What is Weight Loss & Why Is It Important?
Weight loss refers to reducing excess body fat to improve overall health and lower the risk of obesity-related conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and joint issues.
Common Causes of Weight Gain:
- Poor diet: High-calorie, processed, and sugary foods contribute to weight gain.
- Lack of exercise: A sedentary lifestyle slows metabolism and fat burning.
- Hormonal imbalances: Conditions like hypothyroidism, PCOS, or insulin resistance can make weight loss harder.
- Medications: Certain drugs, including steroids and antidepressants, can contribute to weight gain.
- Genetics & metabolism: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to gain weight more easily.
Losing weight is not just about dieting—it requires a combination of nutrition, physical activity, and behavioral changes for long-term success.
Who Needs Weight Loss Support?
Weight loss treatment is beneficial for individuals who:
- Have a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity).
- Struggle with overweight-related health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Experience difficulty losing weight through diet and exercise alone.
- Seek medical support to control hunger and cravings.
- Want to improve energy, mobility, and overall well-being.
Best Ways to Lose Weight & Maintain Results
Effective weight loss involves a combination of medications, dietary modifications, physical activity, and behavioral changes:
Weight Loss Medications:
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonists:
- Wegovy (semaglutide): Reduces hunger and increases satiety.
- Saxenda (Liraglutid): Verlangsamt die Verdauung und reguliert den Appetit.
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide): Targets multiple metabolic pathways for enhanced weight loss.
- Prescription Weight-Loss Medications: In some cases, doctors may prescribe orlistat, phentermine, or bupropion-naltrexone to aid weight management.
Dietary & Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Calorie deficit approach: Reducing daily calorie intake promotes weight loss.
- High-protein, fiber-rich diet: Keeps you full longer and maintains muscle mass.
- Intermittent fasting & portion control: Helps regulate appetite and calorie consumption.
- Reducing processed foods & sugar: Prevents cravings and insulin spikes.
- Hydration & mindful eating: Drinking enough water and eating slowly can reduce overeating.
Exercise & Activity Boosters:
- Strength training & cardio workouts burn calories and build muscle.
- Daily movement (e.g., walking 10,000 steps) improves metabolism.
- High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) maximizes fat loss in short sessions.
- Incorporating at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week not only supports weight loss but also helps prevent weight regain.
Behavioral & Habit Changes:
- Tracking progress (food logs, weight tracking, apps) increases accountability.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps address emotional eating habits.
- Adequate sleep & stress management reduce cortisol levels and prevent weight gain.
- Working with a health coach or therapist can help manage emotional eating, set goals, and maintain motivation.
