As the weight loss medications continue to become popular worldwide, so does the understanding that medication alone is not a magic solution. While these medications have transformed weight management for many, sustainable success often hinges on a more comprehensive, holistic approach.

With the popularity of these medications growing rapidly, one question is emerging: Can weight loss medications replace diet and exercise? The short answer: No. 

Here’s what happens when you stop these medications and why building muscle is your best defense against weight rebound.

When you're on weight loss medications, it might seem like exercise becomes less of a priority since the numbers on the scale are moving in the right direction. But losing weight isn’t only about hitting your target weight; it’s about maintaining your health, strength, and appearance along the way.

Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, decreased appetite, vomiting, constipation, indigestion, and stomach pain.

The CICO model suggests that willpower is all an individual needs to lose weight. However, a commonly overlooked fact is that the CICO model is imperfect because not all calories are processed and absorbed the same way. According to the dual intervention point model, non-motivation-related factors influencing weight loss include biological mechanisms and environmental influences.

GLP-1 RAs and dual GIP/GLP-1 RAs help with weight loss by regulating appetite, slowing gastric emptying, and enhancing insulin secretion. But they are not a magic solution. Sustainable weight loss requires lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise.

While it’s natural to enjoy the abundance of traditional foods during the Chinese New Year, resetting your health goals post-Chinese New Year is still important. Remember though that this is not about guilt but about taking sustainable steps to regain balance and prioritize your well-being.

With mindful habits and strategic planning, it’s entirely possible to stay on track without sacrificing the joy of the season

What you need to know about doctor-prescribed weight loss pills in Singapore—from effectiveness to side effects.

It takes about 8 to 12 weeks of treatment with a GLP-1 RA to start seeing the full effect. The starting dose of these medications is low, to allow the body time to adjust. This helps to minimize side effects. The dose is usually increased after 4 weeks.

Overall, GLP-1 RAs have been found to lead to weight loss of between 5 and 15% of starting body weight, though there are differences in the effectiveness of different specific medications in this class.

Although almost everyone has experienced a food craving at least once in their lives, research has found that some people experience far more cravings than others. Food cravings can lead to weight gain, and research has found that people who experience more food cravings are more likely to be obese.

Cravings can occur for many different reasons, including stress, hormone changes, lack of sleep, and environmental triggers. Although food cravings are very common, there are several effective lifestyle strategies you can use to combat them.

There are a lot of misleading marketing claims regarding weight loss supplements. In fact, many of the supplements currently being sold have not been proven to have any effect on weight control. This is why it’s important to use caution.

Just recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently issued a warning about counterfeit and compounded versions of GLP-1 RAs.

Chinese New Year means that there will be a lot of food and drinks. Although pausing your GLP-1 RA treatment may seem like a good way for you to enjoy the festivities, it is not recommended. Consult with your doctor if you intend to do so.

Appetite suppressants help to reduce how much a person eats, either by acting in the brain to make them feel less desire to eat, or by acting in the digestive system to help them feel full for longer.

Keeping an eye on body fat percentage is more important than just monitoring body weight, as it is a more reliable indicator of health risks associated with obesity and other metabolic conditions.

Small steps can lead to big wins. So set some easy and achievable health and fitness goals this coming new year.