What to Consider Before Starting Semaglutide for Weight Loss Q&A

Semaglutide has proven to be highly effective in helping patients reduce weight, especially when used as part of a comprehensive medical weight management plan that includes dietary and exercise interventions.

It functions by mimicking the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone that is naturally produced in the body, signaling feelings of fullness and slowing the emptying of food to keep individuals fuller for longer periods. This dual mechanism not only minimizes food cravings but also discourages harmful behaviors like overeating or frequent snacking, which can undermine weight loss efforts.

In clinical trials, individuals have achieved significant weight loss, often losing up to 10 to 15% of their starting body weight over a year. Even a modest 5% loss of their starting weight among obese and overweight individuals can lead to considerable health improvements and lower the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease.

This life-changing potential of semaglutide is also linked to boosts in sleep quality, energy levels, mood, and overall physical and mental health.

While on semaglutide, there are several things that patients should avoid to achieve the best results and minimize the risk of side effects. Patients need to avoid foods that can delay gastric emptying or exacerbate gastrointestinal issues.

This includes foods high in saturated or trans fats, spicy foods, and those with a high sugar content, like baked goods, ice cream, candy, and other desserts. Alcohol consumption should also be minimized. Patients must ensure they discuss any other medications they are taking with their healthcare provider to avoid adverse interactions.

Semaglutide is not recommended for use by pregnant individuals or those planning to become pregnant within two months. The specialists at True Medical Aesthetics can provide detailed guidance on what to avoid during semaglutide treatment to maximize its effectiveness.

Maximizing the results of semaglutide involves strict adherence to a medical weight management plan, which is designed in collaboration with specialists and tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Patients should try to halve their regular meal portions, which, thanks to semaglutide’s mechanism of action, should still promote feelings of satiety.

It is also recommended that patients wait 15 to 20 minutes after eating half their meal to determine if they are still hungry before continuing. Including a high intake of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins in the diet can help maintain feelings of fullness and support a strong metabolism. Patients should aim for a reduced-calorie diet, eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day, and focus on nutrient-rich foods.

Avoiding processed and sugary foods and increasing water intake are also important. Regular physical activity, including a variety of aerobic exercises and strength training, should be incorporated to support weight loss.

The rate of weight loss with semaglutide varies from person to person, influenced by individual factors such as starting weight, metabolic rate, and adherence to a comprehensive medical weight management plan. Semaglutide is designed to promote steady and sustainable weight loss, typically aiming for a loss of one to two pounds per week.

While some patients may experience more rapid weight loss, especially in the initial months, the primary goal is to achieve weight loss that is healthy and maintainable over time. Most weight loss with semaglutide occurs during the first four to five months of treatment, with many patients in clinical trials reporting a loss of 10 to 15% of their starting weight over a year.

This is closely monitored and managed by healthcare providers at True Medical Aesthetics to ensure that each patient’s weight loss journey is both effective and safe, adjusting treatments as necessary to optimize health outcomes.

In Avon, CT, we provide semaglutide, which can aid in long-term weight control and the fight against obesity. For more information, please contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 50 Avon Meadow Ln, Avon, CT 06001. We serve clients from Avon CT, Simsbury CT, Canton CT, Bloomfield CT, Farmington CT, Burlington CT, and surrounding areas.