Conventional thinking has long held that the lost weight typically returns when individuals stop taking effective weight-loss medications. However, a recent study from the University of Copenhagen and Hvidovre Hospital in Denmark challenges this assumption.
The study revealed that individuals can sustain their weight loss for up to a year after discontinuing the use of weight-loss medications, provided they engage in a structured weight-loss program that extends beyond drug treatment.
These new weight-loss medications operate by mimicking glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which triggers a sensation of satiety and reduces the urge to overeat.
Following a meal, they release an agonist that travels to the brain, signaling fullness and slowing down the emptying of stomach contents, reinforcing the feeling of being full.
The study’s findings, published in eClinicalMedicine, suggest that these drugs, when utilized as a part of a comprehensive weight-loss program, may provide a viable long-term solution for individuals seeking to maintain their weight loss.
Weight Dropped by 10% With Exercise
There has been a growing interest in using GLP-1 medications for weight loss, especially among people with diabetes, who have been using these drugs for nearly two decades.
While initially developed for diabetes management, GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and liraglutide have become increasingly popular as weight-loss aids. These drugs are primarily injectable, although there is a rising number of oral formulations available.
Semaglutide, sold under brand names like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus, has received FDA approval for treating overweight or obese individuals in the United States. Liraglutide, branded as Saxenda, has also gained FDA approval for weight management.
The study in question was a randomized, controlled trial conducted in Copenhagen with 166 adults aged 18 to 65 who were obese. After completing an 8-week calorie-reduction diet that led to an average weight loss of 13.1 kg, participants were divided into four groups for 52 weeks:
- One group received a daily 3 mg subcutaneous injection of Saxenda.
- Another group was given a placebo instead of Saxenda.
- A third group exercised without weight-loss medication.
- The final group was prescribed Saxenda and engaged in regular exercise.
A year after the treatments ceased, 109 participants returned for weight assessments. The researchers discovered that more of those who had taken Saxenda and exercised regularly during the treatment phase maintained a 10% reduction in their initial body weight compared to those who took Saxenda without exercise.
They were 4.2 times more likely to maintain their initial weight loss. Participants who took liraglutide without exercise experienced an average weight regain of 6 kg more than those who had received the combined treatment.
These findings highlight the potential benefits of incorporating regular exercise into a weight-loss regimen alongside medication, potentially enhancing weight maintenance efforts after the treatment period.
You Do Not Have to Take GLP-1 Medications Forever
GLP-1 medications, originally developed for diabetes, have evolved as a promising treatment for weight loss, sparking interest among those struggling with obesity.
However, concerns over the need for long-term commitment and potential cost deter some from considering these drugs. This new study, however, sheds light on a more encouraging possibility.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Signe Sørensen Torekov, shared her insight from the findings. She emphasized the positive outcomes when structured exercise accompanies the use of weight loss medications.
This approach has shown that stopping the medication doesn’t necessarily lead to significant weight regain, offering new hope to individuals looking for sustainable weight management options.
While acknowledging the study’s small participant size, scientists appreciated its methodology and the implications of its findings. This pioneering research lays a foundation for future investigations in this domain.
A Realistic Perspective on Weight-Loss Drugs
The idea of using weight-loss drugs as a temporary aid to achieve a healthy weight while establishing long-term healthy habits resonates with many.
This approach allows individuals to utilize medication to kickstart their weight-loss journey while learning the fundamentals of healthy eating and consistent exercise.
On the other hand, viewing excess weight as a chronic disease requiring long-term or lifelong medication is gaining traction. This perspective suggests that weight management is not solely about willpower or personal choices, but rather a condition that may require ongoing medical intervention.
The research underscores that GLP-1 agonists can be particularly effective in addressing obesity and reducing cardiovascular risk. Considering factors like age and co-existing conditions, long-term use of these medications can be a valuable strategy in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
This nuanced view offers a more realistic understanding of the role of weight-loss drugs in the broader context of obesity management.
Diet vs. Exercise – Which One Is Better for Weight Loss?
The debate between exercise and diet as the primary driver of weight loss is one that has been ongoing for decades. While exercise is crucial for overall health and has been shown to enhance weight loss, diet remains the main determinant of success in shedding pounds.
As research has shown, diet accounts for 80 to 90% of weight loss, whereas exercise typically contributes around 5 to 10%. This highlights the importance of making significant dietary changes, such as reducing carbohydrates and sugars and focusing on protein and vegetables to trigger fat burning.
However, exercise offers a wide range of benefits, from improving cardiovascular health to boosting mood and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
In the context of bariatric surgery, weight-loss medications can play a vital role in bringing a person’s weight down to make the procedure safer. Additionally, for individuals who have undergone surgery and may need to lose further weight, these medications can be a valuable tool.
Ultimately, weight-loss medications should be viewed as a tool that, when combined with a healthier lifestyle and diet, can be effective. It’s essential to use these tools correctly to achieve the desired results.