Hi! After months of planning, I’m beyond excited to announce that registration for our 8-Week Wellness Experiment is officially LIVE!

This is the program I wish I had 5 years ago when I turned 50. I wanted to feel fit and healthy but had no idea where to start. I wasn’t sure who to trust when it came to food and fitness plans. And my current fitness routine wasn’t cutting it.

But everything changed after I did a 6-month wellness experiment designed by trainer Korey Rowe. I have more energy, better sleep, and am in the best shape of my life.

As I shared this wellness experience on social media, I kept hearing one word: Inspiring.

Now, it’s your turn to experience it! I’ve compiled everything from my time with Korey—the exact workouts, meal recipes, and nutrition plans—and packaged it into an 8-week program designed to help you totally transform your health and well-being.

Here’s what you’ll get:

• A personalized fitness plan

• Weekly nutrition and supplement plans

• Live Q&A with me and Korey Rowe

• Exclusive weekly video content and downloadable PDFs

• Access to a supportive community for accountability and motivation

Most importantly, I wanted to be sure that this program could be for everyone—which is why it’s only $59 (just $1 a day!). Registration has just opened but spots are going—fast.

Ready to join us? Click the link below!

⚠️ Important Note: To ensure everyone gets the attention they deserve in our community and Q&As, we may need to limit the number of participants.

TODAY’S DOSE OF HONESTY

What’s Next For Ozempic (And Other Weight-Loss Medications)

In June 2021, the FDA officially approved semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus). While GLP-1 medications have been around since 2005 to treat diabetes, they’re now considered the most effective weight-loss drugs available—no contest. 

Just how effective are they? In clinical trials, people with Type 2 Diabetes on Ozempic lost on average 13-15 pounds in the first 10 months. When combined with diet and exercise, these medications help people with obesity (or other weight-related health risks) see impressive results. 

This raises the question: What if semaglutide could prevent weight gain before it starts? As a board-certified obesity medicine specialist, I’m hedging my bet that the next phase of GLP-1 research will focus on one thing: Prevention. 

Weight Gain Prevention: A New Chapter for GLP-1s?

Why does preventing weight gain matter? 

Because most age-related health issues—including heart disease, cancer, joint deterioration, cognitive decline, and even mental health conditions—are linked to midlife weight gain. 

If we could prevent this gain, we might reduce the risk of these conditions significantly. This is especially pertinent to women—when we hit menopause, we experience hormonal shifts that lead to increased abdominal fat and muscle loss. 

The result? Many women gain over 10 pounds during menopause—even 1.5 pounds per year is common! Since this weight gain is driven by hormonal, metabolic, and behavioral factors (not just diet and exercise) medications may play a critical role in prevention.

Could GLP-1s Be Used for Prevention?

The short answer? Maybe. 

The long answer: Lower doses, intermittent dosing, or off-label use of GLP-1s may help prevent weight gain in non-obese individuals at risk for age-related weight changes, but until more studies are done, this remains an unapproved use. 

If you’re considering GLP-1s for weight gain prevention, here are important questions to ask your doctor: 

1. What are the risks of taking these medications?

2. What are the risks of NOT taking them?

3. What are the benefits of using them?

4. What are the benefits of NOT using them?

Ultimately, every health decision carries risks, including doing nothing. The key is weighing the risk of side effects against the risk of weight-related diseases like heart disease or cancer. 

Are GLP-1 Medications Addictive?

I’ve heard from plenty of people who are worried that GLP-1s might be addictive. 

This is a fair concern! Older weight-loss drugs, such as phentermine, had the potential for abuse or dependence since they were stimulants that affected the central nervous system (similar to amphetamines). 

But GLP-1s are a little different. While GLP-1 receptor agonists (like semaglutide) do interact with the brain’s reward system, reducing cravings and food-related dopamine signaling, they do not strongly activate the reward center in a way that leads to addiction. In fact, they are being studied for potential anti-addictive properties, helping reduce cravings for substances like alcohol and nicotine.

Bottom Line

GLP-1s are still in their early days. The science is continuing to evolve, and we’re not sure how (or if) it’ll play a role in preventing weight gain. But what we do know? It’s that untreated obesity and weight gain carry significant health risks.

With that being said: If you’re concerned about weight management, reach out to a board-certified obesity specialist (such as obesitycareproviders.com or abom.org). The future of weight management isn’t just about shedding pounds: It's preventing them from piling on in the first place. 

SYMPTOM SOLUTIONS

The Cold and Flu Viral Remedy You Shouldn’t Skip

Last week, my husband and I were in London on a business trip (yes, Ajenda is expanding to the UK!) when he came down with a mild upper respiratory virus. We’re talking dry cough, aches, pains, and a fever of 100.1. All the classic cold symptoms. 

The first thing I did was a Covid test, so if he was positive he could start Paxlovid. Thankfully, he was negative. And because his symptoms were mild (meaning it likely wasn’t influenza either!) the next thing his doctor wife did for him was order him some chicken soup.

Why? Because there is real scientific evidence that chicken soup helps with viral illnesses such as the common cold and flu!

But how, exactly? Here are the several biological mechanisms through which chicken soup may provide some (much-needed) relief: 

Anti-Inflammatory Effects: 

A 2000 study by Dr. Stephen Rennard (University of Nebraska) found that chicken soup may help reduce neutrophil migration. 

“Neutophil what?” Neutrophils are white blood cells that play a key role in inflammation and mucus production in respiratory infections—AKA why your nose feels so clogged. (The worst.) 

By reducing neutrophil activity, chicken soup may help decrease nasal congestion, curb mucus overproduction, and soothe throat irritation. We love to see it. 

Mucus Clearance & Nasal Hydration: 

The best way to eat chicken soup? Piping hot. And that heat does more than enhance flavor—it helps loosen mucus and keeps airways hydrated.  

That’s because warm fluids promote nasal mucus flow, improving clearance and relieving congestion. So when your mom (or grandma) suggested tea or a hot toddy when you were sick, they were onto something!

Immune System Support: 

The ingredients in this power-packed soup—hearty broth, carrots, celery, melt-in-your-mouth chicken—deliver essential amino acids and nutrients that give your immune system the fuel it needs to recover. 

• Zoom In: When you cook chicken, it releases the amino acid cysteine. This compound is chemically similar to N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and is used as a mucus thinner. And those bones used in the broth? They’re full of zinc—a well-known immune-boosting mineral that helps white blood cells fight off infections.  

Hydration & Electrolyte Balance: 

If the cold or flu becomes severe (let’s hope it doesn’t!) it can lead to intense dehydration from fever, sweating, and increased mucus production. 

Fortunately, chicken soup can help. Its broth is brimming with fluids and electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, to maintain your hydration and energy levels. 

Psychological & Comfort Benefits: 

There’s nothing quite like that first sip of steamy soup. It soothes the throat, warms you up, and delivers an instant sense of comfort. 

Part of this magic is the placebo effect: If you believe chicken soup helps, those positive expectations can actually make you feel better. This is a real phenomenon, not some ‘woo-woo’ hocus pocus!

Supported Gut Health

Is simmering chicken broth for 12-24 hours worth it? Absolutely. Slow cooking lets the bones release collagen and gelatin, which support gut health by strengthening the intestinal lining—a key player in immune function. 

Of course, chicken soup is not a cure. But it does have real anti-inflammatory, mucus-thinning, and hydrating effects that can alleviate those pesky symptoms and help you recover from viral infections—fast. A time-tested (and delicious) remedy backed by science? Yes, please. 

P.S. My husband was a very good patient and is back to his super high-energy self!

COMMUNITY

Postbiotics: The New Kid on The Block Health Gut

Think of your gut as a garden. While it can survive on its own, it flourishes with good seeds and rich fertilizer—just like how your gut thrives when probiotics and prebiotics work together. 

• Probiotics = Seeds: These live, friendly bacteria (e.g. Lactobacillus and Bacillobacter) lay the groundwork for gut health. They support digestion, fight off harmful bacteria, and boost immunity.  

• Prebiotics = Fertilizer: Prebiotics (e.g. Galacto-oligosaccharides and Inulin) are fiber-rich foods that feed probiotics to help them grow and multiply. 

But have you heard of the third player of the gut microbiome garden?

The Third Key Member: Postbiotics 

Introducing: Postbiotics. As the probiotics (seeds) consume the prebiotics (fertilizer) they produce postbiotics—the “waste product” of fermentation. 

But postbiotics are far from wasteful. These bioactive compounds, which include enzymes, peptides, vitamins, and short-chain fatty acids (i.e. SCFAs), contribute to gut health and overall well-being. They: 

• Enhance digestion and nutrient absorption   

• Maintain a balanced gut microbiome community 

• Reduce inflammation and boost the immune system 

• Strengthen the gut barrier to prevent harmful bacteria from entering

A Word of Caution 

If you’ve perused through your local supplement aisle lately, you may have seen shelves of postbiotic pills promising over-the-moon health benefits and pinch-me miracle cures. 

But here’s a reality check: Research on postbiotics is still in its infancy. 

While there’s potential, scientists are still uncovering how these bacterial byproducts affect our metabolism and immune system. 

Bottom line? Postbiotics are not ready for prime time in terms of their potential as a supplement. In other words, we don't know how supplements of these fragments behave differently than those made naturally in our gut! 

But, don't despair! There is plenty you can do right now that’s low or zero risk and very high benefit for your gut health.  

Here's my prescription:

1. Eat More Prebiotic Foods (Fuel for Probiotics)

A good source of prebiotics includes garlic, onions, leeks, bananas, asparagus, chicory root, apples, oats, flaxseeds, and sweet potatoes. 

2. Consume Fermented Foods (Rich in Probiotics)

Probiotic-rich foods increase the gut bacteria responsible for postbiotic production. This includes yogurt (with live cultures), kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, and kombucha. 

3. Increase Fiber Intake (Encourages Fermentation) 

I recommend you strive for 30+ grams per day of fiber. Fiber is crucial for the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), a key type of postbiotic.

The best fiber sources:

• Vegetables (broccoli, spinach, carrots)

• Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, barley)

• Legumes (chickpeas, lentils, black beans)

• Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds)

4. Get Enough Polyphenols (Support Beneficial Bacteria)

Polyphenols are plant compounds that help gut bacteria produce beneficial postbiotics. Find them in green tea, dark chocolate (85%+ cacao), berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries), olive oil, and red wine (but only occasionally!). 

5. Stay Hydrated

Water supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome, aiding postbiotic production. Generally, women need about 2.7 liters (or 11.5 cups) of water per day. 

6. Reduce Ultra-Processed Foods & Artificial Sweeteners

Processed foods and additives (like aspartame) can harm good bacteria and reduce postbiotic production. 

7. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity has been shown to increase SCFAs and enhance gut microbiota diversity.

8. Prioritize Sleep & Manage Stress

Poor sleep and high-stress levels negatively impact gut bacteria, leading to lower postbiotic production.

In short? A healthy gut comes from a well-balanced diet, plenty of water, exercise, sleep, and a low-stress lifestyle. Do all those things to “tend” to your garden, and in time, you’ll reap a harvest of better digestion, stronger immunity, and overall health. Happy harvesting! 

ABOUT DR. JEN

In her former roles as chief medical correspondent for ABC News and on-air cohost of “GMA3: What You Need to Know,” Dr. Jennifer Ashton—”Dr. Jen”—has shared the latest health news and information with millions of viewers nationwide. As an OB-GYN, nutritionist, and board-certified obesity medicine specialist, she is passionate about promoting optimal health for “the whole woman.” She has authored several books, including the national best-seller, The Self-Care Solution: A Year of Becoming Happier, Healthier & Fitter—One Month at a Time. And she has gone through menopause…

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