame themselves for health struggles that are really rooted in biology. That’s why I share my GLP-1 journey so openly — to show what happens when science and self-compassion finally meet.

If you’ve been curious about GLP-1 medications or how to start your own journey with support that actually listens, I’ve partnered with Ellie MD to make that process simple, safe, and personal. I even offer one-on-one coaching for everyone who begins through my link.

🧬 The Truth About “Willpower” vs. Biology

As a nurse, I’ve seen this over and over again.
People blaming themselves for biology that’s been quietly working against them.

When hormones like GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) are out of balance, your hunger cues, fullness signals, and blood sugar control all get mixed up. The result? A body that constantly fights to regain weight no matter how much you “eat less and move more.”

GLP-1 medications help restore communication between your gut, brain, and pancreas. They allow your body to do what it was always meant to do. That’s not cheating. That’s science helping your body function the way it should.

💜 Why I Chose to Partner with Ellie MD

When I started sharing my own journey online, I kept getting one question:
“How do I even get started?”

That’s why I decided to partner with Ellie MD, a concierge telehealth service that specializes in obesity care and metabolic health. Their licensed providers understand that obesity isn’t a character flaw. It’s a complex, treatable medical condition.

With Ellie MD, you can:

  • Meet with licensed clinicians through telehealth (no waiting rooms)
  • Get personalized, evidence-based GLP-1 treatment plans
  • Receive continuous support and education through your journey

You deserve care that listens, not lectures.
👉 Start your journey with Ellie MD here.

👩‍⚕️ One-on-One Coaching: My Promise to Every Client

If you begin your journey through my partnership with Ellie MD, you’re not doing it alone. I personally offer one-on-one coaching and support for every client who starts their plan through my link.

That means you’ll have:

  • A nurse (hi, it’s me 👋) who’s been through this herself
  • Weekly check-ins and message support
  • Accountability that feels like community, not pressure

Because this isn’t about dropping pounds.
It’s about gaining back peace with your body.

🌿 You’re Not Broken. You’re Just Ready for Help.

Taking care of your health isn’t weakness.
It’s wisdom.

If you’ve been wondering whether GLP-1s could be right for you, maybe this is your sign to stop fighting biology and start supporting it.

You deserve to feel like yourself again — inside and out.

💜 Click here to start your Ellie MD consultation or reach out to me directly for a private chat about what this process really looks like.

Professional Disclosure: I provide BS-free metabolic education as a registered nurse and health coach for women navigating PCOS, perimenopause, and stubborn weight loss. While I share evidence-based research and nurse-informed support, please remember that I am not your nurse. The content shared here is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not establish a provider-patient relationship. Nothing on this site is a substitute for care from a licensed provider who knows your full health history. All opinions and content shared on this platform are my own and do not reflect the views or endorsements of my employer or the hospital where I am employed.

Scope of Practice and FDA: Per professional coaching guidelines, I may recommend over the counter (OTC) medications or supplements to support your wellness goals. However, I do not prescribe or recommend specific prescription medications. For prescription options, including GLP-1 tools, my role is to help you understand the available science so you can have an informed discussion with your licensed healthcare provider. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and medical treatments require professional oversight.

Trust and Transparency: I only recommend products I trust. Most are items I use personally, while others are shared based on my professional trust in the clinical standards of partners like Ellie MD. Some links are affiliate links or part of brand partnerships, which means I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

My Body Isn’t Broken: A Real Story About PCOS, Loss, and Finding Hope

Published on by J. Nicole, RN2 Comments

Have you ever felt like you’re fighting a battle with your own body that no one else understands?

Maybe for you, it was a diagnosis that seemed to come out of nowhere and changed everything. Maybe it was a long and frustrating cycle of dieting that always left you feeling worse than before. Or maybe it was a season of life—grief, stress, change—that took its toll, emotionally and physically, and you haven’t truly felt like yourself since.

If you’ve ever felt that way, I want you to know I see you. Because for me, it was all of the above. So many of you have seen my journey, but I wanted to share the real story behind it.

My Story Started Long Before the Scale

My relationship with my body was complicated from the start. Growing up, I was a product of 90s starvation diet culture, where being “skinny” was the goal, no matter how unhealthy the methods were.

In my early 20s, I was diagnosed with PCOS, and we began a long and painful journey to start our family. That journey included nine pregnancies. It’s still hard to type that number. Over several years, we experienced the heartbreak of three infant losses and six miscarriages. My body went through an absolute warzone of hormones, grief, emotional eating, and medical interventions like magnesium drips that caused insane fluid retention.

10 years ago at 30 weeks pregnant – yes THIRTY – we don’t make small babies

My Metabolism Had Officially Quit

By the time that chapter of our lives closed, my body felt completely foreign. It felt broken. My metabolism, for all intents and purposes, was non-existent. The old “calories in, calories out” formula was a joke. I once gained 20 pounds in three months from having one soda a month, with absolutely no other changes to my diet. It felt like I was being punished by my own body, and I was starting to believe I’d never have control again.

Finding Hope in Science

The turning point for me was realizing I didn’t need another diet; I needed a different set of tools. I started researching and learning about how my hormones and metabolic system were truly functioning (or not functioning). This is what led me to GLP-1 medications and peptides, like the ones I now get from Ellie MD.

For the first time, it felt like I wasn’t fighting my body anymore. Instead, I was giving it the support it needed to finally work with me. This was the useful, science-backed information I needed to finally find hope again.

This Isn’t Diet Culture – It’s Health

For the first time in my adult life, I have reached a healthy weight, and I’ve done it the HEALTHY way. There is no starvation here. In fact, I eat MORE now than I did before my journey began. The difference is that I’m making better choices, and my body is able to properly use the fuel I give it. This isn’t about fitting into a certain size; it’s about having the energy to live my life, feeling confident in my skin, and knowing I’m nourishing my body.

You’re Not Broken, and You’re Not Alone

I’m sharing all of this because I know how lonely that battle can feel. For years, I thought my body was broken beyond repair. If any part of my story sounds like your own, I just want you to know I see you, and you are not alone. Your story is valid.

If you’re curious and want to know more about the science-backed solutions that helped me, please feel free to leave a comment below. Let’s talk.

Professional Disclosure: I provide BS-free metabolic education as a registered nurse and health coach for women navigating PCOS, perimenopause, and stubborn weight loss. While I share evidence-based research and nurse-informed support, please remember that I am not your nurse. The content shared here is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not establish a provider-patient relationship. Nothing on this site is a substitute for care from a licensed provider who knows your full health history. All opinions and content shared on this platform are my own and do not reflect the views or endorsements of my employer or the hospital where I am employed.

Scope of Practice and FDA: Per professional coaching guidelines, I may recommend over the counter (OTC) medications or supplements to support your wellness goals. However, I do not prescribe or recommend specific prescription medications. For prescription options, including GLP-1 tools, my role is to help you understand the available science so you can have an informed discussion with your licensed healthcare provider. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and medical treatments require professional oversight.

Trust and Transparency: I only recommend products I trust. Most are items I use personally, while others are shared based on my professional trust in the clinical standards of partners like Ellie MD. Some links are affiliate links or part of brand partnerships, which means I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

How Did I Get Here? My Journey Through PCOS, Loss, and Finding Myself Again

Published on by J. Nicole, RN1 Comment

Let me take you back to 2001. I was 18 years old, navigating life as best I could, and decided to switch to the Depo-Provera shot. At the time, I was at my smallest size ever—a size 0. Don’t get too impressed, though. It wasn’t healthy, and even then, I was at the upper limits of a “normal BMI.” That’s when I realized BMI is absolute nonsense. (Seriously, who came up with that?!)

What I didn’t know then was that I had undiagnosed PCOS—a condition that really doesn’t get along with Depo-Provera. Within 72 hours of my first shot, I gained 15 pounds. Not kidding. I woke up, and the shorts I had just bought two weeks earlier didn’t fit. Over the next three months, while that shot coursed through my system, I packed on another 15-20 pounds. My doctor reassured me, saying the weight would “come right off” after a few months. Spoiler alert: It didn’t.

By nine months in, I’d gained over 30 pounds and was an emotional wreck. My cycle—already chaotic—was worse than ever. So, we ditched Depo-Provera and went back to traditional birth control. The weight stayed put, and I started experiencing other symptoms of PCOS, though I wouldn’t get an official diagnosis until 2006.

The Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Fast forward to 2006. I was 22 years old, newly diagnosed with PCOS and pre-diabetes. My husband and I decided to start trying for a baby earlier than planned, knowing infertility might be an uphill battle. What we didn’t expect was my atypical version of PCOS. Instead of struggling with infertility, I had hyperfertility. It really does only take one time, folks, and birth control is not foolproof.

But PCOS wasn’t the only challenge we faced. That same year, after three heartbreaking miscarriages, we discovered a genetic condition—one that gave our babies a 50/50 chance of inheriting not one but two rare syndromes. This discovery would shape our future in ways we couldn’t have imagined.

The Losses That Shaped Me

In 2009, after a whirlwind of deployments, cross-country moves, and life transitions, we welcomed our son, Anthony Maddox, on January 4, 2010. Born at 35 weeks, he carried the weight of those two syndromes and left us too soon, soaring to heaven the same day. I turned to old, unhealthy habits to cope, dropping from 155 to 135 pounds in a haze of grief.

Over the next few years, we endured more losses, including our daughter Avery Shea, who blessed us with 12 beautiful days in 2012, and our youngest son, Richard Franklin, who fought valiantly but passed on February 18, 2016. Each loss came with its own struggles, including weight fluctuations, emotional eating, and the added challenges of gestational hypertension.

Finding My Way Back to Health

By 2022, my health had hit rock bottom. My weight peaked at 209 pounds, and my hypertension was out of control. Every attempt to lose weight was met with failure—five pounds off, ten pounds back on. Keto? Tried it. Lost 25 pounds, gained it all back. COVID and DoorDash? Yeah, they didn’t help either.

Then, in October 2023, everything changed. I started my GLP-1 journey at 192.6 pounds. For the first time in years, I felt like I had a real fighting chance. These medications, combined with lipotropic + B12 injections, Sermorelin, and a lot of determination, helped me break through the barriers PCOS had thrown my way.

Where I Am Today

Thirteen and a half months later, I’m at my lowest weight since starting the Depo-Provera shot—129.4 pounds. I’ve lost over 63 pounds, conquered my insulin resistance (bye-bye, pre-diabetes!), and finally feel like I’m in control of my health.

If you’re struggling, I want you to know you’re not alone. PCOS is a beast, but with the right tools and support, you can overcome it. If you’re curious about GLP-1 medications or need a cheerleader to help you along the way, let me know. I’m here for you!

Ready to start your journey?
✨ Click here to learn about my secret weapon.
✨ Want a health coach who’s been through it all? Send me a message—I gotchu!

Let’s rewrite your story together.

Want to watch my face transform after losing over 63lbs? Watch the video below.

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTYNsV8TP/

Professional Disclosure: I provide BS-free metabolic education as a registered nurse and health coach for women navigating PCOS, perimenopause, and stubborn weight loss. While I share evidence-based research and nurse-informed support, please remember that I am not your nurse. The content shared here is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not establish a provider-patient relationship. Nothing on this site is a substitute for care from a licensed provider who knows your full health history. All opinions and content shared on this platform are my own and do not reflect the views or endorsements of my employer or the hospital where I am employed.

Scope of Practice and FDA: Per professional coaching guidelines, I may recommend over the counter (OTC) medications or supplements to support your wellness goals. However, I do not prescribe or recommend specific prescription medications. For prescription options, including GLP-1 tools, my role is to help you understand the available science so you can have an informed discussion with your licensed healthcare provider. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and medical treatments require professional oversight.

Trust and Transparency: I only recommend products I trust. Most are items I use personally, while others are shared based on my professional trust in the clinical standards of partners like Ellie MD. Some links are affiliate links or part of brand partnerships, which means I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting My GLP-1 Journey

Published on by J. Nicole, RNLeave a comment

🌟 So, you’ve decided to hop on the GLP-1 train? First of all, congrats! 🎉 It’s a wild ride, but trust me—the destination is SO worth it. If I could rewind and give myself some pointers from the future, these are the top three tips I’d share about protein, fiber, and supplements. Plus, stick around for how you can work with a pro (yours truly) who has been there, done that! 🚀

1. Getting Cozy with Protein 🍗

Okay, let’s talk protein. Before my GLP-1 adventure, protein was kind of like that kid in high school you never really noticed until they starred in the school play. 🎭 Turns out, it’s a major player! Here’s why:

  • Stay Strong: Protein is your BFF for maintaining muscle mass, which is mega important when your appetite’s taken a hike.
  • Balanced Meals Are a Vibe: Make sure each meal gets a sprinkle of chicken, fish, tofu, or legumes. (Bonus points if it’s delicious).
  • Track Like a Boss: Use apps to keep an eye on your protein intake. It’s easier than stalking your crush online. 👀

2. Fiber: The Unsung Hero of Your Diet 🍎

Fiber is like that reliable friend who always has snacks in their bag. 👜 Super helpful! Here’s what got me grooving with fiber:

  • Satiety Superstar: Fiber helps keep you full, reducing the likelihood of gnawing hunger pangs at 3 A.M.
  • Digestive Delight: Regular visits to the bathroom? Yes, please. Fiber makes that happen.
  • Whole Foods, Whole Heart: Embrace whole grains, veggies, and legumes. They’ve got your back!

3. Supplementing Like a Pro 💊

Supplements were a mystery to me at first—like algebra, but make it health. Here’s how I cracked the code:

  • Doctor’s Orders: Before popping any pills, chat with your healthcare provider. Safety first, always.
  • Tailor-Made Picks: Target supplements that suit your specific needs. Think vitamin D and omega-3s, but only if you need them.
  • No Skimping: Quality is king. Choose trusted brands so you’re not ingesting fairy dust. ✨

Let’s Get Personal: 1-on-1 Health Coaching With Yours Truly 💪 for everyone who signs up with EllieMD using my link

Why trust me with your journey? Well, before you ask…

  • Pro Qualifications: I’m a Registered Nurse with over 6 years of experience. I know my stuff, and your health is my top priority. 📚
  • Living Proof: I’ve personally lost over 45% of my heaviest weight through lifestyle changes and GLP-1 medications. 🏆 Yep, been there, done that, and ready to share all the secrets!
  • Customized Plans: I’ll craft a plan as unique as your fingerprint. It’ll fit your goals and lifestyle like your favorite pair of jeans.
  • Support Squad: Regular check-ins mean you’re never alone on this journey. We’ll tackle any hurdle together—likely with some motivational GIFs. 📈
  • Expert Tips: Arm yourself with the latest and greatest strategies to keep you on track and fabulous.

Ready to transform your GLP-1 journey into an adventure you’ll love? 🎈 Let’s chat about how I can support you every step of the way. Shoot me a message to find out more about my health coaching services, and let’s make magic! 💫

Professional Disclosure: I provide BS-free metabolic education as a registered nurse and health coach for women navigating PCOS, perimenopause, and stubborn weight loss. While I share evidence-based research and nurse-informed support, please remember that I am not your nurse. The content shared here is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not establish a provider-patient relationship. Nothing on this site is a substitute for care from a licensed provider who knows your full health history. All opinions and content shared on this platform are my own and do not reflect the views or endorsements of my employer or the hospital where I am employed.

Scope of Practice and FDA: Per professional coaching guidelines, I may recommend over the counter (OTC) medications or supplements to support your wellness goals. However, I do not prescribe or recommend specific prescription medications. For prescription options, including GLP-1 tools, my role is to help you understand the available science so you can have an informed discussion with your licensed healthcare provider. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and medical treatments require professional oversight.

Trust and Transparency: I only recommend products I trust. Most are items I use personally, while others are shared based on my professional trust in the clinical standards of partners like Ellie MD. Some links are affiliate links or part of brand partnerships, which means I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.