Weight loss injections have emerged as a new weapon in the battle against obesity. But are they a magic bullet or just another fad? Before taking the plunge, let's dive into the science behind these injections, their effectiveness, and the factors to consider.
How They Work:
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Liraglutide (Saxenda): This injectable medication mimics the effects of GLP-1, similar to Ozempic, and works by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and improving insulin sensitivity.
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Semaglutide (Ozempic): This injectable, like Saxenda, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone, leading to feelings of fullness, slowed stomach emptying, and better blood sugar control.
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Tirzepatide (Mounjaro): works to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes by targeting two key hormones in the digestive system: Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). Let's break down how it works.
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Energy Production: When there's excess glucose beyond glycogen capacity, insulin signals fat cells to absorb and store it as triglycerides.
By mimicking GLP-1, these injections work in a few ways:
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Reduced Appetite: They mimic GLP-1, a hormone that signals fullness to the brain, leading you to eat less.
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Slowed Digestion: They slow down the emptying of your stomach, keeping you feeling fuller for longer.
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Increased Insulin Sensitivity: They improve your body's ability to use insulin, leading to better blood sugar control.
The Evidence:
Studies have shown promising results for weight loss injections. Clinical trials reported that Ozempic, for example, showed participants losing an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks. Similarly, studies on Saxenda demonstrated an average weight loss of 9.2% over 56 weeks.
However, it's important to remember these figures are averages. Individual results can vary depending on factors like initial weight, diet, and exercise habits.
Not a Quick Fix:
Here's a crucial point: weight loss injections are not a magic solution. They are most effective when used alongside a healthy diet and exercise program. These injections can help you feel fuller and eat less, but they won't magically change your eating habits or make you burn more calories.
Think of them as tools that can support your weight loss journey, not as a replacement for healthy lifestyle changes.
Sustainability and Side Effects:
A major concern with weight loss injections is their long-term sustainability. Studies on their effectiveness beyond one or two years are limited. There's also the risk of weight regain once you stop using them.
These injections also come with potential side effects. Common ones include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. In rare cases, they may cause more serious side effects like pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) and gallbladder problems.
Who is a Candidate?
Weight loss injections are not for everyone. Health Canada typically approves them for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more (obese) or a BMI of 27 or more (overweight) with a weight-related health condition like type 2 diabetes or heart disease.
Consulting a doctor is crucial to determine if weight loss injections are a safe and suitable option for you. They can assess your health, discuss potential side effects, and ensure you understand the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle alongside injections.
The Cost Factor:
Weight loss injections can be expensive and often not covered by insurance. The cost can vary depending on the brand, dosage, and insurance coverage. This can be a significant barrier for many people considering this option.
Maintaining Blood Sugar Balance:
Insulin works with another hormone, glucagon, to maintain balanced blood sugar levels. Glucagon, produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas, has the opposite effect of insulin. It raises blood sugar levels when they drop too low. This delicate interplay keeps your blood sugar within a healthy range.
The Bottom Line:
Weight loss injections can be a valuable tool for some people struggling with obesity. They can promote weight loss, but they are not a standalone solution. Combining them with a healthy lifestyle is key to long-term success.
Before considering injections, discuss your options with a doctor or pharmacist to understand the potential benefits and risks and explore alternative weight management strategies.
