Healthy Weight Loss Solutions Before GLP-1s
While GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Ozempic have garnered significant attention for their potential to aid in weight loss, they are still relatively new, with the first GLP-1 drug approved by the FDA in 2009. As a result, research on the long-term effects of these drugs is still being studied.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone naturally produced in the body that helps regulate blood sugar levels, appetite, cravings, and digestion. GLP-1 medications are available as injectable drugs (although oral preparations are being studied) and are primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity. These medications work by promoting insulin production, slowing digestion, reducing appetite, and potentially offering a slight boost to metabolism. While GLP-1s help regulate blood sugar and stimulate insulin release, their most significant contribution to weight loss comes through appetite suppression. However, they are most effective when combined with interventions like a healthy diet and regular exercise.
GLP-1 medications are not a clinically appropriate option for everyone, and coverage is dependent on insurance plans, potentially making them an expensive out-of-pocket option. Before discussing with your provider whether GLP-1 medications are right for you, it’s important to consider other sustainable strategies for long-term weight management, including lifestyle changes.
How We Can Help With Healthy, Lasting Weight Loss
1. Clinical Considerations for Weight Management
Hormonal imbalances, medications, and lifestyle factors can affect your weight. During your visit, your provider will review your medical history and may recommend various tests, including blood work, to better understand any underlying factors that could be influencing your weight. Below are some key considerations:
- Thyroid Issues: A blood test can identify hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), which can slow metabolism, lead to weight gain, and cause fatigue.
- Sex Hormone Imbalance: Imbalances in testosterone (important for regulating muscle mass and fat distribution) or progesterone (critical for metabolism) can influence weight.
- Stress Hormones (Cortisol): Chronic elevated cortisol levels can promote fat accumulation, especially around the abdomen, and may negatively affect overall health.
- Perimenopause Onset: The transition to menopause can last several years, during which some women may experience changes in weight.
- Medication Use: Certain medications can impact appetite or metabolism, leading to weight changes.
- Substance Use: The increase in caloric intake from alcohol and increased appetite associated with cannabis use, can predispose individuals to weight gain.
- Life Stress: Ongoing stress can lead to changes in eating habits and weight.
- Depression: Depression can result in either weight gain or weight loss, depending on the individual.
2. Health Coaching
Take advantage of no-cost, one-on-one health coaching sessions with your primary care provider to support your weight loss journey. These sessions help you manage chronic conditions and implement sustainable lifestyle changes. With personalized guidance from your provider, you’ll gain the tools, accountability, and support needed to make lasting health improvements and achieve your weight loss goals.
3. Referrals for Behavioral Health Support
Mental health counseling plays a critical role in weight management by addressing emotional eating and helping you develop coping strategies for depression, grief, anxiety, stress, addiction, and more. Our Personal Health Navigators can refer you to behavioral health professionals who can introduce strategies that you can employ for a balanced relationship with food.
Schedule Your Next Visit
Contact a Personal Health Navigator to book a primary care or health coaching visit with your clinical team at the Barclays Health Center today.