GLP-1 Medication: More Than Just a “Skinny Shot”

It seems like there is a daily story on the potential weight loss benefits that come from GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Wegovy. But what are they, and should you consider them? We sat down with Alisia Cook, OnePeak Medical’s Fitness and Nutrition Program Manager, to find out the reality of the drug many people are mistakenly calling a “skinny shot” to learn more.

What are GLP-1 medications?

“GLP-1 is a hormone naturally produced by our bodies,” explains Alisia. “Medications like Tirzepatide and Semaglutide mimic this hormone, which helps ‘calm the food noise’ in our brains. It helps us recognize when we’re hungry and full, so we don’t under or overeat.”

Wait? Undereat? Isn’t that a good thing for weight loss?

Alisia explains that years of restrictive dieting can disrupt the body’s natural hunger and fullness cues, leading to metabolic adaptation. When this happens, metabolism slows down, and hunger cues don’t work correctly. Some people may even undereat due to these disrupted signals, leading to muscle loss instead of fat loss.

“GLP-1 is not a magic bullet,” stresses Alisia. “It’s crucial to remember that lasting weight management requires sustainable lifestyle changes. We work closely with our patients to incorporate healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and stress management techniques into our patients’ daily routines.”

She explains that if all a person did was take the medications, they would lose some weight but would plateau pretty quickly. Conversely, what we’ve found at OnePeak Medical is long-term success through lifestyle modifications and support from a team looking at your whole health as a priority, not just the number on the scale.

A Holistic Approach to Weight Loss

“We understand that weight management is a complex journey,” said Alisia. “That’s why we take a holistic approach, focusing on more than just medication. We work closely with patients to address all aspects of their well-being.”

Personalized Nutrition Guidance: Tailored nutrition plans to help patients develop healthy eating habits, including:

  • Identifying and addressing any underlying nutritional deficiencies
  • Creating sustainable meal plans that fit the patient’s lifestyle and preferences
  • Developing healthy relationships with food

Comprehensive Fitness Coaching: Expert guidance and personalized fitness plans that incorporate:

  • Regular physical activity
  • Strength training to build and maintain muscle mass
  • Stress management techniques

Mindset Coaching: Cultivate a positive mindset around food and body image by:

  • Identifying and addressing negative self-talk, comparisons, or limiting beliefs
  • Developing healthy coping mechanisms for stress and emotional eating
  • Setting realistic and achievable goals
  • What is your “Why”? Why do you want to lose weight, and what will this do for you in the long term?

Setting Patients Up for Long-Term Success

“Eventually, a person will be ready to go off their GLP-1 medication, and our goal at OnePeak Medical is to equip them with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed long-term,” said Alisia. “We focus on building sustainable habits and empowering patients to take control of their health journey.”

At OnePeak Medical, our comprehensive approach, combining GLP-1 medication, fitness, nutrition advising, and primary care, is likely why patients see so much success. Alisia shared that if a patient continues to get stuck despite lifestyle changes, they have medical providers who can look into other factors that may be contributing to why this is happening. Labs are a great window into a person’s health; they use this as another tool in their expansive toolbox. 

Who is a Good Candidate for GLP-1 Medication?

We asked Alisia to help us understand what makes a good candidate for GLP-1 medication.

“Before considering GLP-1 medications, we sit with patients to understand their needs and goals. We explore their lifestyle, eating habits, and overall health. This helps us determine if GLP-1 is the right path or if other interventions, such as improving dietary habits and increasing physical activity, are necessary first.” 

The OnePeak Medical approach differs from many other practices offering weight loss programs because it emphasizes sustainability. As functional medicine and whole health experts, we understand that band-aid approaches never last. With the lofty goal of helping patients lose weight and keep it off, a high level of accountability is required.

Key Features of OnePeak Medical’s GLP-1 Support

  • Regular check-ins: Consistent check-ins with fitness and nutrition advisers provide ongoing support, guidance, and accountability. 
  • Personalized plans: All programs are tailored to patients’ needs, goals, and preferences. 
  • Focus on prevention: Like the Boys and Girls Scout motto, “Be Prepared,” identifying potential roadblocks before they happen is essential to long-term success.
  • Creating habits for life: Creating long-term, sustainable habits that patients can maintain long after the medication stops.

Weight loss is a journey, not a destination. OnePeak Medical is committed to walking alongside our patients every step of the way, providing the support and guidance needed to achieve wellness goals for a happier and healthier life.

You can learn more about GLP-1 medication and nutrition and fitness counseling at OnePeak Medical here. All OnePeak Medical clinics have a fitness and nutrition adviser ready to support you in taking your next step on the wellness path.