Weight loss treatments and its future

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)

Did you know that in 2022, over 2.5 billion adults were struggling with being overweight? That's a whopping 43% of adults aged 18 and over! This number varied by region, with the highest percentage being in the Americas. But don't worry, there are plenty of ways to combat this issue and make healthy lifestyle choices. There are multiple treatments available for weight loss, including appetite-suppressing drugs, therapies, and various kinds of diets. In this article, we'll explore these treatments and how they work, so you can make an informed decision about which one might be right for you.

1. Appetite suppressing drugs

Are you struggling with diabetes and also want to shed some extra pounds? Then you may want to consider Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)drugs, which can help with both. These drugs work by slowing down the stomach emptying process, which helps you feel full and less hungry, leading to a decrease in appetite. Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and orforglipron are some examples of effective drugs that can be administered either through injection or orally. However, like any medication, these drugs may have some side effects such as nausea and vomiting. The long-term effects of these drugs are still under study, but the benefits of successful diabetes and weight management can be life-changing. Consult your doctor to see if these drugs are right for you.

2. Vibrating pill

Engineers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have created a novel ingestible capsule that can help control weight by simulating a feeling of fullness in the stomach. The tiny capsule, which is non-invasive in nature, vibrates in the stomach and activates stretch receptors, which in turn reduces food intake by almost 40%, according to animal studies. The pill vibrates for 30 minutes after reaching the stomach. It may stay longer in the future and be turned on/off wirelessly. In animal studies, it passed through the digestive tract in 4-5 days. This innovative approach is considered a cost-effective alternative to traditional obesity treatments and has the potential to revolutionize weight management. 

3. Cognitive behavioral therapy

Did you know that addressing cognitive factors can significantly enhance the effectiveness of obesity treatments? While most treatments focus on biological and behavioral factors, our thoughts have a more profound impact on our behavior than the situations we face. That's where Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) comes in. CBT can help you identify sabotaging thoughts and offer practical strategies to respond to them effectively, thus avoiding unhelpful behaviors. Emotional eating is a common obstacle to weight loss, but CBT provides practical solutions to break free from this cycle. By recognizing negative thought patterns, CBT promotes a more positive self-perception and sustainable approach to weight management. With its personalized approach, CBT addresses the unique needs of each individual, promoting lasting behavior change.

4. Chrononutrition

Chrononutrition is the study of how our body's circadian rhythms, gut microbes, and hormonal rhythms impact our overall health. Our internal clock regulates various physiological processes over a 24-hour cycle, influenced by external cues such as light and darkness. According to a study conducted by the University of Lille, time-restricted eating has shown a 3% induced weight loss and a 20% reduction in unintentional calorie intake. Eating at a specific time regulates digestive hormones better, paving the way to better metabolic health. A significant number of studies have found Chrononutrition to be helpful, given the evolutionary situations our body has adapted to

When it comes to weight loss, it's always better to opt for a long-term solution as it is more difficult to maintain the weight once it is lost. Clinical trials are being conducted on various weight loss solutions, including some innovative methods that are healthier and more effective. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult with your doctor before attempting any weight loss method on your own.