His introduction Glycogen-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptorsLike Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) is an important discovery in obesity management. These drugs have been very effective in promoting weight loss and improving blood sugar levels.
While many people may believe that I have something against GLP-1S-whether it is “competition” for my practice (not), or maybe I do not agree with the use of medicinal products for weight loss. I wrote everything about it here.
I believe that the new class of weight loss drugs are incredible tools that will help change people’s lives for the better. But it’s not the whole puzzle. It’s just a piece, and there are some very real restrictions on their use.
Recent surveys show That obesity rates in the US have been greatly reduced – from 46% in 2022 to 45.6% in 2023. There was an increase of 700% The use of GLP-1 fighters between 2019 and 2023.
Although even a change of 0.04% of obesity rates may indicate a general downward trend that can be partially attributed to GLP-1 medicines, there are well-founded reasons to believe that these drugs will not drastically reduce the prevalence of obesity … at least not now. But why?
The answer to this question is multifaceted and complex.
Restrictions of GLP-1 drugs in the treatment of epidemic throughout the population
Cost and Accessibility: These medicines are extremely expensive – as above, over $ 15,000 a year in some cases. This is a huge obstacle to people who do not have the luxury of paying out of their pocket or who do not have private insurance coverage. Even for those with private insurance, companies often cover costs or duration for GLP-1 medicines. While some people qualify for GLP-1 Meds via Medicare or Medicaid, many do not.
A recent hearing of the US Senate Committee on health, education, work and pensions revealed that Ozempic costs 15 times more in the United States than in Germany. Data on stopping the patient of the GLP-1 Fighter Fighter Drugs is unclear but numbers range from around 50% within 3 months to 75% To the 2 -year signal. The reasons for leaving the drugs include costs, side effects or slow weight loss.
In other words, So many people who will probably benefit a lot of these medicines, simply cannot have access to them or for some time. Access is lower for individuals in some racial and ethnic groupswhich are also the groups that have the highest rates of obesity (and the lowest access to overall health care).
Patent diplomas for many of these medicines are increasing in March 2026, which means that the least expensive general versions of the semiaglitis will probably be on the market shortly afterwards. Will they be much more affordable? Only time will say.
Viability of results: While GLP-1 medicines are effective for weight loss, research suggests that these drugs are probably a long-term commitment. For many people, their benefits depend on continuous use. A study by the 1 pm 1 test 1 He emphasized that two -thirds of weight lost with the use of Imaglidis were repeated within one year after discontinuation of treatment. As the numbers show, some weight is likely to be possible, but this is not necessarily true to everyone.
When I work with customers on GLP-1 fighters, we focus not only on food, but also on relationship with food and lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity.
Restrictions on the effectiveness of GLP-1 fighters drugs: Dr. Spencer NadolskyDo and obesity and lipid specialist, these medicines have their limits.
Currently, the average is about 20% weight loss with tizepatide (Mounjaro). For a 400 -pound person, this would mean that 80 pounds lost. This person still has obesity.
In addition, Dr. Nadolsky reinforced the fact that not everyone responds to these medicines.
Basic causes of obesity: Obesity is driven by complex factorsIncluding socio -economic inequalities, problems of the food system and the sedentary lifestyle. Conversely, GLP-1 medicines are mainly aimed at processes, such as appetite regulation and insulin sensitivity. These are obviously important, but in order to really affect obesity rates, there should be a comprehensive focus not only on pharmacology but also on public health interventions. A review of 2023 in nature medicine They suggested initiatives to address this issue that have four parties: informing the public about nutrition, allowing them to make health promotion options, motivate them to make changes to their routines and habits, and to influence behavior through social rules and other methods.
The review has proposed increasing active transport, increasing incentives for healthcare, improving access and accessibility of healthy foods, limiting availability and marketing of high calorie marketing, improve food labeling, Weight and bariatric surgery.
Side effects and contraindications: Common side effects of GLP-1 drugsLike nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal discomfort, they can prevent adhesion. In addition, these drugs are contraindicated in people with certain conditions, such as kidney disease, some cancers and a historical pancreatitis.
The role of dietary interventions
GLP-1 medicines are effective for most people, but changes in diet should be part of their use. Nutrition strategies can enhance the effectiveness of treatment while supporting long -term health.
Here are some dining tips while in GLP-1 medicines:
Priority to protein and fiber: GLP-1 drugs slow gastric discharge, promoting premature saturation. This means that most meals and snacks must be dense nutrients to avoid nutrient deficiencies and promote overall health. A diet rich in lean proteins (eg meat and fish, tofu, eggs, Greek yogurt and ricotta, beans and lentils) helps maintain muscle mass. The acquisition of ~ 25+ grams of fiber per day from vegetables, whole grains and fruits, helps maintain fullness and supports blood sugar control. Do not sleep on beans or soy foods as a way to get high quality protein and fiber in one place!
Minimize over-processed foods: Processed foods high in refined carbohydrates, additional sugars and unhealthy fats can offset the benefits of GLP-1 drugs. I recommend that you focus on whole, few processed foods to improve overall metabolic health. This also means minimizing alcohol and other lower quality foods to help maximize nutrients in your diet.
Hydration and small, frequent meals: People in GLP-1 drugs often face nausea, which can be alleviated by moisturizing and eating smaller, more frequent meals. In naval days, the integration of foods that are soft in the stomach, such as soups and smoothies, can help.
Excellent nutrition practices: GLP-1 medicines reduce appetite, creating an opportunity to practice careful food. Declaration during meals, enjoyment of food and listening to hunger points can help enhance healthy eating behaviors.
Weight Loss Loss
In addition to existing GLP-1 receptor agonists, many promising weight loss medicines are under development or awaiting approval:
- Orforglipron Eli Lilly develops Orforglipron, a GLP-1 fighter. This medicine could provide an alternative to patients who prefer not to use injectable.
- Cagrisema (Cagrilintide/Semaglutide combination) Novo Nordisk promotes this combined treatment, with significant effects of weight loss on early tests.
- Reset. Retatrutide is a triple hormone receptor agonist, with early studies reporting a significant weight decrease.
- VK2735 Viking Therapeutics explores VK2735, an oral treatment with promising preliminary results.
Conclusion
GLP-1 medicines offer significant benefits for people who fight with obesity, but are not a panacea for wider epidemics. Treating these complex, multifactorial challenges requires a comprehensive approach that combines medical innovation with strong public health efforts. By incorporating dietary strategies, promoting fair access to care and dealing with systemic issues, we can make significant progress towards reversing trends in obesity.
Looking for help for your diet? I get new customers in my practice 1: 1. Get more information and close a session here.
Do you know? I also have an online nutrition lesson in the awaiting and menopause called don’t sweat it. Get more information and sign up here.
