Reviewed by Dr. Chad Gilliam PA
Reading time: Six minutes.
Welcome to the final installment of our series on metabolism and weight loss! In our previous blogs, we discussed various ways to boost your metabolism.
We have also debunked some common myths about slow metabolism and suggested lifestyle changes that you can adopt for long-term, sustainable weight loss.
In a world where over 1.9 billion adults are overweight, the prospect of an additional tool for chronic weight management is significant.
If you’ve struggled with weight management, you’ve likely heard about semaglutide – a prescription medication that has recently gained attention for its potential to aid weight loss goals.
In the final blog of our series, we will take a closer look at how semaglutide works and what you should know before adding it to your weight loss regimen.
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and control appetite by mimicking the function of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).
Normally, GLP-1 is produced by the intestines in response to food. Although these medications are typically used to treat type 2 diabetes, semaglutide has been studied for its potential for chronic weight management in adults.
How Does Semaglutide Aid Weight Loss?
When activated, GLP-1 receptors slow down the process of gastric emptying, making you feel full for longer after a meal. This helps to reduce overall food intake.
Semaglutide also impacts the brain’s appetite control center, which decreases hunger signals and increases feelings of satiety.
Semaglutide Injections for Weight Loss
Semaglutide is administered once a week via subcutaneous injection. The injections typically come in an easy-to-use pre-filled pen.
Doctors and weight management specialists prescribe semaglutide as part of a structured weight loss program.
The program involves a balanced, reduced-calorie diet, increased physical activity, and behavioral modifications.
This comprehensive approach ensures that the weight loss is sustainable and not solely dependent on the medication.
How Effective Is Semaglutide for Weight Loss in Non-Diabetics?
According to clinical trials, semaglutide has shown promising results for weight loss in non-diabetic individuals.
In a study involving over 1,900 participants with obesity and without diabetes, those who received the highest dose of semaglutide lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight after one year.
Is Semaglutide for Me?
You may be a candidate for semaglutide injections for weight management if:
- You have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher.
- You have a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
- You are committed to making lifestyle changes to support your weight loss journey.
You should avoid semaglutide if:
- You have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), or a thyroid nodule.
- You have a history of gallbladder disease.
- You have a history of pancreatitis.
- You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Summary: An Overview of Our Metabolism and Weight Loss Blog Series
How to Reset Metabolism For Weight Loss
- Metabolism is the process by which our bodies convert food into energy. This energy is crucial for daily activities and essential bodily functions.
- Factors such as age, gender, genetics, and body composition can affect metabolic rate.
- You can boost your metabolism by:
- Eating a balanced diet with plenty of protein, fiber, whole grains, and healthy fats.
- Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day.
- Strength training at least twice a week.
- Schedule regular movement breaks into your day.
- Getting enough quality sleep.
- Managing stress levels.
The Science Behind Slow Metabolism: Fact vs. Fiction
- A slow metabolism is a condition in which the body burns fewer calories than usual to perform its essential functions. A sluggish metabolism can result in weight gain and make it difficult to lose excess weight.
- By debunking common myths and making informed, healthy choices, you can improve your metabolic rate:
- You inherited a slow metabolism, you’re doomed: FALSE, healthy choices can override genetic predispositions.
- Eating more frequently boosts your metabolism: FALSE, total calories burned through digestion are the same whether you eat three giant meals or six mini meals.
- Starving yourself can boost your metabolism: FALSE, a severe caloric deficit can slow your metabolism by putting your body into starvation mode.
- Certain foods will skyrocket your metabolism: FALSE, some foods may increase your metabolic rate temporarily but not significantly enough to cause weight loss.
- Metabolic slump with age is unstoppable: FALSE, while metabolism does slow with age, it can be offset by staying active and maintaining muscle mass.
Nurturing Your Metabolism: Lifestyle Choices for Sustainable Weight Loss
- Sustainable weight loss means losing weight in a healthy manner and maintaining it long-term.
- You can nurture your metabolism for sustainable weight loss when you:
- Add protein to your diet
- Eat more fruits and veggies
- Track your calories
- Drink more water
- Add resistance training to your exercise routine
- Practice mindful eating
- Get enough sleep
How To Use Semaglutide for Weight Loss
- Semaglutide is a diabetes medication in the class of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). It helps regulate blood sugar levels and control appetite by mimicking the function of a hormone called GLP-1.
- Semaglutide injections for weight loss are administered once a week. Combine semaglutide with lifestyle changes like healthy eating and increased physical activity for the best results.
- Semaglutide has been proven effective for weight loss in non-diabetic individuals. However, it is not suitable for everyone and should be avoided by those with certain medical conditions. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if semaglutide treatment is for you.
Madison Wellness & Aesthetics Center: Your Medical Weight Loss Clinic in Madison, AL
Thank you for reading our blog series! We hope you found these blogs informative and helpful on your journey to better health.
At Madison Wellness & Aesthetics Center, we offer personalized medical weight loss programs that target the root cause of your weight gain.
Our healthcare professionals will work with you to create a customized plan that may include medications like semaglutide, lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplements, and more.
It’s never too late to make positive changes for your health and well-being! If you are searching for a ‘weight loss clinic in Madison, AL,’ or ‘semaglutide near me,’ schedule a consultation. Call (256) 722-0555 or complete the online booking form.
Semaglutide FAQ
Semaglutide mimics a hormone in your body that helps regulate blood sugar levels. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar levels, promotes a feeling of fullness, and reduces hunger, which can lead to weight loss.
While individual results may vary, most patients start losing weight within 8-12 weeks of beginning semaglutide. Sustainable weight loss is a gradual process that involves comprehensive lifestyle changes in addition to medication.
Semaglutide is a single GLP-1 receptor agonist, while tirzepatide + hydroxocobalamin is a dual GLP-1 and glucagon receptor agonist. Both medications have shown promising results in weight loss trials, and the choice between them depends on individual factors such as medical history, comorbidities, and preferences.
