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Obesity is a real medical condition — it’s not just caused by poor willpower or overeating. Still, many people tend to blame themselves when their weight loss efforts fail. They do what all the weight loss gurus say should work but don’t get results. Many believe that losing weight is as simple as calories in and calories out, but it’s not that basic for everyone.
For those who have been stuck on the yo-yo ride of dieting, exercising and trying everything under the sun to lose weight, weight loss medications could be an alternative solution. The best part is, they’re backed by science.
Taking any medication comes with risks. That’s why it’s best to educate yourself and consult with your doctor to see if weight loss medications are right for you.
The science behind weight loss medications
Weight loss medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide work differently from the old-school diet pills most people know about. These medications don’t just temporarily suppress appetite — they actually reset the way your body regulates weight in a few different ways:
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They regulate hunger hormones. Semaglutide and tirzepatide control appetite by mimicking the hormone GLP-1. “GLP-1 receptor agonists act like your body’s natural ‘off switch’ for hunger,” says Dr. Michael Snyder from FuturHealth. “It tells your brain you’ve had enough so you can focus on living instead of constantly thinking about your next meal.”
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They slow gastric emptying. GLP-1 receptor agonists keep you feeling full longer by slowing down how fast food leaves your stomach. This can help you avoid overeating.
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They improve insulin sensitivity. When insulin sensitivity increases, blood sugar and fat storage are more balanced, supporting sustainable weight loss.
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They reduce cravings. Weight loss medications reduce cravings by regulating the brain’s reward system, reducing the amount of dopamine released when you eat.
All of these benefits support long-term weight loss, and people who stay the course are getting results. In a study from 2021, non-diabetic participants who took semaglutide weekly lost around 14.9% of their body weight over a 68-week period.
Weight loss medications can support sustainable weight loss
Losing weight is a good goal, but most people find themselves back to square one pretty fast. Nothing is more frustrating than working hard to lose weight, only to gain it back the minute you return to “normal.” Most diets don’t work long-term because they’re too restrictive to become a lifestyle. If you’re on a restrictive diet, the minute you want to enjoy a cookie or a piece of cake, you can feel the weight gain before you even take a bite. Depriving yourself of treats once in a while can be an unsustainable way to live.
Weight loss medications can make sustainable weight loss easier by eliminating many of the issues that cause rapid weight gain. For instance, these medications reduce the urge to binge eat by maintaining long-term appetite control. Weight loss medication curbs hunger and cravings, making it easier to stick to eating nutritious meals and maintain your exercise routine.
Who benefits from weight loss medication?
Although weight loss medications are ideal for treating obesity, they could help anyone who struggles to lose weight and keep it off. Generally speaking, people with a BMI of more than 30, those with metabolic syndrome, emotional eaters and people with other weight-related issues can benefit from these medications. Many people with Type 2 Diabetes take these medications to control blood sugar and see weight loss benefits as well.
Medication works best with lifestyle changes
Although weight loss medication works well, it’s important to make lifestyle changes to support long-term success. This is especially important if you decide to go off the medication at any point.
If you choose to take weight loss medication, it’s equally important to adopt the following habits:
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Good nutrition. Eating food rich in fiber and protein will maximize the appetite-reducing effects of weight loss medication.
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Regular exercise. No matter what diet plan you’re on or what medication you take, regular exercise is essential. Movement is required to preserve muscle mass and boost metabolism.
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Restful sleep. Poor sleep will undermine your weight loss efforts, so it’s important to get adequate sleep.
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Proper hydration. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when you’re taking weight loss medication. Hydration can also reduce the nausea some people experience as a side effect of taking weight loss medication.
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Stress reduction. Stress increases cortisol production and appetite, so reducing stress is a must.
A new chapter in weight loss management
For those who have spent years fighting an uphill battle with their weight, weight loss medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are proving to be a great solution. These medications do more than just help people drop pounds; they’re helping people get healthy and make long-term lifestyle changes. Although it’s not a quick fix, weight loss medication can make sustainable weight loss an achievable goal.
If you’re considering taking weight loss medication, always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider before moving ahead.
— Provided by Ascend Agency
The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.
