Weight loss drugs: what you need to know

In recent years, weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro have gained significant attention as potential game-changers in the battle against obesity. These medications are hailed by some as breakthroughs in weight management, offering hope to individuals who have struggled to achieve their weight loss goals through diet and exercise alone. But how do these drugs work? What are their benefits and risks? And how can a rounded approach to weight management offer a more personalised path to success? Let’s dive into the details.

What are Ozempic and Mounjaro?

Both Ozempic and Mounjaro are prescription medications initially developed to manage type 2 diabetes. However, they’ve gained popularity for their weight loss benefits, as clinical studies revealed significant reductions in body weight among users.

These drugs belong to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists (like Ozempic) or dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists (like Mounjaro). They mimic hormones in the body that regulate blood sugar levels, slow digestion, and reduce appetite. By decreasing hunger and promoting a feeling of fullness, they help individuals eat less, which can result in weight loss.¹

Many users have reported remarkable outcomes. Clinical trials have shown that people taking these drugs lost an average of 10-15% of their body weight, making them a promising option for those with obesity or weight-related health conditions.¹,²

Potential benefits

Effective weight loss: studies demonstrate substantial weight reduction when combined with lifestyle changes¹,²
Improved metabolic health: these drugs can lower blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes
Convenience: they are administered via a simple weekly injection

Risks and considerations

Like any medication, Ozempic and Mounjaro come with potential side effects. Common issues include nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort, which often subside over time. Before starting any weight loss drug, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider to assess whether it’s appropriate for you. ³,⁴

It’s worth noting that these medications help by suppressing appetite, and once you stop taking them, your appetite may return to its previous levels, which could lead to a risk of reverting to earlier eating habits.

Why a holistic approach matters

While medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro offer promising results, they’re not magic solutions. Sustained weight loss requires an all-rounded approach that addresses diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle.

· Clean eating: a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates can fuel your body and promote fat loss. Avoiding processed foods, sugar-laden snacks, and excessive calorie consumption is key

· Exercise: regular physical activity is another cornerstone of effective weight management. It helps burn calories, build muscle, and boost metabolism. Whether it’s brisk walking, strength training, or yoga, finding an activity you enjoy makes it easier to stay consistent

· Mindset and healthy habits: Building healthy habits, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep also play critical roles in maintaining a healthy weight

Personalised weight management: the key to long-term success

One-size-fits-all solutions rarely work when it comes to weight management. That’s where MyHealthChecked’s Weight Management DNA Test can make a difference.

How it works

The test analyses your genetic makeup to provide insights into how your body responds to food, exercise, and other factors affecting weight. Based on your unique genetic profile, you'll receive tailored recommendations to:

Lose weight: discover your optimal macronutrient balance and effective exercise strategies suited to your genes.
Manage weight: maintain your progress with personalised tips designed just for you.
Optimise health: ensure you're supporting your well-being through optimal nutrition and lifestyle choices.

By leveraging your DNA, you can move beyond trial and error and adopt strategies aligned with your biology. This personalised approach empowers you to make informed decisions for long-term success in your weight management journey.

Making an informed decision

The buzz around weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro is well-deserved, but they’re not a perfect fit for everyone. While these medications may be helpful for some, they work best when combined with a holistic weight management approach that prioritises healthy habits and personalisation.

If you’re considering a weight loss journey, why not take the guesswork out of it? MyHealthChecked’s Weight Management DNA Test offers a science-backed way to tailor your approach, empowering you to achieve your goals in a way that aligns with your body’s needs.⁵

Ready to take control of your weight with a personalised approach? Learn more about how MyHealthChecked’s Weight Management DNA Test can help you lose weight, manage weight, or gain weight effectively and sustainably. Visit our website today to get started on your journey toward holistic weight management.

References

Garvey, T W. et al. (2023). Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity in people with type 2 diabetes (SURMOUNT-2): a double-blind, randomised, multicentre, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial. Retrieved from: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(23)01200-X/abstract
Wilding, J. et al. (2021). Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. Retrieved from: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
Ozempic. (n.d.) Prescribing information: Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection. Retrieved from: https://www.ozempic.com/prescribing-information.html
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Prescribing information: Mounjaro. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215866s000lbl.pdf
National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). Personalized nutrition: Tailoring dietary recommendations through genetic insights. Retrieved from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11357412/pdf/nutrients-16-02673.pdf