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If you're like 1 in 3 Americans, or more than 98 million people with prediabetes, the struggle to lose weight and manage metabolic health markers like blood sugar and cholesterol has been a rough road, likely filled with more questions than answers. Maybe you've already contemplated turning to treatments for weight loss but are wrestling with questions about weight loss solutions, whether you’ll have to use fat loss treatments for life, and whether diet and lifestyle changes are required. By the end of this article, you’ll have a deeper understanding of these treatments, not just for weight loss but their overall impact on your metabolic health. And you'll be equipped with the knowledge to make a confident and informed decision about using them to reach your weight loss goals or for the management of metabolic syndrome that puts you at higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Plus, I'll provide practical strategies that complement these treatments, like how to maintain your muscle mass and how to address any side effects. And don’t miss the last section where I share my own journey as a naturopathic doctor navigating prediabetes for over a decade and how I’ve safely lost 75 pounds in the last year thanks to these powerful treatments.
Metabolic health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, encompassing several key factors that indicate how well your body processes energy. These factors predict your risk for chronic non-communicable diseases like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The following factors are likely familiar to you, but you may not have understood them in the context of their synergistic impact on metabolic health:
Being classified as metabolically unhealthy generally means having three or more of these risk factors. The good news is that advancements in medical science have led to the development of treatments that address these metabolic health issues. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, these treatments have shown effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels and improving cholesterol profiles. However, their significant weight loss effects have catapulted them into the spotlight as powerful solutions in the fight against obesity.
When evaluating which weight loss treatment to choose, it's essential to understand their roles within the incretin mimetic class of medications. Incretins, specifically glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), are crucial because they increase insulin release from pancreatic beta cells after meals, significantly improving diabetes management. Incretin mimetics are medications that mimic the action of these natural incretin hormones, thereby enhancing insulin secretion and offering a targeted approach to diabetes and weight management.
When considering treatments for weight loss and metabolic health, it's essential to understand how to enhance their benefits while managing potential side effects effectively. These medications are highly effective in controlling blood sugar and inducing weight loss but may cause gastrointestinal adverse events (GI AEs) such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation as well as muscle loss. Let's explore some practical strategies to curb these side effects and maximize the health benefits of your treatment:
Almost 20 years ago, I experienced unexplained weight gain and have struggled with my weight and confidence ever since. As a naturopathic physician, I struggled with imposter syndrome, feeling like my body didn’t represent the level of health I was advocating for others. But using weight loss treatments to jumpstart my journey has allowed me to lose 75 pounds in the past year. I’m no longer prediabetic, and my metabolic syndrome has completely reversed. I’ve addressed my underlying causes with Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, regular exercise, diet adjustments, and supplementation.
To maximize the effectiveness of weight loss treatments, partnering with a healthcare provider is crucial. At Silver Tree Wellness Center in Phoenix, Arizona, we prioritize a deeper understanding of your unique metabolic health needs. Our approach is grounded in evidence-based medicine, aiming to address the underlying causes of your condition.
Ready to transform your health and well-being with weight loss treatments? Contact our clinic today to schedule your first appointment. Our friendly staff is here to answer any questions you might have and guide you through the process.
Call us now at 602.675.0170 to embark on a journey to a healthier you. At Silver Tree Wellness Center, your health and happiness are our top priorities. Let us be your partner in achieving the weight loss and metabolic health goals you’ve been striving for.
Contact us and one of our representatives will reach out to you within 24-48 hours.
