What shifts are you seeing in weight-loss trends since medications like Ozempic became more mainstream?
Weight loss medications, particularly GLP-1s, have helped change the narrative about obesity. It’s considered a chronic medical condition, not a lack of motivation or willpower. However, there is increasing concern about the number of people taking GLP-1s without tracking body composition changes.
Measuring BMI alone does not capture the full picture of weight loss. Body composition testing goes beyond BMI to identify lean mass (muscle and bone), fat mass and body fat percentage. Measuring body composition allows us to customize treatment to maximize fat loss while preserving muscle and bone. Finally, when it comes to weight maintenance, you must be able to sustain the dietary patterns, physical activity and other behavioral changes.
What is most misunderstood about weight loss or weight maintenance?
Many people believe taking anti-obesity medications is taking the easy way out. In reality, medications are one of many tools used to combat obesity. There is no easy way out of a chronic medical condition.
How do you determine whether a patient is a good candidate for a GLP-1?
I use specific medical criteria along with a detailed health history, lab analysis, body composition testing and shared decision-making to determine which patients are the best candidates.
What are everyday habits that contribute to long-term health? The most impactful habits are regular physical activity, avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy body composition. Others include getting adequate sleep, minimizing alcohol intake and managing stress.
What role does stress play in overall wellness?
Chronic stress leads to an increased risk of obesity and metabolic disorders. Stress impairs the ability to self-regulate, leading to overeating, reduced physical activity, poor sleep and craving calorie-dense foods.
What are natural ways to support metabolism at any age?
It's important to prioritize strength training because we lose 3-8% of our muscle mass every decade after age 30. Full-body strength training 2-3 times per week helps maintain or build muscle mass, which is critical to metabolism. Eating enough protein (approx. 1 g per kg) also supports metabolism. Some patients may need even more. Move more throughout the day, aiming for 8,000 steps daily.