There has been a lot of discussion over the usage of the prescription diabetic medicine semaglutide for weight loss. Semaglutide is an FDA-approved GLP-1 drug that helps the body manage blood glucose levels. It is marketed under brand names such as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Rybelsus®. But what exactly is a GLP-1 medication, how does semaglutide work to control both blood sugar and appetite, and how effective (and safe) is it for weight loss? Continue reading to find out everything you need to know.
GLP-1 medicines were formerly used largely to treat type 2 diabetes. Saxenda® (liraglutide) and Wegovy® (semaglutide) are two FDA-approved GLP-1 medicines for weight loss. When blood glucose levels are high, the body produces GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) to boost insulin secretion while decreasing glucagon release. This hormone also alerts the central nervous, gastrointestinal, and endocrine systems that food has arrived and is ready for metabolization. This signal initiates processes that halt digestion and produce a feeling of satiation, or being “full.” When the body’s natural production of GLP-1 is insufficient, a GLP-1 prescription can help to supplement it.
Semaglutide injections may be an appropriate and effective treatment for persons who are dealing with their weight or appetite management.
How (and how frequently) is Semaglutide given?
Semaglutide is usually given once a week via subcutaneous injection into the upper arm, belly, or thigh. Most patients claim that the needle used is exceedingly small and barely visible. Because semaglutide loses a significant portion of its effectiveness after 7 days, most treatment plans call for weekly dosing. Rybelsus®, a daily pill, is currently the sole FDA-approved oral formulation of the medicine.
Semaglutide Reactions
Semaglutide has been extensively tested over many years, with no severe safety issues so far. In most cases, this medicine is regarded as quite safe, and the advantages appear to clearly outweigh any potential hazards. The majority of people have little adverse effects, although they can and do occur. These could include…
- Abdominal Discomfort
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Gas & Bloating
- Pain or Tenderness at the injection site
Precautions
As with any medication, it’s critical to talk to your doctor about any medications or supplements you’re currently taking, especially those that may affect your blood sugar levels. It is also necessary to check any history of the following medical disorders…
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder disease
- Kidney problems
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Alcoholism
If you experience symptoms of high or low blood sugar while taking semaglutide, consult your doctor right away.
Semaglutide Weight Loss Success Tips
Semaglutide has been demonstrated to be an extremely effective weight loss medication. However, combining it with other weight loss strategies improves both short-term and long-term success. That is why, at Prevention Medical Center, we combine medical intervention with tried-and-true food and lifestyle changes.
Semaglutide treatments should be part of a complete weight loss plan that integrates the following tactics into your daily routine for the best outcomes.
Reduce the amount of added sugar in your diet.
While semaglutide does help to manage blood sugar levels, you can increase its overall effectiveness by limiting your intake of added sugar. Begin with the obvious: limit your intake of soda and sugary beverages, use less (or no) sugar in your coffee or tea, and consume fewer sweets. But don’t forget about all the added sugar lurking in grocery store aisles. Just look for “added sugar” on the labels, and you might be shocked at what you find!
Increase the amount of (lean) protein in your diet.
Include 20-30 grams of protein per meal to keep your body satiated and energized throughout the day. Protein-rich foods include…
- Lean Beef
- Fish
- Chicken Breast
- Eggs
- Cottage Cheese
- Greek Yogurt
- Tree Nuts
- Beans
Increase Your Fiber Consumption
We can’t emphasize this enough: eat more fiber! Fiber is vital for slowing digestion, controlling blood sugar, feeling “full” longer, increasing gut biome health, and (as an added benefit) keeping you regular. Oh, and fiber can help prevent colorectal cancer as well.
Fiber consumption for adults should range between 25 and 30 grams per day. (Most individuals in the United States get roughly half that amount.) Fortunately, this is not difficult to accomplish. One cup of beans can provide up to 15 grams of fiber. Do you want something a little sweeter? One cup of raspberries contains 8 grams of fiber! A cup of quick oatmeal contains 5 grams of fiber.
Find out more about common foods for weightloss
Reduce Fried and Fatty Foods
Fatty or oily foods are already more challenging to digest for your body. Some patients report increased discomfort or even nausea after taking semaglutide. You don’t have to give them altogether, but cutting back will make you feel better and achieve benefits sooner.
Boost Your Physical Activity
You don’t need to engage in strenuous activity to lose weight. Physical activity, on the other hand, is an essential component of every weight loss regimen. You can easily boost it by changing your usual habits.
Get Enough Good Sleep
The amount and quality of sleep you obtain can have an impact on your weight and general health. Simply put, when you’re sleepy, you’re more likely to expend less energy while consuming more calories.
Find out more on importance of sleep for weight loss and weight loss maintenance
Learn 12 tips for effective weight loss
Semaglutide Treatments at Prevention Medical Center
In addition to Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Rybelsus®, we may prescribe generic semaglutide at a much cheaper cost.
Click here to learn more about generic semaglutide pricing at Prevention Medical Center.
