Raise your hand if you’ve ever thought about a quick-fix solution for weight loss. I know I have!
- Liposuction?
- Calorie restriction?
- Appetite-suppressant?
- Weight loss medication?
Weight loss meds have taken a front seat in the last couple of years. GLP-1 medications have become increasingly popular for several reasons, including their role in weight loss, blood sugar control, and secondary benefits, such as a decrease in cholesterol levels.
However, as with any medication usage, there are pros and cons to the process. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when taking GLP-1 medications after consulting with a doctor.
PROS
GLP-1 medications could help kick-start the weight loss process for people with obesity. Individuals experiencing obesity may experience chronic joint pain as well as a lack of motivation. The weight loss associated with medication usage could help alleviate pain and provide intrinsic motivation to continue a weight loss journey with healthy lifestyle implementations.
Oftentimes, inflammation is associated with chronic disease, which eventually leads to additional complications such as kidney problems. Weight loss related to the usage of these medications could alleviate and improve inflammation levels.
Improving food noise is another positive association with medication usage. Sometimes, it’s hard to silence the voice in your brain that triggers you to give in to your food cravings or food triggers. GLP-1 medications help calm the chatter in your brain by reducing food thoughts and reducing appetite. This mechanism of action reduces hunger cues and activates satiety, thus stimulating weight loss.
CONS
The use of any medication comes with side effects and risks. One of the biggest concerns with these GLP-1 medications is that there is not enough data or evidence on long-term effects upon usage. Imagine the idea of diving into the unknown!
Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea as you slowly increase the dosage, site reactions such as itchiness or redness related to the injection, or potential appetite changes as the medication takes effect.
More intense side effects could include gallbladder issues, kidney issues, and eye problems. However, we do not have sufficient evidence to provide accurate, evidence-based recommendations.
The GLP-1 medications have provided a solution for weight loss, but many questions remain unanswered regarding their long-term efficacy. Side effects do vary from person to person, and of course, there is always the chance of regaining the weight upon stopping medication.
As a dietitian and having gone through my own weight journey, I know how frustrating it can be not to see results when you put effort into good health practices. The idea of taking a medication to lose weight is often met with judgment and can be confusing. Therefore, I recommend consulting with a few healthcare practitioners to obtain as much feedback as possible and make the best decision for your health.
