Weight loss medication
You will likely be aware of the fairly new weight loss medication that’s out there. More specifically, the weight loss injections (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Saxenda, Victoza). These are based on a substance that mimics the hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like-peptide-1), which is naturally produced in the body and has effects on the regulation of blood sugar, energy balance and appetite. GLP-1 based medication is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and other metabolic conditions but recently gained popularity for its effects on body weight.
How do they work? The main mechanism by which these injections can reduce body weight is suppressing your appetite, hunger and cravings and increasing the feeling of fullness. These factors will result in you eating less and therefore getting less calories in. If your calories are reduced below your maintenance calories, you will lose weight. In addition to this, it might alter your food preferences, and you might favour foods with less fat.
Are there any side effects? As any medication, GLP-1 medications can have some side effects that may or may not be present. The most common ones are gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhoea or constipation. In rare cases, some other side effects affecting your pancreas, gallbladder or vision may occur.
What to consider before taking them? Although it may seem like a quick and convenient solution to weight struggles, it is not a magic fix for everyone. This type of weight loss medication is prescribed together with a lifestyle intervention encompassing nutrition, exercise and psychology of behaviour change. That is because when you come off the medication, the effects on appetite, hunger and feeling of fullness will disappear and if you haven’t changed your habits, you are more than likely to put the weight back on. So yes, the medication can make weight loss easier, but you will still need to put the work in and change your habits for the better in the long run. Also, because you might be consuming a low-calorie diet while on the drug, you might experience muscle loss and fall short on some essential vitamins and minerals. It is therefore important to eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and protein even when taking Ozempic or any other similar drug.
What’s the verdict? It might be helpful for some people who have certain medical conditions where substantial weight loss is needed to stabilise those. However, it still needs to go hand in hand with the right diet and exercise regime.
Always speak to your doctor before taking any medication, even if you want to buy it privately online.