Weight loss drugs: Are they good or bad for your health?

Obesity is a rising concern around the globe, with one in every 8 people suffering from it, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). It is often the root cause of several other chronic health problems, which are taking a toll on young and older people alike. While weight loss may seem like the most natural solution, it isn’t the easiest for everyone. For some people, no amount of dieting and exercise may work, or other existing diseases may make weight loss an uphill battle. In such cases, prescription weight loss drugs have emerged as an option. Tirzepatide, touted as a weight-loss drug that may treat obesity and diabetes, is tipped to make its way to India soon. Elsewhere in the world, Ozempic and Wegovy have already become buzzwords in the weight loss pills market. But are these weight loss drugs good for your health?

What are weight loss drugs?

Weight loss drugs are medicines that help you lose weight. They are also referred to as diet pills or anti-obesity medicines. The purpose of these medications is to help people with weight loss. They function in several ways, including reducing appetite, preventing the absorption of fat, and boosting metabolism, explains dietician Dr Archana Batra.

Do weight loss drugs work?

Weight loss drugs are believed to be an effective way to lose weight for people who aren’t able to lose weight naturally. These medicines may help support weight loss by reducing food intake, decreasing fat absorption, or increasing your metabolism. A study published in the Endotext found that prescribed medication for weight loss may help you lose 5-10 percent of your body weight. However, many factors such as regular physical activity play an important role in your weight loss even with the medication.

According to Dr Batra, these drugs only work if you take them along with making necessary changes to your diet and lifestyle. Doing this may make your weight loss sustainable, but only if keep leading a healthy lifestyle.

What are the side effects of weight loss drugs?

Like any other medication, weight loss drugs can also lead to certain side effects. However, the side effects of the medicine may vary, depending on the medicine you are taking. Dr Batra says that medicines for weight loss can lead to some common but mild side effects, which include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Stomach discomfort
• Heart palpitations
• High blood pressure
• Rapid heartbeat
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Headaches

Neurotransmitters are released more often when stimulants are present, which can make it harder to unwind and fall asleep. Some of the more serious side effects include heart damage which is associated with older weight loss drugs, increased risk of heart attack or stroke, and addiction as well, adds the expert.

Also Read: Weight loss pills may lead to stomach paralysis, finds new study

Is it safe to take weight loss pills for obesity?

The safety of taking weight loss pills depends on various factors, including the type of medicine, your overall health, and whether you are using it under medical supervision or not.

Dr Batra explains that these medicines are generally prescribed only for “individuals who have a high BMI or body mass index.” BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adults. A doctor may recommend a person with a BMI of 30 or higher and with weight-related problems such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension may be prescribed to take weight loss pills. However, they must only be taken under the supervision of a certified doctor and should not be seen as a long-term solution.

While it is considered safe to take weight loss pills for short-term use alongside lifestyle changes, it is best to consult your doctor before starting any weight loss medication. It is also important to be aware of the potential benefits and risks of weight loss pills.

Ditch weight loss pills, try these natural methods instead!

If it is difficult for you to lose weight, you can engage in a range of sustainable and natural weight-loss methods instead of relying on medicines:

1. Eat whole foods

If you are trying to lose weight, it is best to avoid ultra-processed foods and switch to whole foods instead. According to National Health Services UK, eating a healthy diet including whole foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. It is better to avoid sugary drinks, processed foods, and high-calorie snacks.

2. Strength training can help!

A study conducted by researchers at the University of New South Wales, Australia found a new systematic review that shows that people can lose 1.4 percent of their entire body fat with strength training. Some strength training exercises like walking, swimming, and jogging when paired with regular physical activity give a healthy chance for weight loss, recommends Dr Batra.

3. Practise mindful eating

People who are trying to reduce weight can benefit from behavioral adjustments like mindful eating, which involves paying attention to signs of hunger and fullness and avoiding emotional eating. Maintaining a food journal is a useful tool for tracking eating habits. Setting attainable objectives and monitoring your advancement will help you stay fit.

4. Sleep is important!

Getting good sleep for at least 7-9 hours every night is beneficial as well. Insufficient sleep can interfere with the regulation of hunger and metabolism, which can make you gain weight, explains the expert.

5. Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is important to the weight loss process. By staying hydrated throughout the day, you can avoid dehydration, which can occasionally be confused with hunger.

You can try these natural ways to lose weight but if you want to weight loss pills, make sure that you talk to your doctor first.