Weight loss is a multifaceted journey that involves a combination of healthy eating, regular physical activity, and behavioural changes. As dietitians, we often get asked about the role of weight loss medications in this process. While these medications can be beneficial for some individuals, it’s essential to understand their role, effectiveness, and potential side effects.
Understanding Weight Loss Medications
Weight loss medications are prescribed to help individuals lose weight when lifestyle changes alone are not enough. These medications work in various ways, such as reducing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, or decreasing the absorption of fat.
Who Should Consider Weight Loss Medication?
Weight loss medications are typically recommended for individuals who:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher.
- Have a BMI of 27 or higher with obesity-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea.
- Have tried to lose weight through diet and exercise without significant success.
Types of Weight Loss Medications
Several weight loss medications have been approved in Australia.
Some of the commonly prescribed ones include:
- Contrave (Naltrexone-Bupropion): Combines two medications that affect the appetite and reward centres of the brain.
- Duromine (Phentermine): Suppresses appetite by stimulating the central nervous system
- Saxenda (Liraglutide): A daily injection that mimics a hormone to help regulate appetite.
- Ozempic (Semaglutide): A weekly injection that mimics a hormone to regulate appetite and food intake.
- Mounjaro (Tirzepatide): A weekly injection that targets two different hormones involved in blood sugar control and appetite regulation.
Benefits of Weight Loss Medication
When combined with lifestyle changes, weight loss medications can help individuals achieve significant weight loss, which can lead to improvements in obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnoea. Additionally, these medications can provide the extra boost some individuals need to stay motivated and committed to their weight loss goals.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
It’s important to be aware of the potential side effects and risks associated with weight loss medications. Common side effects vary & can include gastrointestinal issues e.g. nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, increased heart rate, dizziness, and insomnia. More severe risks include potential cardiovascular problems and interactions with other medications.
The Importance of a Comprehensive Approach
While weight loss medications can be an effective tool, they are not a standalone solution. A comprehensive weight loss plan should include:
- Healthy Eating: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
- Behavioural Changes: Develop healthy habits, manage stress, and seek support from a dietitian.
As dietitians, our goal is to work with you to achieve sustainable weight loss through personalised nutrition & tailored advice.
Maintaining a good diet while on weight loss medications is important & key points to consider include:
- Protein intake & preserving muscle mass: having ensure protein is important to minimise muscle loss, which can lead to a loss in strength instead of body fat.
Adequate protein intake can also help you to feel fuller for longer and therefore less reliant on foods that are nutrient poor, energy dense.
- Adequate nutrition: prioritising nutrient rich foods is important to make sure that you are fuelling your body properly. Our bodies are complex & requires enough energy, fats, vitamins, minerals to keep us healthy. Weight loss through unhealthy restrictive eating behaviours do not lead to sustained weight loss and often is at the detriment of our physical & mental health.
- Mindful eating: a change in our eating behaviours is important for sustained weight loss. We discuss various strategies to support you to implement healthier & happier habits to understand how your body’s needs and wants.
- Metabolic function: Eating is a behaviour & food is a science. For long term health, we need to eat food that supports our metabolic health & to prevent risks of associated chronic conditions.
Conclusion:
Before starting any weight loss medication, it’s crucial to consult with a doctor.
They can evaluate your health status, discuss potential benefits and risks, and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your individual needs.
Work with a Dietitian and Exercise specialist with design a program that considers your current health, lifestyle, home situation and eating and exercise habits.
Finally, remember the path to a healthier you is a marathon, not a sprint.
With the right tools and support from your medical & allied health team, you can achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall well-being.
