Those who are struggling with weight understand how it feels not to be their best self. Obesity is a major cause of health and mental problems. However, with recent approvals of some weight loss medications, some are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
However, the question is, do they even work? How do these medications work, and are they a permanent solution? More importantly, are exercises and a good diet no longer important?
We will dispel one of those right now—no, they are not replacements for a good diet and healthy lifestyle. However, people who are unable to lose weight can use weight loss medication prescribed by a qualified doctor to see tangible results. Let’s dive deeper.
What Do Experts Say About Weight Loss Medications?
Alternative methods of weight loss, such as oral GLP-1 medications, have been shown to be effective. However, experts say not to rely solely on medication.
If you want to lose weight, you still need to make lifestyle changes. Lifestyle and dietary changes will give you lasting benefits. Besides, there are also some mild side effects.
They can include diarrhea, constipation, and nausea. This is why it is important also to consult a doctor when taking weight loss medication.
With medication, you can expect a 5% to 10% loss in body weight. However, in some cases, the results might be less than 5%. This is where licensed medical intervention will help.
What You Need to Know About GLP-1 Medications?
Essentially, GLP-1 medications lower blood sugar levels, which helps with weight loss. They are mostly used for people with Type 2 diabetes.
These medications help reduce blood sugar by mimicking a hormone. Specifically the glucagon-like peptide 1 hormone. When you eat food, your blood sugar levels rise.
GLP-1 medications help your body increase insulin production, which lowers blood sugar levels. Although these medications are great for treating Type 2 diabetes, some forms of GLP-1 agonists have also been approved for weight loss.
Are All GLP-1 Approved for Weight Loss?
Saxenda (liraglutide) GLP-1 has been approved for weight loss. It is injected twice daily and showed a 7% weight loss in patients. Others include Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide).
All three have been approved by the FDA. However, these are not oral GLP-1 formulations. Notable companies like Novo Nordisk and other smaller companies are working towards developing oral forms of GLP-1 formulations.
Who Should Take Weight Loss Medication?
It is important to understand that although these drugs have been approved, you should not just take them without consultation. GLP-1 medications are meant to be taken if you have failed to lose weight through diet and exercise.
Obesity also leads to other medical conditions like Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. If you have any one of these conditions, you might be prescribed GLP-1 medication.
However, we cannot stress this enough: you must consult a doctor first. These drugs are not only used to treat weight loss. And most certainly should not be taken for someone who just wants to lose a couple of pounds of weight.
There are some dangers to patients taking these medications on their own. Firstly, you might end up losing too much weight. Yes, this is a thing. You might not be including enough nutrients in your diet, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies.
This can lead to a myriad of other problems like poor wound healing, numbness, hair fall, gallbladder diseases, and more.
Will You Regain Weight If You Stop Taking Weight Loss Medication?
This is the question that bothers most people. Will you regain weight after you stop taking weight loss medication? Probably yes. Weight loss medication like GLP-1 increases your insulin production.
If you stop, your insulin production returns to previous levels. Additionally, you might have other conditions that stop your cells from responding to insulin.
This can cause you to gain back the weight you lost. For longer-term benefits, you cannot skip exercise and a good diet. In fact, a good doctor will not only prescribe weight loss medication.
They will give you a comprehensive plan. You might also be given a diet and exercise plan. Basically, it’s a complete healthy lifestyle plan along with medication.
You Still Need to Workout and Eat Well
Weight loss medications are not a substitution for a healthy lifestyle and exercise. Sometimes, patients receive prescriptions for weight loss medications. However, they are not advised to alter their lifestyle and dietary habits.
This is because primary care doctors are always properly trained in medications and obesity. Prescribed weight loss medication, a healthy diet, and a lifestyle are the perfect ways to achieve long-term results in a healthy and sustainable way.
You should still work out regularly and eat healthily. Eating well and exercising have many mental and physical benefits, and being healthy will improve your lifestyle.
Additionally, it promotes a healthier heart, improves your skin, improves sleep, and may also reduce the risk of cancer. You will feel better about yourself and be more confident too.
Speaking of feeling more confident, exercise does wonders for your psyche and physical health, too. Not only will you look and feel better, but you will also feel happier, have more energy, and be generally healthier.
Additionally, exercises help with brain function and memory, so you will be sharper and witty. Who does not want that?
Wrapping Up
Weight loss medications are effective, but they are not substitutes for a healthy diet and exercise.
However, for people who cannot lose weight with just diet and exercise, weight loss medications have shown promising results.
However, these medications are not meant to be taken without professional consultation. A licensed doctor will give you safe directions and will also tell you how to adjust your diet and lifestyle changes for the best results.
