GLP-1 drugs, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, have gained notoriety beyond weight loss. Also for its effectiveness in defending against diabetes and benefits related to cardiovascular and kidney health.
However, its use should be cautious. These medications are not foolproof and using them incorrectly can undermine the results, specialists warn.
Even experts such as Dr. Meena T. Malhotra declared to Fox Files Digital who has seen countless improvements in the health of patients taking GLP-1, particularly those with diabetes who were “very sick.”
“We observed that this sick population was doing better than diabetics taking other diabetes medications,” he added. He highlighted that they obtained improvements in brain health, memory, cardiovascular health, circulation, and liver and kidney functions.
Common errors in the use of LPG-1
Prioritize medications over lifestyle changes. Experts emphasize the importance of making changes to your diet and exercise before starting GLP-1, as these medications require a comprehensive approach. They act by slowing gastric emptying, reducing appetite and improving insulin signaling. Thus, people with pre-existing gastrointestinal symptoms may be more likely to experience discomfort or intolerance.
Lack of medical evaluation. Access to GLP-1 without medical supervision can carry serious risks. A complete evaluation is best to identify underlying problems that could affect treatment. Malhotra warned about the need for his administration. “Nobody examines the patient; they just fill out a form and bring the medicine home,” he said.
Insufficient protein intake. Consuming enough protein is essential to prevent muscle loss during GLP-1 treatment. “If you reduce calories, but do not improve nutritional status, you will lose muscle mass,” the doctor warned. “But if you eat a balanced diet with enough protein and do strength training with a lower dose of the medication, you will get better results and your health will improve.”
Dose increase too quickly. Increasing the dose hastily may cause adverse side effects. It is essential to be patient and follow a progressive protocol. “You may start to notice results in the first week or month, but some people need a higher dose over time. The key is to be patient and increase it gradually, usually month by month,” he recommended in Fox.
Poor management of side effects. Implementing changes in diet and habits can help mitigate the side effects of treatment, ensuring a more balanced and healthy experience. According to the doctor, for nausea and constipation, simple strategies can be very effective. Some patients find that ginger helps with nausea, although it is not a substitute for medical care.
Alternatives for those who cannot use GLP-1
There are several alternatives to GLP-1 medications, and the best one depends on whether the goal is to control type 2 diabeteslose weight or both. In total, options include intensive lifestyle changes, other antidiabetic medications, and, in some cases, metabolic or bariatric surgery.
Non-drug options. The bad thing is still diet, physical activity and sleeping habits, because these measures improve glycemic control and body weight. In people with DM2, weight reduction and unprecedented exercise have clear clinical benefit.
Other medications. If GLP-1 cannot be used, there are other classes that a doctor may consider depending on your case:
- Metforminif indicated and well tolerated.
- SGLT2 inhibitorswhich can also help with weight and provide cardiovascular/renal benefits in selected patients.
- DPP-4 inhibitorsuseful when looking for an oral option with low risk of hypoglycemia.
- Sulfonylureas either meglitinides/repaglinidealthough with a greater risk of hypoglycemia.
- Pioglitazonein specific profiles.
- Insulinif defense watch over is not enough with other therapies.
When weight is the goal. If the major problem is obesity and GLP-1 is not tolerated, an important alternative is bariatric/metabolic surgery in people who meet clinical criteria. Structured weight loss programs, with nutrition, exercise, and behavioral support, can also be used.
What should be avoided. The so-called “natural GLP-1 supplements” are not equivalent to GLP-1 drugs and their effect, if any, is much more limited. It is also not advisable to use GLP-1 analogues on your own outside of medical indication, due to risks and supply/safety problems.
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