Should You Be On Weight Loss Medication?

GLP-1 Medications and Weight Loss: What You Need to Know

There has been growing interest in GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) for weight loss, especially for individuals living with obesity, diabetes, or challenges in long-term weight management. These medications were originally developed to improve blood sugar control—but one powerful side effect quickly stood out: significant and sustained weight loss.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 drugs (like semaglutide, liraglutide, and dulaglutide) mimic a hormone made in the gut that helps regulate blood sugar, hunger, and fullness. They work by:

• Reducing appetite and increasing satiety (helping you feel full faster)

• Slowing digestion, so food stays in the stomach longer

• Stabilizing blood sugar, which reduces cravings and energy crashes

• Supporting fat loss, particularly around the abdomen

Because of these effects, GLP-1 medications are now widely used not just for diabetes, but also as part of medically supervised weight management plans.

Benefits and Considerations of Weight Loss Medications

• Hormones & Biology: Weight loss isn’t just about willpower—your biology, age, and even ethnicity affect how your body responds. GLP-1s help shift your body’s internal signals in your favor.

• Oral vs. Injection: Some GLP-1s are daily or weekly injections, while others are oral pills. The right choice depends on your lifestyle and medical history.

• Health Conditions: These medications aren’t for everyone. Certain health conditions may make GLP-1s unsuitable. That’s why individualized care is key.

• Medication Cost: Affordability matters—options vary, and part of our role is helping patients explore cost-effective solutions in collaboration with their medical team.

• Long-Term Support: Stopping GLP-1s often leads to partial weight regain. That’s why pairing medication with nutrition, movement, mindset, and lifestyle support is essential for lasting results.
  

A Whole-Person Approach to Weight Loss

At For Health Clinic, we don’t see medication as a “magic fix.” Instead, it’s one tool in a comprehensive care plan. Our role includes:

• Building personalized nutrition and movement strategies (often with a modest calorie deficit and higher protein/fiber intake)

• Monitoring progress and side effects, and adjusting treatment when necessary

• Addressing underlying metabolic issues like insulin resistance

• Supporting long-term sustainability, even if medications are stopped

• Collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure complete care
  

Should You Be On Weight Loss Medication?

GLP-1 medications can be life-changing, but they’re not for everyone. To help you find out if they may be a good option for you, we’ve created a short quiz.

[Take the Quiz Here]

Final Note

Our For You: Beyond the Scale program is about more than numbers—it’s about helping you build a healthier relationship with your body, food, and long-term health. Medications may play a role, but real success comes from a plan that supports the whole you.