The world of weight loss can be a confusing one, especially with the recent surge in popularity of medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Tirzepatide. These medications, belonging to a class known as Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists [1], have shown promise in promoting weight loss, but they’re not a magic solution. In fact, many celebrities are touting these drugs for quick weight loss fixes, often overlooking the crucial role of lifestyle changes for lasting results.
Here’s what you need to know to navigate the weight loss landscape and find a program that prioritizes your safety and long-term success.
Understanding GLP-1 Agonists
GLP-1 agonists work by mimicking a natural gut hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite and blood sugar. This translates to feeling fuller for longer, potentially leading to reduced calorie intake and weight loss [2]. However, research suggests that these medications work best when combined with a healthy diet and exercise routine [3]
Choosing the Right Program: Beyond the Medication
While GLP-1 agonists can be a valuable tool, a truly effective weight loss program should go beyond just medication. Here’s why:
- Personalized Habits, Lasting Results: Studies have shown that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes, like healthy eating and exercise, are more likely to keep it off in the long run [4]. A program that focuses solely on medication use might not equip you with the skills to maintain a healthy weight after you stop the injections.
- Targeted Duration, Sustainable Habits: Ideally, your weight loss program should have a set duration with a clear plan to wean you off the medication. This timeframe helps establish healthy habits that become second nature, allowing you to maintain your weight loss goals even after discontinuing the injections.
- Conservative Dosing for Safe and Sustainable Weight Loss: We believe in a “low and slow” approach to dosing medications. Rapid weight loss can be unhealthy and lead to side effects, and the goal shouldn’t be to achieve the gauntness associated with the term “Ozempic face” caused by sarcopenia (muscle loss). Our program prioritizes finding the minimum effective dose for you, minimizing the risk of side effects like nausea, vomiting, and other GI upset [9]. Remember, these medications are tools to help you achieve your goals, but they won’t magically erase or cancel out unhealthy eating habits. If you indulge in sugary treats and processed foods, you might still experience unpleasant side effects.
The Importance of Evidence-Based Practices
A reputable weight loss program should incorporate a comprehensive approach that goes beyond the scale. Here’s where a focus on evidence-based practices comes in:
- Baseline Labs: Your Roadmap to Success: Before starting any weight loss program, particularly one involving medications, getting a baseline metabolic and lipid analysis, along with blood sugar and iron levels, is crucial [5]. This provides valuable information about your overall health and helps tailor the program to your individual needs.
- Blood Type and Personalized Nutrition: Understanding your ABO blood group is crucial for tailoring your diet. This knowledge allows us to align our nutritional advice with your body’s unique needs, enhancing the effectiveness of your weight loss journey.
- Thyroid Function and Overall Health: Thyroid health plays a significant role in metabolism and weight management [6]. A program that includes a thyroid check ensures proper thyroid function, which can significantly impact your weight loss journey.
- GLP-1 Agonists and Iron Deficiency: Research suggests a potential link between GLP-1 agonist use and iron deficiency anemia [7]. A program that monitors ferritin levels, a marker of iron stores, can ensure you receive proper monitoring and supplementation if needed.
Avoiding Sticker Shock
A recent investigation by JAMA Network highlighted the concerning rise in the cost of weight loss medications, even with insurance coverage [8]. This price increase isn’t just from pharmaceutical companies; some clinics are also marking up the cost of administering and selling the medication, profiting hand-over-fist at the patients’ expense (literally). This can be a significant barrier for many seeking to lose weight.
Our program utilizes compounded semaglutide, the generic form of medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. We give you the supplies and education necessary to administer your own injections from the comfort of your home. This approach helps us control costs and makes treatment more accessible to our patients. Why should we make you travel every week and potentially miss work just to receive a simple subcutaneous injection?Â
Additionally, we offer complete transparency with all-inclusive pricing upfront, covering both medications, supplies, and all program consultations. Patients can choose our monthly (zero interest) payment plan, or they pay up front for a discount.
Your Journey to Weight Loss Success
Our program provides a structured approach to weight loss, with consultations designed to support you throughout your journey. Those who are new to our clinic and have not already established care with one of our providers will first need to establish candidacy through baseline labs and a detailed history. Once you’re approved, here’s a glimpse into what you can expect:
- Week 1: Kickstart Consult with our Health Coach – This initial consultation focuses on understanding your goals and developing a personalized plan for nutrition and movement. You’ll get a comprehensive evaluation of your current dietary habits, fitness level, cooking skills, and health goals.
- Weekly Follow-Ups: Regular consultations with our Health Coach and Registered Nurse provide ongoing support, motivation, and adjustments to your plan as needed. We won’t give you a prescription and just turn you loose! You’ll get all the expert advice and follow-up you need for real results and peace of mind.
- Week 12: Lab Review with Provider – A comprehensive lab review at the conclusion of the program allows us to assess your progress. We’ll look at how far you’ve come and address what next steps look like for you.Â
Remember, weight loss is a journey, not a destination. Choosing the right program can make all the difference. Look for a program that prioritizes your safety, long-term success, and overall well-being. Don’t settle for a quick fix; invest in a program that empowers you to develop healthy habits for lasting results.
Ready to take control of your weight loss journey? Schedule a consultation with us today!
References:
- Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., … & O’Neil, P. M. (2021). Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine, 384(11), 989-1002. Retrieved from: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
- Nauck, M. A., & Meier, J. J. (2016). The incretin effect in healthy individuals and those with type 2 diabetes: physiology, pathophysiology, and response to therapeutic interventions. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 4(6), 525-536. Retrieved from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2213858716000057
- Ryan, D. H., & Yockey, S. R. (2017). Weight Loss and Improvement in Comorbidity: Differences at 5%, 10%, 15%, and Over. Current Obesity Reports, 6(2), 187-194. Retrieved from: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13679-017-0262-y
- Look AHEAD Research Group. (2014). Eight-year weight losses with an intensive lifestyle intervention: The look AHEAD study. Obesity, 22(1), 5-13. Retrieved from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/oby.20662
- American Diabetes Association. (2021). 2. Classification and Diagnosis of Diabetes: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2021. Diabetes Care, 44(Supplement 1), S15-S33. Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.2337/dc21-S002
- Biondi, B. (2010). Thyroid and Obesity: An Intriguing Relationship. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 95(8), 3614-3617. Retrieved from: https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/95/8/3614/2596484
- Svensson, C. K., & Cowen, E. W. (2016). Iron Deficiency Anemia in Patients Treated with DPP-4 Inhibitors or GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: A Review of the Literature and Pathophysiological Mechanisms. Current Diabetes Reviews, 12(2), 148-156. Retrieved from: https://www.eurekaselect.com/article/136843
- JAMA Network Open. (2023). Trends in Prices of Popular Brand-Name Prescription Drugs in the United States. Retrieved from: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2816824
Lilly Young
Lilly Young, raised in the realm of health and wellness by her mother, Dr. Lari Young, blends her passion for writing and medical research to offer insightful contributions to the MyHealth1st blog.
