Weight loss is a multi-billion dollar industry, so it should come as no surprise that a number of drug manufacturers are looking to create a pill that can mimic some of the natural effects of diet and exercise. And while there currently are some weight loss pills on the market, research suggests that they may lead to some unwanted side effects.
According to a new study from Novo Nordisk, patients who discontinue use of the use of weight loss drugs such as Wegovy risk regaining their original body weight in about five years. The individual profile suggests that patients could gain back about half their original body weight in 2-3 years if they stop the treatment.
Moreover, there have been some concerning claims about the type of weight a patient stands to lose on this drug. Previous studies have found that while these weight loss drugs can help you lose fat, you also stand to lose muscle mass, which is not something you would experience through a standard weight loss program that focused on dietary improvements and increased exercise.
When you end up gaining back this weight like this study found, you’re not gaining back fat and muscle at the same rate that you lost it. You’re gaining more fat and less muscle, which again is problematic.
No Magic Pill
As we’ve said on the blog in the past and we’ll say here again, there is no magic pill that can help you lose weight without any negative side effects. With any drug, there will always be potential risks and side effects, and they are certainly not an ideal substitute for some old fashioned improvements to your diet and exercise regimen. We know that this is easier said than done, but just know that these diet pills aren’t helping you lose the best kind of weight, and once you stop, odds are that weight will come back.
Losing weight can help to reduce your risk of a number of different lower body conditions and take some strain off your feet and ankles, but it won’t be easy. While we focus on foot and ankle conditions, we are more than capable of helping you find a diet and exercise program that is right for you so that you can improve your overall health. If you have questions or concerns about any specific diet, exercise program or weight loss pill, we’d be happy to be your resource.