Weight, Obesity & Metabolic Health
Evidence-based obesity care, sustainable weight management, incretin-based therapies, body composition, and long-term metabolic health. Weight management, obesity care, GLP-1 medications, metabolic health, obesity treatment, cardiometabolic health
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Dizziness and Wegovy: What’s the Connection?
I’ve recently had an increasing number of patients report dizziness while taking Wegovy (semaglutide). This has been observed in both newly prescribed patients and those who have been on the medication for over a year. The dizziness appears distinct from more common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. It occurs suddenly and unpredictably but is consistently present. What could be causing this dizziness in patients using Wegovy for weight loss? Let’s explore the science to better understand this phenomenon. What is Wegovy? Wegovy is a once weekly prescription medication containing semaglutide, which is used for chronic weight…
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Cortisol and Weight Gain: How Stress Affects Your Body
Cortisol has become a prominent topic in discussions about weight loss. Often referred to as the “fight or flight” hormone, it is closely associated with stress. Recently, many health and wellness influencers have suggested that elevated cortisol may be responsible for unexplained weight gain or the body’s resistance to weight loss. But is this accurate? Are abnormally high cortisol levels truly contributing to the obesity epidemic? Let’s take a look at what the science says. What is Cortisol? Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys. It is often referred to as…
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Mitigating Therapeutic Inertia of GLP-1 Use in T2D
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, commonly known as GLP-1 RAs, have recently garnered significant media attention. Initially developed to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes, these medications have also proven to be highly effective for weight loss and enhancing cardiovascular health. However, without proper initiation, titration, and support from the care team, they can often be ineffective and unsustainable. Patients can become stuck in therapeutic inertia. I had the pleasure of presenting on this topic with a pharmacy colleague at this year’s ADCES Annual Conference for diabetes care and education specialists. Here’s how we identified and provided solutions…
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Protein and Weight Loss: What’s the Big Deal?
You may be wondering lately what the deal is with all these high protein diets for weight loss. Atkins, Carnivore, Paleo, the list goes on. Can all that protein really be the solution to weight management? The truth is—there is some compelling evidence to support increased protein intake for weight loss
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Non-Nutritive “Artificial” Sweeteners and Weight Loss
A new study recently presented at the European Congress on Obesity found that replacing regular table sugar with non-nutritive or “artificial” sweeteners can help adults maintain weight loss with no added risk of developing type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Interestingly, this recommendation is at odds with the World Health Organization (WHO), which advises against using sugar substitutes for weight loss. So you may be wondering how you can best maintain weight loss while minimizing the health risks associated with sugar and non-nutritive sweeteners? Navigating these Recommendations The conflicting recommendations highlight the complexity of dietary science and individual health needs.…
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GLP-1 Injectables for Older Adults
With the increasing interest in and popularity of GLP-1 injectable medications, there is a growing concern about their safety when used with older adults. This article reviews some of the benefits and concerns associated with the use of GLP-1 injectable medications in advanced age. Are GLP-1’s Appropriate for Older Adults? In general, age is not a contraindication to using GLP-1 medications. Individuals of any age can experience weight loss and improved metabolic health with a once-weekly injectable. In fact, medications like Ozempic or Trulicity can be safer options compared to others such as insulin or sulfonylureas, as they rarely cause…
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Your Weight Matters: Key Messages from the National Convention
This summer Denver hosted it’s first 4-day educational event for individuals concerned with weight-related issues. The Your Weight Matters National Convention is the largest National meeting dedicated to providing evidence-based strategies for individuals impacted by excess weight and obesity. The organizer, Obesity Action Coalition, is a national non-profit organization dedicated to giving a voice to those affected by the disease of obesity and helping individuals along their journey toward better health through education, advocacy and support.
