“One of the biggest problems I see is that people are chasing a short-term fix, without looking at the bigger picture of what health really means. I want women to understand that what you eat, how you sleep, how you manage stress, the people you surround yourself with—all of that contributes to your health and happiness. And that’s worth investing in.”

— Nicola Farndell

“We’re chasing these quick fixes without understanding the long-term cost. These drugs weren’t designed for aesthetic weight loss—they were for diabetes and obesity. When used incorrectly, they can disrupt menstrual cycles, fertility, thyroid health, and even increase the risk of cancers. We have to start asking what the real price of thinness is.”

— Helen Perks

In this episode of Women’s Health Unwrapped:

Today we’re diving into something that’s very topical right now, and a subject I think it’s critical to share on my platform.

I’m joined by Helen Perks, registered nutritional therapist and nutrition and lifestyle medicine practitioner, to delve into the controversial topic of weight loss drugs, particularly GLP-1 injectables like Ozempic and Mounjaro. We discuss the origins of these medications, and unpack the risks, side effects, and long-term impact these drugs can have—especially for midlife women navigating perimenopause and hormonal change.

Our conversation emphasises the importance of a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, advocating for education and addressing root causes of unhealthy habits, and the importance of a personalised approach to wellness. We explore the impact of movement, environment, and community on health, the dangers of easy access to weight loss drugs, and the need for education and support, especially during midlife changes such as menopause.

If you’ve ever felt tempted by quick fixes or wondered if these injections are worth the risk, this episode is a must-listen. Let Helen and Nicola help you shift focus from aesthetics to longevity, from dieting to nourishing, and from shame to empowerment.

The key highlights from our conversation are:

What GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro actually do in the body.
The alarming ease with which women are accessing them.
The risks taking these drugs pose to overall and long-term health and wellbeing.
Why weight loss should be managed under strict medical supervision, especially in relation to the prescribing of these weight loss injectables.
The societal pressures that influence women's obsession with weight loss.
Rapid weight loss is not a healthy goal.
How optimising health involves more than just weight management and your size.
Addressing root causes of eating habits is essential.
Education about health and nutrition is crucial for long-term wellness.
Acceptance of body changes during menopause is important.
Stress management is key to maintaining a healthy weight.

About Helen Perks:

Helen Perks is a health and wellness strategist, registered nutritional therapist, and nutrition and lifestyle medicine practitioner with 12 years of clinical experience. Holding a BSc in Nutritional Medicine and MSc-level training with the Institute for Functional Medicine, she specialises in uncovering and addressing the root causes of health issues for lasting results.

Helen is passionate about empowering women to take back control of their hormones. After experiencing three miscarriages, one nearly fatal, and battling 17 years of M.E., she understands the frustration of being let down by the healthcare system. Her father's delayed cancer diagnosis further reinforced her commitment to bridging the gap between functional and lifestyle medicine and traditional NHS pathways. Now, midway through her cancer studies, she is deepening her expertise to better support clients navigating cancer prevention, treatment, and recovery.

With a 100% success rate in securing critical tests and referrals for clients, Helen’s work saves time, reduces costs, and quickly pinpoints underlying health concerns. Her registered trademark RESPECT® model of health and wellbeing delivers rapid and sustainable results, helping clients reclaim their health with minimal disruption to their lives.

Connect with Helen:

Ready to ditch dieting?

But struggling to navigate menopause weight gain?

In my FREE menopause guide I share 10 proven tips to help you build healthier habits, including ones to improve what you eat to shift away from a culture of dieting, and to build a more supportive and compassionate mindset - you deserve to love your body.

Download my free guide right now:

‘10 Ways to Feel Good Again: Your Perimenopausal Revival Guide’

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Women’s Health Unwrapped

Episode 131:

The truth about weight loss injections: What every midlife woman should know