- Weight loss
Success stories: how medication has helped to achieve weight loss goals
Written by: Editors
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Let’s face it, long-term weight loss is not easy to achieve. Sometimes lasting weight loss requires more than a healthy diet and regular exercise. For many people, weight loss medications are a helpful part of the process, especially when diet and exercise alone are not enough to reach their goals. In this article, we are sharing inspiring experiences of people who have achieved their weight loss goals with the help of medication. We’ll talk about the challenges they faced, how medication has helped them, and the results of their weight loss efforts.
Weight loss medications are not a quick fix or magic solution. They are tools that may help some people in their weight loss efforts. Those who have managed to lose weight successfully with the help of medications stress the importance of:
- A personalised weight loss plan: with guidance from a doctor or specialist.
- A healthy lifestyle: in which medications are used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- Realistic expectations: it takes time to lose weight, and medication may help to break through a weight loss plateau and decrease appetite.
Success story #1: Liene (age 45) – more control and confidence
Liene had been struggling with her weight for years. Despite various diets and attempts to change her eating behaviour, she kept having cravings and struggling with episodes of binge eating. After consulting one of our affiliated doctors, she decided to try GLP-1 medication.
"After a few weeks, I noticed that I was able to control my appetite. I could eat smaller portions without thinking about food all the time. Medication gave me control over my decisions. My urges were no longer in charge.
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Liene combined her weight loss medication with a high-protein diet and regular exercise. After six months, she had lost 12 kilos and felt more energetic than she had in years.
Success story #2: Marco (age 52) – from yo-yo effect to steady weight loss results
Marco couldn’t stop the yo-yo dieting cycle: as soon as he went back to eating regular meals, the pounds he lost came creeping right back. He was able to break this cycle after our affiliated doctor put him on Saxenda.
“Using medication helped me control my appetite. It not only allowed me to lose weight, but also jump-start new, sustainable eating habits. Since I’ve lost weight, my joints hurt less when I get up in the morning. I sleep better and wake up feeling well rested.”
Thanks to strength training and help from a dietician, Marco was not only able to lose weight but also maintain muscle mass. His weight has been stable for more than a year.
"For the first time in years, I can buy new clothes with worrying about the size.
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Success story #3: Nadine (age 58) – more energy and quality of life
Nadine’s weight issues were caused by chronic fatigue. Even simple activities felt like a challenge, and she struggled to find the energy to get through the day. After consulting one of our affiliated doctors, she opted for a combination of weight loss medication and supplements.
“The difference it's made to my life is hard to believe. I not only started to lose weight, but I also had more energy to do the things I wanted to do. I used to get exhausted quickly after a few minutes of walking. Now I can cycle for hours and not get tired. It feels like I can finally trust my body again. My friends say I'm glowing. I can't think of a better compliment!”
Nadine has made some minor adjustments to her eating habits and is working out on a regular basis. She is tapering off the medication slowly and so far has maintained a stable body weight.
"I feel like myself again. I love being able to socialise with my friends without worrying about my weight.
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FAQs about weight loss medications
How long does it take for weight loss medications to work?
In the first month of your treatment you should start to notice changes in your appetite. How much weight you will ultimately lose depends on your diet and lifestyle.
Can I use weight loss medications without exercise or a diet plan?
Medications can help with weight loss, but they're not a magic bullet. For lasting results, they should be used as a supplement to a healthy lifestyle.
Are there any side effects?
Weight loss medications can cause side effects, such as nausea and changes in stool. We advise you not to take any weight loss medications without consulting a doctor.
Conclusion
As the above success stories show, weight loss medications can be a valuable tool in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. The key to success is using them in conjunction with a comprehensive weight management programme, including dietary changes, exercise and medical guidance. Want to know if you could benefit from medication on your weight loss path?