How Prevalent Is Obesity?
In the US, obesity has reached a disproportionate rate, affecting 39.6% of adults. Equally alarming, another 31.6% are considered overweight. Some risk factors include lack of physical activity, eating highly processed and sugary foods, stress, genetics, and lack of sleep. People who are obese or overweight are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, hypertension (HTN), cardiovascular disease, stroke, and renal insufficiency. Therefore, effective weight loss strategies are imperative in combating obesity and improving overall health. Losing 5% to 7% of total body weight can lower the risk of serious health complications.
The power of nutrition
A healthy diet is essential to losing extra pounds. Different diets exist, but the process does not need to be complicated. Choosing a plan and sticking to a consistent commitment is a model for success. Popular options traditionally recommended by nutritionists include the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes minimally processed fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains. A moderate intake of yogurt, cheese, poultry, and fish with minimal red meat consumption is suggested, and olive oil is mainly used for cooking. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet was developed as a heart-healthy option to reduce saturated fat intake and is full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, fish, poultry, beans, and nuts. Working with a nutritionist for a personalized approach could help achieve long-term weight loss.
Get moving
Regular exercise is essential for weight loss and overall health. Guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week. Building lean muscle mass permits the body to burn more calories during active exercise. During nonactive energy expenditure or resting metabolic rate periods, skeletal muscle burns approximately 6 calories per pound. During exercise, caloric burn can reach over 12 calories per pound. The intensity of exercise has a direct impact on calories burned. Exercise physiology studies indicate that 1 hour of running in a 73kg person would burn approximately 606 calories while walking would burn 314 calories.
Leveraging the synergistic effect of GLP-1s
Glucagon-like peptide-1s (GLP-1s) are hormones that naturally regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. Large randomized clinical trials have consistently demonstrated the effectiveness of GLP-1s in achieving weight loss. After 12 weeks of GLP-1 administration, most users lose a mean of 6% of total body weight and 12% by week 28. As many GLP-1s are in short supply from extreme popularity, compounding pharmacies can offer the same active ingredients as brand-name versions with better accessibility and affordability. Long-term weight loss can be achieved with GLP-1s, but studies reveal that weight gain is common after cessation. A more permanent solution includes combining a GLP-1 with an improved diet and regular exercise.
Optimize your weight loss journey
Obesity has become a major health problem in the US, leading to increased risks for serious health conditions. Effective weight loss strategies involve incorporating a healthy diet, regular exercise, and, for superior results, a compounded GLP-1. Navigating the many options can often be overwhelming, and seeking a comprehensive plan is essential to living a healthy life. A healthcare provider and compounding pharmacist can provide individualized plans to effectively hit target weight loss goals, optimizing health and wellness.
