Obesity, pre-diabetes, and type 2 diabetes are prevalent health issues that plague a high percentage of Americans today.
Government statistics bear this out:
- 42% of adults in the U.S. are classified as obese, with 9% being considered severely so.
- More than one out of every three Americans are prediabetic.
- Over 30 million Americans suffer from type 2 diabetes.
It’s important to know that obesity is the single biggest risk factor linked with developing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Meanwhile, losing weight is often an uphill battle for people who need to do so.
However…times have changed. Today, we have more tools in the weight loss toolbox than were available even a few years ago.
Let’s take a look at how some medications and supplements are revolutionizing how patients are treated for obesity, insulin resistance, and elevated blood sugar.
Metformin: The Standard
Metformin has been a cornerstone in the treatment of type 2 diabetes within the U.S. for more than three decades. It works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and by improving insulin sensitivity.
More recent research has shown that even among non-diabetics, metformin can help people to lose weight. However…weight loss among those taking metformin is fairly modest—typically 2-3% of body weight.
Semaglutide: The First GLP-1 Agonist
Semaglutide (sold under brand names Ozempic® and Wegovy®) was introduced to the U.S. in 2017. Since then, it has become one of the most commonly prescribed medications in this country.
Semaglutide works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which helps the body to regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite. The result is better blood sugar control and significant weight loss.
Semaglutide is effective for both blood sugar control and weight management. On average, patients in clinical trials lost 15% of their body weight while on this medication.
Some patients struggle with gastrointestinal issues while taking semaglutide, but these side effects are temporary for most patients.
Tirzepatide: The Dual Threat
While semaglutide is effective for many, it only works as a GLP-1 agonist.
Just like semaglutide, tirzepatide (marketed as Mounjaro® and Zepbound®) mimics GLP-1. But…it also acts as an agonist for a hormone called GIP (which stands for “glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide”).
Like GLP-1, GIP is helpful for regulating blood sugar and appetite.
The benefits of tirzepatide include:
- Weight loss that can reach 20% or more of body weight, making it one of the most effective obesity treatments available.
- Enhanced insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
- Greater appetite suppression.
For people who need more assistance, tirzepatide’s dual action offers a more comprehensive approach to metabolic health.
Like semaglutide, tirzepatide can cause transient gastrointestinal upset for some people.
What About Supplements?
While prescription medications like metformin, semaglutide, and tirzepatide are a good choice for many patients, some people prefer to support metabolic health with more natural solutions.
For those folks, there are several supplements that have shown great promise when it comes to improving blood sugar control and assisting with weight loss. While these supplements may not be as potent as the prescription medications noted above, they can be great complements to a healthy lifestyle.
These supplements include:
- Berberine—This is a plant-based compound that improves insulin sensitivity and helps to regulate blood sugar. Berberine is often compared to metformin due to its similar but less powerful effects.
- Inulin and Prebiotic Fibers—These two supplements support gut health, thereby enhancing the production of hormones like GLP-1.
- Green Tea Extract—This extract contains an antioxidant called EGCG, which can boost metabolism, improve fat burning, and help to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids—Omega-3s reduce inflammation and help to improve insulin sensitivity.
- Curcumin—The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties that may improve insulin sensitivity, thereby helping with weight management.
Are These Weight Loss Solutions Right for You?
Metformin, semaglutide, and tirzepatide have revolutionized blood sugar management and weight loss, offering powerful solutions for people struggling with metabolic health issues. But there are also several naturally derived supplements that offer similar (although less powerful) benefits when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Whether you choose prescription medication, natural supplements, or both, the key is to find an approach that meets your needs.
Are you trying to lose weight? Renew Youth can provide the medication and supplement recommendations that will support your weight loss journey. Ready to get started? Give us a call at 800-859-7511 or use our easy contact form to schedule your complimentary 30-minute consultation.