Khaberni - Amid growing interest in GLP-1 class weight loss drugs, experts warn of a common mistake that may limit their effectiveness despite the remarkable results they achieve for many.
According to a report published by the Associated Press, about one in eight adults in the United States use these drugs, and over 600,000 new prescriptions have been recorded for one of the new drugs, with a large proportion of users being first-timers.
However, experts assert that relying solely on the medication is the biggest mistake, as a review covering about 30 studies indicates that the results are stronger and more sustainable when treatment is combined with lifestyle changes.
The impact goes beyond weight
These drugs work by affecting hormones in the brain and digestive system, which slows digestion and enhances feelings of fullness, but the goal, according to researchers, should not be limited to weight loss, but also to improve overall health.
Important indicators include blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol, alongside physical activity and diet—factors that play a crucial role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
A study involving more than 98,000 people showed that combining GLP-1 medicines with following 6 to 8 healthy habits reduced the risk of heart disease by 43% compared to those who did not adhere to these habits.
How to enhance the efficacy of the treatment?
Experts recommend increasing protein intake by 20 to 30 grams per meal to maintain muscle mass, along with increasing fiber and drinking between 8 to 12 cups of water daily.
It is also advised to engage in 150 minutes of aerobic activity weekly, with muscle-strengthening exercises two to three times a week, as well as getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep daily and reducing stress.
These steps also help reduce side effects such as nausea, constipation, and muscle loss, which are symptoms that may appear in some users.
Despite the encouraging results, researchers emphasize that these studies show a strong correlation between lifestyle and drug efficacy, but they do not fully prove a direct causal relationship, which calls for further research.
Doctors confirm that regular medical follow-up is essential to adjust doses and monitor any potential complications, especially since these drugs can carry rare but serious side effects.
The core message remains clear, that these treatments are not a quick fix, but an effective tool within a broader system dependent on changing healthy behavior to achieve sustainable results.
