Five foods that ‘mimic’ Ozempic with natural benefits

There are five foods which naturally 'mimic' the effects of Ozempic, if a new study is to be believed.

Ozempic, along with a selection of other GLP-1 drugs, has skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years.

Numerous celebrities have publicly shared their own experiences while using the medication, originally made to treat those with diabetes, for weight loss purposes.

But while some, such as Meghan Trainor, have been successful with their journeys, others like Jeremy Clarkson and Amy Schumer haven't been as smooth sailing.

GLP-1 is a hormone released by the intestines in response to nutrients, helping to regulate metabolism in response to consumed nutrients such as fatty acids and glucose.

It is responsible for controlling hunger, even slowing the stomach by 'emptying and reacting to hypothalamic neurons', according to a 2025 study.

Ginger is one of the main foods which can 'mimic' GLP-1 drugs (Getty Stock Image)

While further research is needed to definitively say that these foods are replacements for medication like Ozempic, here are the five foods which are said to have properties that 'mimic' the GLP-1 drug.

Ginger

According to researchers from Heliopolis University and Al-Azhar University in Egypt, ginger and its chemical constituent gingerol could help the production of GLP-1, meaning that it reduces hyperglycemia in the body.

This health condition is synonymous with people who have diabetes or prediabetes, and consists of increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and even blurred vision.

Hyperglycemia can be caused by a lack of insulin, a high-carbohydrate diet, and/or stress.

The popular spice was found to reduce the condition in diabetic mice, as the study stated: “New research suggests that ginger and its chemical constituent gingerol may induce GLP-1 production, which in turn has a hypoglycemic impact, explaining why ginger has long been prescribed to diabetic patients.”

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a popular spice which is known for its ability to maintain stable blood sugar levels, as researchers noted that it can 'lower blood sugar and blood pressure levels' in Toxicology reports.

It can help to increase GLP-1 sensitivity or boost its release from the intestines, as the experts explained: “Isolated cinnamon components enhance insulin-dependent glucose metabolism, according to in vitro research.”

Just three grams of cinnamon can cause GLP-1 levels to jump in healthy people, though it should be noted that taking too much of it can prove toxic.

Berberine

This is a lesser-known food ingredient which is found in a number of plants, though it has been described as the nearest thing to 'natural Ozempic'.

According to a 2022 review of 18 studies, a berberine supplement resulted in reduced body weight, BMI, fasting blood glucose and LDL cholesterol.

It works by increasing insulin production by activating bitter taste receptors in the intestines, which decreases body weight and lipids, increasing GLP-1 in turn.

A daily cup of green tea could make all the difference, according to the study (Getty Stock Image)

Wheat

Wheat protein hydrolysate is a protein which is derived from wheat when broken down and it contains high amounts of amino acids and peptides, which can lower blood glucose.

It does this by releasing GLP-1, which can also help to reduce hyperglycemia according to past studies, say the scientists.

Fermented green tea

It's said that fermenting tea with a culture of bacteria and yeast, which can form kombucha, can make a drink which 'mimics' Ozempic. This is because of compounds that are found in green tea particularly, primarily epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), an antioxidant known for its inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties.

A 2018 study suggests that this can even stimulate GLP-1 release if taken with caffeine, after a study on mice.

A cup of green tea alone can enhance methods of treating diabetes, with a daily dose can help to stimulate characteristics.