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GLP 1, Mounjaro, Wegovy & Ozempic: How These Affect Weight Loss & Metabolic Health | Dr. Rob Lustig

Levels・39 minutes read

GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic may aid in weight loss but do not address underlying metabolic issues, potentially leading to new problems like muscle loss and other side effects. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding risks before prescribing these drugs, highlighting the need for sustainable lifestyle changes over relying on medication for long-term health.

Insights

  • Glp-1 agonists like Ozempic mimic a hormone involved in insulin release, aiding in diabetes treatment and promoting weight loss by reducing food intake, but can lead to side effects like nausea, vomiting, and muscle loss, potentially creating new issues like starvation.
  • The discussion emphasizes that while medications like glp-1 agonists may offer short-term benefits for weight loss, they do not address the root cause of metabolic dysfunction and may not improve overall metabolic health directly, highlighting the importance of understanding potential risks and considering sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term health benefits, rather than relying solely on pharmacologic interventions.

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Recent questions

  • What are glp-1 agonists?

    Glp-1 agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic) mimic glp-1 and stimulate insulin release, aiding in diabetes treatment. They also bind to brain receptors, reducing food intake and promoting weight loss.

  • What are the side effects of glp-1 agonists?

    Side effects of glp-1 agonists include nausea, vomiting, pancreatitis, and concerns about cancer.

  • How do glp-1 agonists impact weight loss?

    Glp-1 agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy are effective for weight loss but costly at $1300/month. They may lead to muscle loss along with fat loss, resembling starvation.

  • How can metabolic health be improved?

    Reduction in sugar intake can improve mitochondrial function, aiding in metabolic health.

  • What are the concerns regarding long-term use of glp-1 agonists?

    Long-term use of glp-1 agonists may not address the root cause of metabolic dysfunction and can lead to weight regain once the medication is discontinued.

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Summary

00:00

"Glp-1 Agonists: Weight Loss vs. Metabolic Dysfunction"

  • Band-Aids like glp-1 agonists do not address metabolic dysfunction but create new issues like starvation.
  • One-third of patients discontinue these medications due to side effects, not cost.
  • Dr. Casey Means and Dr. Robert Lustig discuss glp-1 agonists like Ozempic for weight loss and diabetes.
  • Glucagon and glp-1 are hormones involved in insulin release and blood sugar regulation.
  • Glp-1 agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic) mimic glp-1 and stimulate insulin release, aiding in diabetes treatment.
  • Glp-1 agonists also bind to brain receptors, reducing food intake and promoting weight loss.
  • Glp-1 agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy are effective for weight loss but costly at $1300/month.
  • Glp-1 agonists can lead to muscle loss along with fat loss, resembling starvation.
  • Glp-1 agonists have side effects like nausea, vomiting, pancreatitis, and concerns about cancer.
  • Glp-1 agonists may improve weight but do not address the root cause of metabolic issues, bypassing the problem.

17:44

"CGM reveals diet insights for health"

  • Using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for four years has taught the speaker about diet and health.
  • Simple swaps like flax crackers instead of wheat-based ones help stabilize blood sugar.
  • Certain fruits like pears, apples, oranges, and berries work well, while grapes spike blood sugar.
  • Getting quality sleep at a reasonable hour improves blood sugar levels.
  • CGM has aided in maintaining stable weight more effortlessly.
  • Levels.link offers access to a CGM and software for personalized strategies.
  • GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy may not improve metabolic health directly.
  • Weight loss from these drugs may involve muscle loss, impacting metabolic health.
  • Reduction in sugar intake can improve mitochondrial function.
  • These drugs are costly and may not address the root cause of metabolic dysfunction.

35:02

"Caution Urged in Prescribing Weight Loss Drug"

  • The speaker had concerns about the impact of a drug on mental health, particularly related to gut and microbiome issues.
  • The speaker emphasized the importance of understanding the potential risks before mass prescribing the drug to children as young as 12.
  • Weight regain after stopping the medication was highlighted, with the data indicating that most people regain the weight once they discontinue the drug.
  • The speaker warned against using the medication as a long-term solution, as it only masks the underlying issue without solving it.
  • The discussion touched on the cycle of overuse and underuse of new therapies, suggesting a need for caution in prescribing the drug.
  • Steps to prepare for getting off the medication were outlined, including involving a nutritionist and primary care physician in creating a lifestyle plan.
  • The medication was seen as a potential jumpstart to motivate individuals to make sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term health.
  • The importance of evidence-based approaches for sustained weight loss in children was emphasized, with a focus on fixing the food environment rather than relying solely on medication.
  • The conversation ended on a positive note, highlighting efforts to improve food in schools through organizations like eat real dot org and advocating for a shift towards better nutrition rather than pharmacologic interventions.
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