How Can I Support Mental Health During Weight Loss?
It’s estimated that one in eight U.S. adults has used a GLP-1 agonist medication, according to a survey from health policy research organization KFF that was released in May of 2024. While more traditionally used to treat diabetes or to prevent heart attacks and strokes in those with heart disease, they have become increasingly popular for weight loss. In fact, of those who report taking these medications, one in five (22%) were told by a doctor within the past five years that they have overweight and/or obesity.
Side note: more healthcare providers are shifting to discussing and treating overweight and obesity as disease states and saying that a person “has” these conditions rather than using those terms to refer to something a person “is.” For example, you wouldn’t say that a person is diabetes or heart disease, but rather that they have the condition.
There are many reasons someone may want or need to lose weight. Reducing disease risk, alleviating weight-related issues such as joint pain and sleep apnea and improving markers of health are a few major motivators. For example, even just five percent of weight loss has been shown to improve markers of cardiac health. GLP-1 agonists work by triggering the pancreas to produce more insulin, reducing blood sugar levels in those with Type 2 diabetes via slowing digestion. This also makes you feel more full and less inclined to eat, which is how these medications promote weight loss.
Excerpted from Forbes
