The Nurses’s RX no. 8: I used to dread summer…

The Nurse's RX newsletter header - Everything your doctor didn't have time to explain

Okay sooooo……

Summer is fast approaching.

And a couple years ago? I dreaded it.

There were summers I didn’t even own a bathing suit that fit.
I refused to buy shorts.
I lived in long dresses and leggings because they felt safer.

Pool invites stressed me out.
Beach trips felt exposing.
Photos? Absolutely not.

I kept telling myself I just needed more discipline.
More willpower.
Another fad diet.

So I counted calories.
Tracked every bite.
Tried whatever new fad diet was trending that month.

And every time it didn’t “stick,” I blamed myself.

What actually changed everything?

started GLP-1 therapy under medical supervision.

And I stopped dieting.

I stopped counting calories.
I stopped chasing fad diets.
I started eating intelligently.

Protein first.
Fiber daily.
Balanced meals.
No extremes.

The food noise quieted.
My body finally had metabolic support.
And everything else began to fall into place.

This past summer?

I had a whole drawer of bathing suits.
An actual drawer.
And yes… a whole drawer of shorts too.

That didn’t come from trying harder.
It came from upgrading the strategy.

If you’re exhausted from white-knuckling another summer, maybe it’s time to stop fighting your biology.

Summer is coming either way. ☀️
You get to decide how you walk into it.

You can BOOK A FREE 15 MIN CALL WITH ME to ask questions and talk through your thoughts and concerns. Or, if you already know you’re ready, you can GET STARTED THROUGH MY SITE now.

XOXO,
NIKI, RN

PCOS. Perimenopause. Metabolic health. The real stuff. Not just “eat less, move more.”

Not sure where to start? Take my free quiz and I’ll send you a custom plan.
WHAT’S RIGHT FOR MY BODY?
P.S. Missed the previous editions of The Nurse’s RX?
↓ Catch up here ↓
READ PAST EDITIONS

↓ LET’S CONNECT ↓


Let’s be clear about who I am (and who I’m not)

I’m a registered nurse and health coach who shares real, BS-free information about metabolic health, PCOS, perimenopause, and weight loss, because y’all deserve better than vague wellness fluff. But here’s what I need you to know: I am not YOUR nurse. Everything I share here is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice, it’s not a diagnosis, and it doesn’t create a provider-patient relationship between us. Nothing here replaces the care of a licensed provider who actually knows your full health history. The opinions and content here are my own and do not reflect the views of my employer or the hospital where I work.

Scope of practice

As a nurse health coach, I can recommend over-the-counter products and supplements that may support your wellness goals. I don’t prescribe specific prescription medications. When it comes to GLP-1s and peptides, what I can do is talk about the science, what’s available, and what may be beneficial, so you can have an informed conversation with your licensed medical provider. The decision about what’s right for your body always belongs to you and your provider. Always consult your licensed provider before starting any prescription treatment. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Transparency

I only recommend things I actually trust. Most are products I personally use, some are from partners whose clinical standards I believe in. I will always let you know when it’s something I haven’t tried personally. Some links in this email 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.

Results + Testimonials

Any testimonials or results shared here reflect individual experiences only. Results are not guaranteed and will vary based on individual circumstances.

Read the full fine print at nicoleinscrubs.com/disclosure

GLP-1 Therapy: The Skinny (Pun Intended) on What You Need to Know

Alright, let’s talk about GLP-1 therapy—aka the little injection that could! If you’ve been battling cravings, feeling like a human garbage disposal for snacks, or just trying to get your metabolism to cooperate for once, then this might just be the tool you need.

But before you start dreaming of effortlessly shedding pounds while binging Netflix (sorry, it doesn’t work quite like that), let’s break down what GLP-1 therapy is—and more importantly, what it isn’t. Buckle up, because we’re about to get real, and a little sassy.


What Exactly Is GLP-1 Therapy?

Think of GLP-1 therapy as your metabolism’s new BFF—the one who tells you to stop texting your toxic ex (aka late-night snacks) and actually encourages you to make better choices.

Scientifically speaking, GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps control appetite, slow digestion, and balance blood sugar. In non-science terms? It helps you feel full longer, reduce cravings, and stop treating your fridge like it’s the last meal on Earth.

Some of the big names in the GLP-1 world include:

  • Ozempic® – Originally for diabetes, but got famous for weight loss real quick.
  • Wegovy® – Ozempic’s cool cousin that’s officially approved for weight loss.
  • Zepbound™ – The new kid on the block making waves in the weight-loss world.
  • Mounjaro® – The overachiever that helps with both diabetes and weight loss.

These medications don’t just shrink your appetite—they help with blood sugar control, metabolic health, and kicking emotional eating to the curb.

What glp-1 therapy does and does not do.
What glp-1 therapy does and does not do.

GLP-1 Therapy: The Perks (AKA Why Everyone’s Talking About It)

✅ 1. Bye-Bye, Cravings!

Ever stare at a bag of chips and think, “Just one…” and then suddenly, it’s empty? Yeah, GLP-1 therapy helps prevent that. It regulates appetite signals in your brain, so your stomach doesn’t convince you that an entire pizza is a “light snack.”

✅ 2. You’ll Actually Feel Full

GLP-1 slows digestion, so your meals stick around longer instead of disappearing like a magic trick. This means you won’t be rummaging through the pantry an hour after dinner like a snack detective.

✅ 3. Helps You Eat Like a Normal Human

Portion control? Mindful eating? Who is she? GLP-1 therapy makes it easier to eat like someone who actually respects their hunger cues, rather than someone at an all-you-can-eat buffet.

✅ 4. Metabolism’s Glow-Up

Not only does this magic shot help with weight loss, but it also balances blood sugar and improves metabolic function. Translation: your body stops treating carbs like a sworn enemy and starts burning fuel more efficiently.

✅ 5. Great for PCOS & Insulin Resistance

If you have PCOS, you know the struggle of hormonal weight gain and sugar cravings. GLP-1 therapy helps regulate insulin, making it easier to lose weight and keep it off without feeling like you’re fighting against your own body.


What GLP-1 Therapy Isn’t

Now, before you start celebrating, let’s clear up some misconceptions because this isn’t some “eat-whatever-you-want-and-wake-up-skinny” situation (tragic, I know).

❌ 1. A Quick Fix (Sorry, Y’all)

If you’re expecting to wake up looking like a Kardashian overnight, I have some bad news. GLP-1 therapy takes time. It’s like a slow-burn romance—not a Vegas elopement.

❌ 2. A Free Pass to Eat Like a Raccoon

Yes, this med helps control cravings, but that doesn’t mean you should test its limits by living off donuts and soda. It works best when paired with actual nutrients (I know, bummer).

❌ 3. A One-Size-Fits-All Solution

Your BFF might drop 20 lbs in a month, while you see the scale move at a turtle’s pace. Bodies are weird and work at their own pace—so don’t compare your journey to someone else’s highlight reel.

❌ 4. For Everyone

Not everyone is a candidate. If you have certain medical conditions (like thyroid cancer history or pancreatitis), this might not be for you. That’s why you should talk to a provider before diving in (shoutout to IVIM’s free consultations!).


How to Actually Make GLP-1 Therapy Work for You

So you’ve got the shot, and now you’re waiting for the magic to happen. Here’s how to boost your results and make sure you’re setting yourself up for success:

1. Prioritize Protein & Fiber (Trust Me, Your Body Will Thank You)

Since GLP-1 slows digestion, protein, and fiber will keep you extra satisfied. Think chicken, eggs, beans, and leafy greens—not just a sad granola bar.

2. Hydration = Non-Negotiable

You don’t want to be that person complaining about constipation. Drink your water, add electrolytes, or grab a HydroJug (NicoleInScrubs for a discount!).

3. Move Your Body (Even a Little Counts!)

No, you don’t have to become a gym rat, but walking, yoga, or even dancing in your kitchen helps. Your body likes to move—treat it well!

4. Celebrate All Wins (Not Just the Scale)

The scale is not the only measurement of progress. Celebrate:
Clothes fitting better
More energy & confidence
Balanced blood sugar levels
Feeling in control of food choices

If your jeans fit without you having to do a full-on squat routine to get them on, that’s a win, babe.


So, Is GLP-1 Therapy for You?

If you’ve tried all the things—keto, calorie counting, intermittent fasting, sacrificing your soul to the weight loss gods—and still struggle with cravings and metabolic issues, GLP-1 therapy might be your answer.

That said, it’s not a magic wand. You still need to support it with healthy habits, patience, and some common sense. But when used correctly, it can be a game-changer for weight loss, PCOS, and metabolic health.

Thinking about trying it? Chat with a provider to see if you’re a good candidate!

✨ Have you started GLP-1 therapy or thinking about it? Drop your thoughts below—I’d love to hear your experience! ⬇️


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.