Weight loss

The newest treatment approved for weight loss and type 2 diabetes.

Contains tirzepatide, a drug that targets two key hormones: GLP-1 and GIP.

This dual-action mechanism not only reduces appetite, but also improves blood sugar control.

Designed to improve results when combined with lifestyle changes.

Approved for weight management in overweight or obese adults.

Contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist.

It mimics a natural hormone that acts on the appetite control centers in the brain.

Helps reduce hunger and calorie intake, promoting sustainable weight loss.

Although oral and injectable weight-loss medications may contain the same active ingredient (such as semaglutide), they are chemically designed to suit their method of administration. Injectables go directly into the bloodstream, while oral forms must survive the digestive system—therefore their formulas differ to ensure their effectiveness.

Key differences:

• Injectables bypass digestion for better absorption; oral forms require absorption-enhancing agents.
• Oral tablets use protective coatings and carriers to resist the acidity of the stomach.
• Injectables are often more chemically stable, especially for peptide-based drugs.
• Injectables generally allow for a higher level of the drug in the blood.
• Tablets contain more excipients (binders, coatings, etc.) than injectables.

Oral weight-loss medications can be effective, but they don't always work exactly the same way as injections. Even when the active ingredient is identical, oral versions are absorbed differently by the body—which can slightly influence the amount of medication actually available to work.

That being said, for some people, oral options represent a more practical and still clinically effective alternative.

Key points:

• Oral forms may deliver a smaller amount of medication into the bloodstream compared to injectables.
• Oral doses are often higher to compensate for lower absorption.
• Clinical trials show that oral semaglutide (such as Rybelsus) can lead to weight loss comparable to injections in some individuals.
• For people who are not comfortable with injections, oral medications offer an effective alternative—provided they are taken correctly and regularly.

Several factors can contribute to weight gain, including: * **Unhealthy eating patterns:** Consuming foods high in calories, sugars, saturated fats, and refined carbohydrates can lead to excess calorie intake, resulting in weight gain over time. * **Sedentary lifestyle:** Modern routines characterized by prolonged periods of sitting and minimal physical activity can reduce energy expenditure, thus contributing to weight gain. * **Genetic predisposition:** Genetics can influence an individual's metabolism and their tendency to store or burn calories. * **Environmental influences:** Easy access to high-energy foods and sedentary environments can promote unhealthy weight gain. * **Medical factors:** Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can affect metabolism and contribute to weight gain.

Diagnosing the need for weight loss includes: Body Mass Index (BMI): Calculating BMI based on a person's height and weight serves as a valuable indicator of their weight status, allowing determination of whether they fall into the categories of underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obesity. Comprehensive health assessment: Healthcare professionals conduct a thorough assessment of medical history, existing health conditions, and risk factors associated with weight gain.

Weight loss treatment options encompass a variety of strategies: * **Nutritionally balanced diet:** Adopting a nutrient-rich and balanced diet, emphasizing whole grains, lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats, provides a solid foundation for effective weight loss. * **Physical activity regimen:** Regular engagement in a variety of physical activities, including aerobic and strength training exercises, increases calorie expenditure and improves overall fitness. * **Behavioral therapy:** Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and targeted counseling address psychological aspects that may contribute to unhealthy eating habits, thus promoting lasting behavioral changes. * **Medications (Active Ingredient - Orlistat):** Orlistat, available over-the-counter in the UK, is a weight-loss medication that works by reducing the absorption of dietary fats in the digestive system. It is most effective when used in conjunction with a calorie-reduced diet. * **Surgical solutions:** In severe cases of obesity, surgical interventions such as gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgery may be considered after thorough medical evaluation and appropriate counseling.

Maintaining a healthy weight and preventing weight gain involves a comprehensive range of strategies: * **Mindful Nutrition:** Prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods, practicing portion control, and being aware of food triggers contribute to calorie management. * **Structured Physical Activity:** Integrating regular physical activity into daily routines, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, supports long-term weight management. * **Cultivating Mindful Eating Habits:** Increasing awareness of hunger cues, practicing mindful eating, and limiting emotional eating foster a more harmonious relationship with food. * **Holistic Lifestyle Changes:** Stress management, optimizing sleep, and reducing sedentary behavior serve as pillars to support a balanced, health-focused lifestyle. * **Expert Health Advice:** Consulting healthcare professionals, dietitians, or nutritionists before embarking on a weight loss program, especially those involving medication, ensures a personalized approach tailored to individual needs. In short, weight loss is a complex undertaking marked by informed dietary choices, regular physical engagement, and exploration of behavioral nuances. Achieving a healthy weight is not merely an aesthetic aspiration, but also plays a crucial role in strengthening overall health and reducing obesity-related health complications. By combining evidence-based treatments, adopting transformative lifestyle changes, and benefiting from professional guidance, individuals can embark on a personalized weight loss journey leading to lasting and positive results. If you are considering starting a weight loss journey, the advice of healthcare professionals is invaluable in orchestrating a plan aligned with your unique needs and circumstances.

Read more about weight loss on the NHS website, following the links below: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/lose-weight/ https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-weight/bmi-calculator/ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/obesity/treatment/