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PADMA SHANKAR CORAM

Senior Editor

She has travelled extensively, learning a variety of healing wellness techniques from different masters around the world. Padma has lived with monks in both the Himalayas and Japan and worked with Mother Theresa and Deepak Chopra. Padma uses her different therapies such as Meditation, Energy Alignment, Hoppnopono, Emotional Freedom Technique, Spiritual Card Reading, Mantras, Colour and Vibrational Therapy to attain life-changing results. She also hosts workshops on positive relationships, prosperity, releasing pain and hurt, manifesting desires as well as individual bespoke sessions. Her motto is ‘YES YOU CAN’ whatever the issue.

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FACT CHECKED BY KASSANDRA DARILI

BSC, MSC, DIP Psych, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist

Kassandra is a University of London trained Psychologist with a BSc (Psychology) from Goldsmiths College, an MSc (Child Psychology and Development) from the Institute of Education and a Diploma (Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy) from UCL Medical School.

Dolores Catania’s Weight Loss With Ozempic/Mounjaro Explained

Dolores Catania’s Weight Loss Journey

The “Real Housewives of New Jersey” Star’s Approach

Dolores Catania, a cast member on Bravo’s “Real Housewives of New Jersey,” has been open about her weight loss journey, crediting Ozempic and Mounjaro, medications initially designed for type 2 diabetes, as key factors in her success. These drugs work by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite, leading to reduced calorie intake.

Catania’s approach to weight loss extends beyond medication. She emphasizes the importance of incorporating healthy eating habits and regular exercise into her lifestyle. While she acknowledges the medications have been helpful, she stresses that they are not a magic bullet and require commitment to a holistic wellness plan.

Catania has shared details about her diet and fitness routine, advocating for portion control, balanced meals, and incorporating activities like walking and strength training into her weekly schedule. Her openness about her journey has resonated with fans who admire her honesty and dedication to self-improvement.

It’s important to note that Ozempic and Mounjaro are prescription medications and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Catania’s experience demonstrates that these medications can be effective for weight management when combined with lifestyle changes, but they are not suitable for everyone.

Ozempic and Mounjaro: Understanding the Medications

Dolores Catania, a prominent cast member on Bravo’s “Real Housewives of New Jersey,” has been candid about her weight loss journey, revealing that she utilizes medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro to help her achieve her goals. These medications have gained considerable attention for their efficacy in managing both type 2 diabetes and weight loss.

Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) belong to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications mimic the action of a hormone naturally produced by the body, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite.

By activating GLP-1 receptors, Ozempic and Mounjaro stimulate insulin release when blood sugar is high, helping to control blood sugar levels. Additionally, they slow down gastric emptying, making you feel fuller for longer and reducing overall calorie intake.

The weight loss benefits of these medications stem from this dual action – improved blood sugar control and appetite suppression. Studies have shown that patients using Ozempic or Mounjaro can experience significant weight reduction, often exceeding 10% of their initial body weight.

However, it’s essential to note that these medications are not intended solely for weight loss. They are primarily prescribed for treating type 2 diabetes and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Potential side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and headache.

The decision to use Ozempic or Mounjaro should be made in consultation with a doctor, who will consider individual medical history, weight loss goals, and potential risks and benefits.

Scientific Evidence and Potential Side Effects

How Ozempic and Mounjaro Work with the Body

Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are medications initially designed to treat type 2 diabetes. Both belong to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These medications work by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone in the body that regulates blood sugar levels, appetite, and gastric emptying.

Scientific evidence has shown that these medications can be effective for weight loss in individuals with obesity or overweight. Studies have demonstrated significant reductions in body weight, often exceeding 10%, in participants taking Ozempic or Mounjaro compared to those on a placebo.

Ozempic and Mounjaro achieve weight loss primarily by influencing several key bodily processes:

  • Appetite Suppression: GLP-1 agonists act on the brain, specifically the hypothalamus, which is involved in regulating hunger and satiety. They increase feelings of fullness after meals, reducing overall food intake.
  • Slowed Gastric Emptying: These medications delay the rate at which food empties from the stomach into the small intestine. This extended feeling of fullness further contributes to appetite control and reduces calorie consumption.
  • Improved Insulin Sensitivity: GLP-1 agonists enhance the body’s response to insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. Improved insulin sensitivity helps regulate glucose metabolism and can contribute to weight management.

While generally considered safe for most individuals, Ozempic and Mounjaro can have potential side effects. Common side effects include:

  • Nausea:** Often experienced early in treatment, nausea usually subsides as the body adjusts to the medication.
  • Vomiting:**
  • Diarrhea:**
  • Constipation:**
  • Headache:**
  • Fatigue:**

More serious side effects, though less common, include pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) and gallbladder disease. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional about potential risks and benefits before starting either medication.

It’s important to note that these medications are not intended for long-term weight management alone. Lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes and regular exercise, are essential components of sustainable weight loss and overall health improvement.

Considerations for Weight Management Beyond Medication

Scientific evidence supports the efficacy of medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight management in individuals with obesity or overweight who have at least one weight-related comorbidity. These drugs, initially developed to treat type 2 diabetes, work by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1, which regulates appetite, slows gastric emptying, and promotes insulin release.

Clinical trials have demonstrated significant weight loss in patients taking these medications compared to placebo groups. Studies suggest that Ozempic can lead to an average weight reduction of 15-20%, while Mounjaro may result in even greater reductions, approaching 25%. The exact mechanisms behind their effectiveness are multifaceted, involving a combination of appetite suppression, altered satiety signals, and improved glucose metabolism.

While these medications can be effective tools for weight management, it’s crucial to acknowledge potential side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, often experienced early in treatment and usually diminishing over time.

More serious, but less frequent, side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and thyroid tumors. Individuals with a history of these conditions should exercise caution and discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider.

Beyond medication, sustainable weight management encompasses a holistic approach that prioritizes lifestyle modifications.

These modifications can have a profound impact on long-term weight control and overall health:

  • Dietary Changes:** Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains is essential. Reducing calorie intake, limiting processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats can contribute to sustainable weight loss.

  • Regular Physical Activity: Incorporating regular exercise into your routine is crucial for both weight management and overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities twice a week.

  • Behavioral Therapy:** Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be helpful in addressing emotional eating patterns, developing healthier coping mechanisms for stress, and promoting long-term lifestyle changes.

  • Sleep Hygiene:** Prioritizing adequate sleep is essential for regulating appetite hormones and supporting overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.


Weight management is a complex journey that requires personalized strategies and ongoing commitment. While medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro can be effective tools, they should be used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications and under the guidance of a healthcare professional to maximize benefits and minimize potential risks.