Weight loss has never been an easy feat, particularly when factors outside of your control are impacting your ability to lose weight effectively or sustainably with diet and exercise alone. Genetics, metabolism, and hormonal imbalances can all have negative effects on weight and make it incredibly hard to get the weight off without sufficient support.
This is why pharmaceutical companies were overjoyed when they found that a medication mechanism, originally prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes, had incredible weight loss results for those living with obesity.
Now that medical governance bodies have approved some of these medications for the treatment of obesity, the world of weight health management has totally transformed. But what are GLP-1s, and how do they work for weight loss?
What are GLP-1s?
GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, is a hormone naturally produced in the stomach when we have eaten a meal. This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating appetite, glucose metabolism, and energy balance in the body.
It stimulates insulin secretion to regulate blood sugar, supresses glucagon to reduce hunger levels, and delays the emptying of the stomach to increase feelings of being satisfied and full after a meal.
How do GLP-1s injections work?
GLP-1s injections have active ingredients that work by activating GLP-1 receptors in the body, called GLP-1 receptor agonists. This mimics the effect of the naturally occurring hormone and leads to several beneficial effects for weight loss. Firstly, they help suppress the appetite, making it easier to follow a reduced-calorie diet. This can result in decreased food intake and a calorie deficit, which is essential for weight loss.
Stimulating GLP-1s also regulates blood sugar levels and promote insulin secretion, helping to control cravings for sugary and high-calorie foods, and they slow down the emptying of the stomach, leading to increased feelings of fullness and satiety. Finally, GLP-1s increase metabolism, leading to higher energy expenditure, even at rest. This combination of effects helps individuals achieve weight loss by creating a favourable environment for calorie reduction and increased energy expenditure.
Contact Bodyline today to find out more about our safe and effective weight loss programmes and range of treatment options.
What GLP-1s are available for weight loss?
Several GLP-1s medications have been approved for weight loss treatment in the UK. These include:
- Liraglutide (Saxenda): Liraglutide is a prescription injectable medication that has been approved for obesity treatment and weight management in individuals with obesity (or overweight who have at least one weight-related health condition). It is self-administered once daily.
- Semaglutide (Wegovy): Similarly, semaglutide is a prescription injectable medication that is most well known in the medical weight loss industry. It has been approved in the UK for chronic weight management in individuals with obesity or overweight who have at least one weight-related health condition. It is self-administered once weekly and has been described as “game-changing” for obesity management.
There is also a combined GIP-1 / GIP dual hormone
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro): Tirzepatide is a brand new dual agonist which is a combined GLP-1 and GIP injectable therapy that has just been approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for the treatment of obesity. This groundbreaking new medication has been dubbed the “King Kong” of weight loss treatments as its results have surpassed the other single agonist GLP-1 therapies available.
Who can use GLP-1s for weight loss?
According to the MHRA and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), GLP-1s are typically prescribed to individuals who have a body mass index (BMI) that qualifies them as obese (over 30) or overweight (over 27) with weight-related health problems like high blood pressure or prediabetes.
Eligibility for GLP-1s should only be determined by a qualified healthcare professional who will consider factors such as medical history, current medications, and overall health.
Any providers promising GLP-1s like semaglutide to anyone that is interested are not regulated and could be selling black market injectable pens that do not include the correct ingredients or dosage, which can result in severe illness. This is why it is vital to do your research before considering the purchase or use of GLP-1 injections.
Additionally, those that use GLP-1s for weight loss that are not in the BMI range for eligibility can cause health problems down the road.
Dr Morgan Toerien is Bodyline’s weight, health, and wellness clinical directors
“With these medications one must be very careful, and only use them as they are intended. Everybody has a natural set point for their weight, but if people are using these medications while their set point is in the normal range, then they are creating an environment where there’s too much of those hormones. That breakdown is beyond what is physiologically healthy. You also probably find that people will take them to lose the weight and then stop taking them and the weight will go back on. They’ll end up with that up and down yo-yo effect, which is far less healthy than the long-term sustainable kind of weight loss. This is especially the case when users are not incorporating diet and exercise, and not modifying their lifestyle. But if you haven’t really got the amount of weight to lose, you can do a lot of harm to your body by losing too much.”
Where can I buy GLP-1s?
GLP-1s medications like liraglutide, semaglutide, and not forgetting the GLP-1 / GIP tirzepatide, are prescription medications and can only be obtained from healthcare providers like doctors and nurses. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who can assess your eligibility and prescribe the appropriate GLP-1 / GLP-1 -GIP medication for your weight loss journey.
It is illegal for sellers to provide prescription medication for sale without prescribing, so if you are not sure you are being prescribed by a regulated healthcare professional, it is much safer to find a different provider.
Here at Bodyline, if you are eligible for GLP-1 / GLP-1 – GIP’s medications, we can prescribe them within a fully supported medical weight loss programme guaranteed to see you lose weight and make excellent progress towards your weight loss goals. To find out more about prices and payment plans, contact us today by completing an online enquiry form or call us on 0800 995 6036.
What are the side effects?
Like any medication, GLP-1s and GLP-1s /GIP injections may have potential side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and decreased appetite. These gastrointestinal side effects are generally mild and subside over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any persistent or severe side effects. They can provide guidance and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
GLP-1s and GLP’s – GIP’s for weight loss with Bodyline
At Bodyline Clinic, we offer GLP-1s and the combined GLP-1/GIP medications as part of our medically supervised weight loss programmes. Our experienced healthcare professionals will assess your eligibility and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. With our comprehensive approach, including medical weight loss treatments like GLP-1s / GLP-1s – GIP’s injections or oral medication, dietary guidance, behaviour modification, and ongoing support, we can help you achieve sustainable weight loss and improve your overall health.
Remember, GLP-1s / GLP-1s – GIP’s are a tool to assist you in your weight loss journey, but they should be used in conjunction with a supported and personalised weight loss programme and under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals. By following a bespoke treatment plan and making sustainable lifestyle changes, you can achieve your weight loss goals and embark on a path to a slimmer and healthier you.
If you are interested in exploring GLP-1s or GLP-1/GIPs for weight loss or learning more about our medically supervised weight loss programmes, contact Bodyline Clinic today by completing an on-line form or call 0800 995 6036. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals is ready to support and guide you on your journey to a healthier, happier life.
