Exploring Sustainable Strategies for Weight Loss and Wellness

For many people, weight loss medications may not address the root causes of their weight gain, which may require making some lifestyle changes. This can make the medication an unsustainable long-term solution. GOLO's president, Jennifer Brooks, explains why one type of weight loss medication, GLP-1s, offers only a temporary solution compared to GOLO's innovative, long-term approach, which focuses on controlling glucose levels, maintaining healthy insulin levels, and eliminating conventional starvation diets.

Q: What are the limitations and drawbacks of relying solely on GLP-1 medications for weight management?

A: One of the biggest drawbacks of GLP-1 weight loss medications is that they turn off your natural hunger signals. These medications are just a way to suppress your hunger. As a result, you're not necessarily addressing the many lifestyle issues that can lead to weight gain.

Additionally, users of these medications may experience side effects such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, and even gastroparesis, a condition that slows or stops the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine.

Q: Can you provide some common root causes of weight gain that GLP-1s do not address?

A: Insulin resistance is one cause of weight gain that is often overlooked by the diet and pharmaceutical industries. Weight gain also has a lot to do with genetic predispositions and what we call the Standard American Diet (SAD) of processed foods, where our bodies aren't getting the proper nutrition to keep our systems working in balance. Emotional and stress-related eating is another significant contributor, as individuals turn to food as their source of comfort to cope with difficult emotions. Addressing these root causes forces people to change their relationship with food.

Q: Why do so many individuals regain weight after stopping GLP-1 medications?

A: The issue stems from how GLP-1 medications work for weight loss. These medications suppress the hormone that signals hunger. When the medication is stopped, hunger returns. When used by people trying to lose 20 to 30 pounds, they might initially lose weight quickly, but many regain it once they stop taking the medication. Basically, stopping the medication turns the natural hunger signal back on.

Q: What kind of lifestyle changes can support the successful transition from weight loss medications?

A: While on GLP-1 medications, it might seem easier to just skip meals and perpetuate unhealthy eating patterns, especially when it appears to be working. However, to truly confront the root issues, you must understand the importance of nourishing your body with the proper nutrients and embracing healthy eating habits rather than relying solely on medication-induced appetite suppression. Therefore, prioritizing education and establishing a supportive network are vital for a successful transition away from GLP-1 medications.

Additionally, adopting sustainable dietary habits that focus on nutrient-dense foods, regular physical activity, and stress management techniques can aid in maintaining weight loss. Ultimately, cultivating a holistic approach to health and wellness promotes lasting results. 

Q: How does the GOLO for Life® Plan compare to weight loss medications as a more sustainable approach to weight loss and wellness?

A: The GOLO For Life Plan offers a holistic approach that goes beyond the temporary effects of weight loss medications. The Plan prioritizes educating individuals on the significance of striking the correct balance of food groups and portion control, empowering them to maintain a healthy lifestyle without slipping back into unhealthy habits. The GOLO For Life Plan fosters long-term success in achieving and maintaining weight loss and overall wellness by focusing on sustainable dietary practices, regular physical activity, and mindset shifts.

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About Jennifer Brooks, President and Co-founder of GOLO

As president and co-founder of GOLO LLC, the nationally recognized wellness solutions company, Jennifer Brooks actively shapes the discussion around e-commerce and health and wellness.

Board certified in holistic nutrition and holding degrees in culinary arts and mind-body transformational psychology, Brooks’ unique perspective is one of the core elements of GOLO’s mission of empowering people by helping them transition to healthier lifestyles, whether by reaching their weight loss goals, gaining an understanding of how to incorporate exercise into their daily routines, or learning the basic principles of good nutrition.