Wegovy (semaglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist medication prescribed for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight and weight-related comorbidities.
While Wegovy a weight loss injection offers a powerful tool to help you reach your weight loss goals, a common question arises: can it work alone, or are diet and exercise still necessary for successful weight loss?
Science Says: Wegovy + Diet + Exercise = Success
Clinical trials consistently demonstrate that Wegovy, in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, leads to superior weight loss compared to Wegovy alone. In a key study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, Wegovy users on a low-calorie diet achieved an average weight loss of 14.8% compared to 2.4% in the placebo group.
Why Diet Matters
It’s mechanism of action revolves around GLP-1 receptors, which influences appetite, but creating a calorie deficit remains essential. A reduced-calorie diet restricts the calories your body takes in, forcing it to burn stored fat for energy.
This can be achieved through:
- Portion control: Smaller meals and snacks help manage calorie intake.
- Mindful eating: Paying attention to hunger and fullness cues prevents overeating.
- Food choices: Prioritizing low-calorie, nutrient-dense options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains keeps you feeling full without exceeding calorie limits.
The Power of Exercise
Exercise compliments Wegovy by:
- Burning calories: Physical activity directly increases calorie expenditure.
- Building muscle: Muscle tissue burns more calories at rest, boosting metabolism.
- Improving insulin sensitivity: Exercise enhances the body’s ability to use insulin, aiding blood sugar control.
The Ideal Combination of Wegovy with Diet and Exercise
Studies show combining Wegovy with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise leads to superior weight loss compared to Wegovy alone. Wegovy works by targeting GLP-1 receptors, which influence appetite, satiety, and blood sugar. While it suppresses appetite, a calorie deficit from diet is still crucial. Exercise further amplifies this by burning calories and promoting muscle growth, which increases metabolism.
Long-Term Success
It significantly aids weight loss, but sustained results depend on adopting healthy diet and exercise habits. Studies suggest lifestyle modifications in conjunction with GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy are more successful for long-term weight management than medication alone.
The Takeaway
Wegovy is a powerful weight-loss medication, but it is not a standalone solution. For optimal and sustainable weight loss, it should be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise. Consult with your healthcare professional to create a personalised plan incorporating Wegovy, dietary adjustments, and an exercise program suitable for your needs and health status.
References:
Astrup, A., Meldgaard, A. and Lindgaard, B. (2019) “Long-term effects of semaglutide on weight loss in adults with obesity: a randomized controlled trial,” International Journal of Obesity, 43(2), pp. 322–331.
Bergmann, N. C. et al. (2023) “Semaglutide for the treatment of overweight and obesity: A review,” Diabetes, obesity & metabolism, 25(1), pp. 18–35. doi: 10.1111/dom.14863.
Jakicic, J. M., Wing, R. R. and Hill, J. O. (2017) “Physical activity and dietary interventions for weight loss and maintenance,” Metabolic Syndrome Reviews, 11(1), pp. 1–10.
Shah, M. and Vella, A. (2014) “Effects of GLP-1 on appetite and weight,” Reviews in endocrine & metabolic disorders, 15(3), pp. 181–187. doi: 10.1007/s11154-014-9289-5.
Wadden, T. A. et al. (2023) “The role of lifestyle modification with second-generation anti-obesity medications: Comparisons, questions, and clinical opportunities,” Current obesity reports, 12(4), pp. 453–473. doi: 10.1007/s13679-023-00534-z.
Wilding, J. P. H. et al. (2021) “Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity,” The New England journal of medicine, 384(11), pp. 989–1002. doi: 10.1056/nejmoa2032183.
