Semaglutide is a medication that has been in the news recently due to its potential for weight loss. As an integrative medicine clinic, we are always interested in new approaches to treating obesity that take into account the whole person, not just the symptoms. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at semaglutide and its potential as a weight loss medication.
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a medication that was originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which means that it works by mimicking the action of the hormone GLP-1 in the body. GLP-1 is released by the gut in response to food intake, and it helps to regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of insulin and suppressing the release of glucagon.
How does Semaglutide work for Weight Loss?
Semaglutide was approved by the FDA in 2021 for the treatment of obesity in adults who have a BMI of 30 or higher or who have a BMI of 27 or higher and at least one weight-related condition. In clinical trials, semaglutide has been shown to help people lose weight by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. It is believed that semaglutide works by slowing down the movement of food through the digestive tract, which helps to reduce hunger.
In addition to its effects on appetite, semaglutide may also help to promote weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation. Insulin resistance and chronic inflammation are both common in people with obesity and can contribute to a number of health problems, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
What are the side effects of Semaglutide?
Like all medications, semaglutide can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own after a few days or weeks. However, in some cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as pancreatitis or kidney problems. It is important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of semaglutide if you are considering using it for weight loss.
Integrative Medicine and Weight Loss
At ACUMD, we believe that weight loss is about more than just taking a pill. While medications like semaglutide can be helpful for some people, they are not a magic bullet for obesity. We take a holistic approach to weight loss that involves addressing the underlying causes of obesity, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, and hormonal imbalances. Our approach to weight loss may include:
Nutritional counseling: We work with our patients to develop healthy eating habits that are sustainable and enjoyable. We focus on whole foods, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables, and we help our patients develop meal plans that fit their individual needs and preferences.
Acupuncture:can be used to address these imbalances by stimulating specific acupoints to improve digestion, regulate hormones, and reduce inflammation. By improving overall health and addressing the underlying causes of obesity, acupuncture can help to support weight loss and prevent the recurrence of weight gain.
Exercise and movement: We encourage our patients to find physical activities that they enjoy and that fit into their lifestyle. We also provide guidance on how to incorporate movement into everyday activities, such as walking or biking to work.
Stress management: Stress can contribute to weight gain by increasing cortisol levels and promoting emotional eating. We teach our patients techniques for managing stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
Hormonal balance: Hormonal imbalances, such as low thyroid function or insulin resistance, can contribute to weight gain. We use functional medicine testing to identify these imbalances and develop targeted treatment plans to address them.
In conclusion, semaglutide can be an effective medication for promoting weight loss, but it is important to address the underlying causes of obesity and support overall health and well-being. Acupuncture and other complementary therapies can be used to support weight loss and prevent the recurrence of weight gain, by improving digestion, regulating hormones, and reducing stress. By taking a holistic approach to health and wellness, we can achieve optimal health outcomes and promote long-term weight loss success. Call/text us today to schedule an appointment at ACUMD 305-204-9981
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