Semaglutide is an exciting new medication used for weight loss and blood sugar control in individuals struggling with obesity and/or type 2 diabetes. It works by mimicking the effects of a hormone called GLP-1 that targets areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation. Compared to other weight loss injections on the market, studies have shown that semaglutide produces superior reductions in body weight and waist circumference.
The benefits of treatment with semaglutide injections are wide-ranging:
- In clinical trials, people taking semaglutide lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks - Waist circumference, an indicator for dangerous visceral fat, was also reduced significantly
- Hemoglobin A1c, a measure of long-term blood sugar, dropped by 1.2% on average - Triglycerides decreased up to 17%, and "good" HDL cholesterol rose by 8%
- Significant improvements seen in physical functioning and quality of life - Decreased symptoms of depression and enhanced general well-being
With obesity closely linked to a myriad of other health issues like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, arthritis, and depression, promoting a healthy body weight is imperative. Timely treatment with agents like semaglutide can help high-risk individuals lose weight, lower disease risk profiles, enhance physical health and quality of life.
Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These drugs work by activating receptors for GLP-1, a hormone made in the intestines that plays a major role in blood sugar regulation and feelings of fullness after meals.
Specifically, semaglutide:
Over time, these effects promote better glucose control, reduced caloric intake, and support weight loss.
Unlike other GLP-1 drugs that need to be taken 1-2 times per day, semaglutide is formulated as a once-weekly injection. This makes it much more convenient and improves compliance for those struggling with their weight or diabetes.
When paired with lifestyle interventions like diet, exercise, and therapy, semaglutide is extremely effective for empowering people to lose weight, lower their HbA1c, get blood sugars under control, and significantly improve other metabolic parameters.
To be diagnosed with obesity, individuals must have a body mass index (BMI) higher than 30. BMI is a measure of body fat calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. Obesity is further classified into three main classes:
Those with a BMI over 27 who also have weight-related health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea may also be candidates for weight loss treatment.
Semaglutide is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition. To determine if you are eligible for semaglutide treatment, comprehensive lab testing is recommended, including:
Based on a full review of medical history, labs, BMI, and risk factors, our clinic's weight loss experts will determine if semaglutide is appropriate for you. We also provide nutritional counseling, fitness assessments, and behavioral coaching to optimize your treatment success.
Here at Balance Hormone Clinic, our certified practitioners specialize in supervised weight loss programs and comprehensive hormone optimization. We help patients struggling with excess weight, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and other imbalances achieve transformative results.
For those who qualify, our clinic's semaglutide regimen works as follows:
With this structured approach individualized to your needs, we empower sustainable fat loss and improved metabolic health. Don't struggle alone - our caring providers are here to help you thrive!
Semaglutide was originally discovered in the saliva of a reptile called the Gila monster. Scientists found that components in the lizard's saliva help regulate blood sugar, leading to the development of semaglutide as a treatment for diabetes in humans.
Creating healthy daily habits is key for the semaglutide treatment plan. When paired with the appetite-suppressing effects of the medication, an improved diet and active lifestyle can have tremendous synergistic benefits. Here are some tips:
- Focus on lean proteins, fruits/veggies, whole grains, legumes - Stay hydrated with 64 oz water daily - Limit processed foods, sugary beverages, excessive carbs - Practice mindful eating without distractions
- Aim for 150 minutes per week of moderate activity - Incorporate both cardio and muscle-strengthening - Gradually increase intensity as fitness improves - Enlist a personal trainer for accountability
- Prioritize 7-9 hours nightly sleep - Manage stress levels with yoga, nature walks - Join community fitness classes for social support - Consider counseling for emotional issues
Anthem, Arizona boasts beautiful winter weather ideal for outdoor activities nearly year round. Local parks like Anthem Community Park, Foothills Community Park, Elephant Butte Recreation Area, and Spur Cross Ranch Conservation provide plenty of walking trails and amenities perfect for exercising in nature.
For climate-controlled options, recommended fitness centers nearby include:
These facilities offer free weights, cardio equipment, swimming pools, sports courts, group fitness classes like Zumba, Pilates, cycling, and personal training.
With the rising obesity epidemic, employing solutions like semaglutide coupled with lifestyle interventions has tremendous potential. Call Balance Hormone Clinic today for a consultation to see if our medically supervised weight management program is right for you!
