By Teresa Maiorano, Fertility Dietitian | Live and Love Nutrition

Ozempic diet & Fertility - What you need to know

Ozempic diet

Ozempic and hence the ozempic diet – is everywhere—from celebrity interviews to social media transformations. Originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes, this injectable medication (and others like it, including Wegovy and Mounjaro) is now being widely used for weight loss. But if you’re trying to conceive, there’s one big question:

What does Ozempic mean for your fertility?

As a fertility dietitian, I’m seeing more clients ask about GLP-1 medications and how they might affect hormone balance, ovulation, and reproductive health. The connection? It’s not just about weight—it’s also about your gut health and hormonal function.

Let’s explore what Ozempic means for fertility and what you really need to know before using it on your trying-to-conceive journey.

What Is Ozempic and How Does It Work?

Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Once you take Ozempic, your diet drastically changes. Because it works by mimicking a natural hormone in your body (GLP-1), its impacts are significant. The ozempic diet includes:

  • a reduced appetite

  • Slowed down digestion

  • Improved insulin sensitivity

  • Improved regulation of blood sugar

These effects often lead to rapid weight loss, which is why Ozempic and similar GLP-1 drugs are now popular off-label options for weight management.

Ozempic and Fertility: The Connection

So how does Ozempic affect fertility? Here’s what research—and clinical experience—are starting to reveal:

1. Weight Loss and Ovulation

In individuals with PCOS or insulin resistance, weight loss can improve ovulation and hormone balance. This is where Ozempic may appear helpful.

But:

  • Rapid or excessive weight loss may suppress ovulation in some women.

  • Significant calorie restriction can disrupt your menstrual cycle.

2. Hormonal Side Effects

While GLP-1 drugs affect insulin (a hormone), they may indirectly influence estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones, all of which are essential for a healthy menstrual cycle and successful conception.

3. Gut Health Disruption

GLP-1 drugs slow gut motility and may alter the gut microbiome. Common side effects include:

  • Bloating

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea or constipation

Since gut health is closely linked to hormone detoxification, estrogen balance, and inflammation, this disruption can negatively impact fertility over time.

4. Nutrient Deficiencies

Reduced appetite and food intake on Ozempic can lead to deficiencies in fertility-critical nutrients like:

  • Folate

  • Iron

  • Omega-3s

  • Zinc

  • B-vitamins

Fertility boosting recipes e-book
Fertility boosting recipes e-book

Is Ozempic Safe While Trying to Conceive?

Currently, Ozempic is not recommended during pregnancy or while actively trying to conceive.
The FDA and Health Canada advises discontinuing semaglutide at least two months before conception due to its long half-life and potential unknown effects on early fetal development.

Important: If you’re using Ozempic or Wegovy for weight loss and planning pregnancy soon, consult your fertility team to develop a safe transition strategy.

Fertility Nutrition Tips That Support Gut & Hormone Health:

Whether you’re coming off Ozempic, struggling with the ozempic diet or looking for a more holistic path, focusing on gut health, blood sugar balance, and hormone support is one of the best ways to boost fertility naturally.

1. Eat Fiber Every Day

  • Ground flaxseeds, leafy greens, oats, and lentils

  • Fiber supports estrogen detox and feeds healthy gut bacteria

2. Include Fermented Foods

  • Sauerkraut, kefir, miso, yogurt, and tempeh

  • These foods help restore microbiome balance disrupted by slow digestion

3. Stabilize Blood Sugar with Balanced Meals

  • Combine protein, healthy fats, and slow-digesting carbs

  • Prevents insulin spikes and supports ovulatory function

4. Prioritize Omega-3s

  • Wild salmon, sardines, chia seeds, and walnuts

  • Omega-3s reduce inflammation and support egg quality

5. Stay Hydrated

  • Aim for 2–3 litres of water per day, especially if you’re on Ozempic

  • Proper hydration supports digestion, hormone transport, and helps manage common side effects like constipation or nausea

Bottom Line: What You Need to Know

  • Ozempic may benefit fertility in certain situations (like PCOS + insulin resistance), but it’s not risk-free.

  • It’s not recommended for use while trying to conceive or during pregnancy.

  • Gut health, nutrient balance, and hormone support remain essential—with or without medication.

  • If you’re considering coming off Ozempic to start trying for a baby, work with a qualified team (dietitian, doctor, naturopath, etc.) to safely transition your body and prepare your fertility.

If You’re Considering Ozempic…

If you’re thinking about using Ozempic as part of your fertility journey—or have already started—it’s essential to weigh both the benefits and potential risks. While it can support weight loss and improve insulin resistance in some individuals, it may also disrupt ovulation, gut health, and nutrient status—all of which are key to healthy conception.

If you’re actively trying to conceive or plan to in the near future, Ozempic may not be the right fit. It’s not approved for use during pregnancy, and current guidelines recommend stopping the medication at least two months before conception.

👉 Before starting or stopping Ozempic, speak with a qualified fertility-informed healthcare provider who can help you:

  • Assess your unique hormonal and metabolic needs

  • Create a personalized fertility nutrition plan

  • Support you through a safe and strategic transition off the medication, if needed

Your fertility is too important for guesswork—and you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Ready to Support Your Fertility—With or Without Ozempic?

If you're feeling unsure about how Ozempic fits into your fertility journey, you're not alone. Let’s create a personalized plan that supports your hormones, gut health, and reproductive goals—naturally and confidently. 👉 Book a free 15-minute discovery call today to get expert guidance and clarity on your next step. Because your fertility deserves more than a one-size-fits-all solution—it deserves a strategy that’s rooted in nourishment, balance, and support.
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