It’s a fact: America is getting heavier. With the global pandemic, waistlines continued to expand, with nearly 50% of American adults reporting weight gain. The good news is that there are treatments available to help people lose weight and get back on track. One such treatment is the use of GLP-1’s, or glucagon-like peptide-1 analogues. In this article, we’ll discuss what GLP-1’s are, how they can help with weight loss, and the potential side effects associated with their use.
What are GLP-1's and what do they do
GLP-1’s are a class of drugs that help to regulate blood sugar levels. They work by increasing the release of insulin, which in turn helps to lower blood sugar levels. In addition to this, GLP-1’s also help to reduce appetite and promote weight loss.
How can GLP-1's help with weight loss
There are a couple of ways in which GLP-1 drugs can promote weight loss: By reducing hunger and increasing satiety: GLP-1 drugs stimulate the release of satiety hormones that help to reduce hunger and promote fullness. By reducing calorie intake: GLP-1 drugs can also reduce the number of calories you consume by delaying gastric emptying. This means that food stays in your stomach for longer, allowing you to feel fuller for longer and preventing you from overeating.
What are the benefits of using GLP-1's for weight loss
GLP-1’s help to regulate appetite, increase glucose metabolism, and are also involved in gut-brain communication. GLP-1’s have been shown to be effective in treating obesity and associated metabolic disorders. Previously approved by the FDA in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, the FDA has now approved several GLP 1’s as part of medical weight loss programs. Common names of these include: Wegovy (semaglutide) Saxenda (liraglutide) GLP-1’s are available by prescription only and should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
What are potential side effects of GLP-1's for weight loss?
The most common side effects associated with GLP-1 drugs are gastrointestinal, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other potential side effects include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
If you experience any of these side effects, it’s important to speak to your doctor or healthcare provider.
How can I get started on a GLP-1 program?
At Patuxent Wellness, we offer a variety of services to help people improve their quality of life, including medical weight loss programs that may include the use of GLP-1 drugs. We individualize each program to meet the needs of our patients. Prior to beginning any weight loss program, we conduct comprehensive laboratory and physical assessments to determine whether a medical weight loss program is right for you. We also review your medications, diet, and lifestyle habits to ensure that we are providing the most individualized and effective care possible. If you’re interested in learning more about our medical weight loss programs or any of the services we offer, please contact us today. We look forward to helping you reach your goals!
Disclaimer: The information contained here was not written by a medical doctor and is intended for informational purposes only. This is not a substitute for medical advice.
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