Weight Loss Injections

There are a few different weight loss injections available now — some are approved specifically for weight loss, while others were originally designed for diabetes but are used "off-label" for weight management too.

In this blog I talk about some of the most common weight loss injections and how they work in the body. I’ll also cover strategies to maintain weight loss after ceasing the injections, and tips to lose weight naturally.

Semaglutide (Wegovy or Ozempic)

Wegovy was specifically approved for weight loss, whereas Ozempic was approved for type 2 diabetes, but is often used off-label for weight loss.

Semaglutide is a synthetic version of glucagon-like peptide-I (GLP-1). GLP-1 is released in response to food and acts on receptors in the brain, primarily in areas involved in appetite regulation.

Semaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus, which reduces feelings of hunger and increases feelings of fullness leading to lower calorie intake, promoting weight loss.

Semaglutide slows gastric emptying slowing the rate at which food leaves the stomach, prolonging feelings of fullness after eating.

It also improves insulin sensitivity by enhancing insulin secretion and reducing glucagon levels when blood glucose levels are high, helping regulate blood sugar levels, which is especially beneficial in those with type 2 diabetes.

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)

Mounjaro mimics the action of two natural hormones: GLP-1 and Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide (GIP):

Both receptors are present on many cells in the body. GIP further enhances insulin release and improves insulin sensitivity.

Body weight and body fat mass reduction is achieved by decreased food intake as a result of appetite regulation and modulation of fat utilisation.

Studies show Mounjaro has an additive effect in reducing appetite and body weight over GLP-1 agonists alone.

Possible Side Effects

Not everyone will experience side effects from weight loss injections, and these will vary from person to person, and with dosages.

Side effects include:

·      Nausea, vomiting, bloating, gastritis

·      Gallstones

·      Diarrhoea or constipation

·      Fatigue and headaches

·      Hair Loss

·      Hypoglycaemia and diabetic retinopathy (in type 2 diabetes)

·      Dizziness, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation (with Mounjaro)

·      Pancreatitis

·      Increases heart rate

·      Thyroid tumours

So Why Work With a Nutritional Therapist if You’ve Chosen to Use Weight Loss Injections?

Together we can:

• Minimise the side effects of the injections. Side effects vary from person to person but together we can make a plan to address them.

• Address potential nutrient deficiencies that may arise because of reduced food intake, or because of poorer dietary choices prior to weight loss injections.

• Support your gut health and overall wellbeing.

• Build sustained change so that once you cease the injections, you maintain your current weight.

Strategies to Maintain Weight Loss when Coming Off Weight Loss Injections

1. Have a transition plan - ideally work with your Doctor to taper off the medication. Sudden stopping can cause a big appetite rebound, making it harder to maintain your weight.

2. Establish consistent habits while still on the injections. Think 3 regular meals per day, prepping and planning balanced meals. This will make the transition off the injections much easier.

   
   

   

   
   

3. Prioritise protein and fibre. High protein meals keep you full and maintain muscle, high fibre meals slow digestion and curb hunger. Aim for protein at each meal and plenty of colourful vegetables, fruits and legumes.

4. Strength training to protect your muscle mass and easier weight maintenance (more muscle = higher metabolism). 2-3 days per week of strength alongside daily walking or movement.

   
   

   

   
   

5. Accept that hunger may return. Don't be hard on yourself. Instead make conscious choices to eat 3 balanced meals per day, eat mindfully (slow down, chew thoroughly, check hunger before a second helping).

Strategies to Support GLP-1 and GIP via Diet and Lifestyle

With the right strategies, you can support your body naturally to increase GLP-1 and GIP secretion to promote weight loss, improve cardiovascular health, regulate blood sugar and avoid the side effects and risks of the medications.

1. Dietary fats - stimulate GLP-1 and GIP secretion by activating receptors in the intestines. Include: avocados, nuts and seeds, extra virgin olive oil and fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon and sardine.

2. Protein - increases GLP-1 secretion and GIP secretion and promotes fullness. Include protein in each meal especially breakfast. Think eggs, lean meats, Greek yogurt, plant based proteins such as tofu and tempeh.

3. Fibre - soluble fibre slows gastric emptying and promotes production of GLP-1 in the gut. Short chain fatty acids produced by gut bacteria during fibre fermentation may support gut hormone secretion, including GIP. Include oats, whole grains, lentils, chickpeas, fruits and vegetables.

4. Exercise - enhances GLP-1 levels and increases the body's sensitivity to it. It also improves the sensitivity of GIP's action on insulin secretion.

5. Hydrate - 1.5-2 litres of filtered water per day to support overall gut health. This positively influences GLP-1 and GIP secretion.

6. Fermented foods and prebiotics - a healthy microbiome supports GLP-1 and GIP secretion. See my blog on probiotics and prebiotics for more information https://www.laurabealesnutrition.co.uk/post/prebiotics-and-probiotics

7. Don't overeat - this desensitises the hormone to gut secretion: smaller balanced meals.

8. Reduce high sugar and processed foods - these may impair GLP-1 secretion and insulin sensitivity.

9. Avoid chronic stress - this impairs gut hormone secretion. Where possible practice stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness and yoga. Engage in activities that promote mental well-being and bring joy and relaxation.

So What Does This All Mean For Me?!

One of the commons conversations I have with clients who are stopping weight loss injections is that they are worried about simply re-gaining the weight they have lost. Together we build strategies to support the transition.

Weight loss is about so much more than calories in v calories out. Working with a Nutritional Therapist is helpful to identify why it may have been so difficult to lose weight in the first place. Identifying the root cause to weight gain is crucial in order to make sustained changes.

If you are struggling to lose weight, contemplating weight loss injections, or looking for support whilst transitioning off them get in touch to see how I can help.

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The content provided is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material on laurabealesnutrition.co.uk is provided for information and educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your doctor and/ or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, supplement, exercise or other health-related programs.