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Pros and cons of weight loss injections

Weight loss injections are designed to help with weight management by slowing down your digestion and making you feel fuller after eating. These injections have become popular as a way to lose weight quickly, but there are advantages and disadvantages to be considered.

Benefits of weight loss injections

1. Improved and rapid weight loss

Weight loss injections can start having an effect on appetite within the first few days of taking the first dose, while people typically see a change in weight within a few weeks. A trial of the popular brand, Mounjaro, saw a 20% weight reduction after 72 weeks of treatment. Many users notice a meaningful difference far sooner than they would through traditional methods alone.

2. Reduced appetite and cravings

If you feel like you’re struggling with portion control, emotional eating or maintaining a healthy diet, weight loss injections can help you with that. These jabs work to lower your appetite and make you feel fuller throughout the day, leading to smaller portions and less snacking. This can be a starting point for developing healthier eating habits and promoting long term weight management.

3. Lower blood sugar levels

Some medication for weight loss injections can also be used to treat type 2 diabetes as it lowers blood sugar levels. Even for those who don’t have diabetes, this would be beneficial since a balanced blood glucose can improve mood, sleep quality, focus and energy, while high blood sugar levels may lead to long-term damage of blood vessels, kidneys and nerves.

4. Motivational boost

It’s really encouraging to be actively working on your weight loss plan and seeing results within the first few weeks. Even the smallest changes can have large improvements on self-esteem, energy and motivation. This method may also feel easier and less overwhelming than working on a diet and exercise plan for some. Continuing to see results and changes in weight will encourage you to keep it up.

Limitations of weight loss jabs

1. Possible side effects

Like any medical treatment, there is always a risk of possible side effects that differ from person to person. This can include nausea, digestive issues, dizziness and headaches, so it’s important to understand the risks of weight loss injections before committing. However, dosages start small to minimise side effects as much as possible and you may find the side effects even wear off after a while.

2. Not a one-time fix

Weight loss injections work best when used alongside a weight loss plan that incorporates a balanced diet, regular exercise and general healthy lifestyle changes. Without considering all these other factors, results and weight maintenance may not be sustainable, with many users finding themselves regaining weight after stopping medication.

3. Not a one size fits all solution

There are so many factors that influence weight in any individual, from diet to genetics and hormones, meaning that not all weight gain may be directly affected by appetite suppression. Results will vary from person to person and may even be unsuitable for certain people due to medical history, so it’s important to speak to a healthcare professional to determine the suitability and safety of the jabs under your circumstances.

Why lifestyle changes still matter when using weight loss injections

Weight loss injections should be used to support your journey to a healthy lifestyle, rather than be the one solution to getting there. While a reduced appetite can make eating habits easier to control, it’s still important to learn long-term skills to consistently maintain a balanced diet or to exercise regularly. Building healthy living patterns and routines can help make progress more stable and sustainable once weight loss injections are no longer necessary.

Need some extra support on your weight loss journey?

LiveWell Dorset are always here to help by offering guidance on how to create meaningful, long-lasting changes for a happier, healthier lifestyle. We have a wonderful team of expert coaches and advisors to support you by creating a health and fitness plan that’s tailored to your personal goals.

Alongside our assessment of eligibility for weight loss jabs, our FREE offers also include:

Three months membership at your local Slimming World Group

Access to the Second Nature App for convenient online support

Six sessions of 1-2-1 coaching with a Behaviour Change Coach

Bespoke exercise ideas to help you become more active

Tools to help you self-manage your journey, including our LiveWell Finder service

How does this work?

The tailored approach LiveWell Dorset uses to come up with solutions to the things that are stopping us achieving our goals, is based upon work done by University College London developing the COM-B model of behaviour change. In this model, all behaviour is influenced by understanding a person’s capability to change, their opportunity to change and their motivation to change. By understanding which of these is the biggest barrier to change, we can tailor support accordingly. This model of behaviour change is at the centre of the support we offer, online and in person.

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