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Achieve Sustainable Weight Loss with GLP-1 Medication: Setting Realistic Goals

Written by: Linda Moleon

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Published on

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Time to read 10 min

Introduction

Losing weight can feel overwhelming, but with the help of GLP-1 medications, achieving meaningful, sustainable weight loss is more attainable than ever. Research shows that Tirzepatides, a leading GLP-1 medication, can help individuals lose up to 22% of their body weight, while Semaglutides offer a remarkable average weight loss of 15%. These GLP-1 medications have revolutionized the approach to weight management by addressing hunger and enhancing feelings of fullness, making it easier to maintain a calorie deficit. GLP-1 medications, or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, mimic a natural hormone in the body that regulates appetite and glucose metabolism. By reducing hunger and promoting satiety, these GLP-1 medications help control caloric intake, paving the way for successful weight management. Setting realistic weight loss goals is a critical step in ensuring long-term success with these medications. By considering your health, lifestyle, and personal preferences, you can establish objectives that are both achievable and motivating, leading to lasting changes in habits. In this article, we’ll explore how GLP-1 medications can support your weight loss journey and provide practical strategies for setting attainable goals. Whether you’re aiming for moderate weight loss or a transformative health journey, understanding how to create realistic targets will set the foundation for your success. Let’s begin this journey toward better health with the power of GLP-1 medications.

Understanding Sustainable Weight Loss using GLP-1 medications

Sustainable weight loss isn’t just about losing pounds quickly; it’s about making long-term lifestyle changes that promote overall health. Instead of relying on fad diets or extreme measures, focus on habits that can be maintained indefinitely. Gradual and steady progress is often healthier and more effective than rapid weight loss.


A key factor in achieving sustainable weight loss is setting realistic goals. For example, targeting 1-2 pounds of weight loss per week is both safe and achievable for most people. This incremental approach supports better adherence to lifestyle changes and reduces the risks of muscle loss or metabolic slowdown.


It’s also important to remember that weight loss is not always a straight path. Fluctuations are normal, and viewing weight loss as a journey rather than a destination helps reduce frustration. By focusing on progress, not perfection, you can stay committed to the long-term changes necessary for lasting success.

Setting Realistic Goals

Evaluate your baseline: Assess your current weight, body composition, and health factors like age, gender, and medical history to set a foundation.

Define realistic goals: Focus on both scale and non-scale victories, such as improved energy, fitness performance, or fitting into certain clothes.

Break goals into milestones: Set smaller, short-term objectives (e.g., losing 2-5% of body weight in a month) to track progress and celebrate achievements.

Prioritize habit-building: Cultivate sustainable behaviors that align with long-term success, focusing on lifestyle changes over quick fixes.

Reassess and adjust: Regularly evaluate progress and refine goals to stay motivated and achieve sustainable weight loss.

Benefits of Using GLP-1 Medication for Weight Loss

Benefits of GLP-1 Medications for Sustainable Weight Loss

  • Appetite suppression: GLP-1 medications mimic the GLP-1 hormone, signaling fullness to the brain, reducing hunger, and curbing overeating.
  • Improved metabolism: GLP-1 enhances insulin sensitivity, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and minimizes energy fluctuations, supporting dietary and exercise goals.
  • Fat loss with muscle preservation: GLP-1 medications promotes fat loss while maintaining lean muscle mass, improving body composition and boosting metabolism.
  • Supports overall well-being: Using GLP-1 medications leads to sustained weight loss, better physical performance, and enhanced energy levels for a healthier lifestyle.
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How GLP-1 Medication Works for Weight Loss

Understanding how GLP-1 medications work can empower users to make the most of their weight loss efforts. These GLP-1 medications act as agonists to GLP-1 receptors, which are found in various parts of the body, including the brain and pancreas. When activated, these receptors help regulate appetite, food intake, and glucose metabolism. By enhancing the body’s natural regulatory mechanisms, GLP-1 medications create an environment conducive to weight loss.


One of the primary ways GLP-1 medications promote weight loss is by slowing gastric emptying. This means that food remains in the stomach for a longer period, leading to prolonged feelings of fullness after meals. Consequently, individuals may consume fewer calories throughout the day without feeling deprived. Additionally, the delayed gastric emptying can help minimize post-meal blood sugar spikes, further contributing to stable energy levels and reduced cravings.


Moreover, GLP-1 medications influence the brain’s reward system, which plays a crucial role in food choices and eating behaviors. By promoting satiety and reducing the desire for high-calorie foods, these GLP-1 medications can help users develop healthier eating habits over time. This shift in mindset and behavior is essential for achieving and maintaining weight loss, as it fosters a more positive relationship with food.


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Incorporating Healthy Eating Habits into Your Weight Loss Journey

While GLP-1 medications can significantly aid in weight loss, they work best when combined with healthy eating habits. Adopting a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for fueling your body and supporting overall well-being. Focus on incorporating whole, minimally processed foods into your meals, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods not only provide essential nutrients but also promote satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer.


Portion control is another vital aspect of healthy eating. Even when consuming nutritious foods, it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes to maintain an appropriate caloric intake. Consider using smaller plates or measuring portions to avoid overeating. Additionally, practicing mindful eating—slowing down and savoring each bite—can enhance your dining experience and help you better recognize your body’s hunger and fullness cues.


Meal planning can be a powerful tool in supporting your weight loss journey. By preparing healthy meals and snacks in advance, you can avoid the temptation of fast food or unhealthy choices when hunger strikes. Take some time each week to plan your meals, create a shopping list, and prepare food in batches. This proactive approach can save time and make it easier to stick to your dietary goals, ultimately promoting long-term success.


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The Importance of Regular Physical Activity for Sustainable Weight Loss

Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine is crucial for achieving sustainable weight loss. Exercise not only helps burn calories but also contributes to overall health and well-being. It can improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen muscles, and enhance flexibility. Additionally, engaging in regular physical activity can boost mood and reduce stress, which may help mitigate emotional eating tendencies.


When starting an exercise program, it’s essential to choose activities that you enjoy. This will make it easier to stay consistent and committed over the long term. Whether it’s walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, or participating in group classes, finding a form of exercise that you love will make the process more enjoyable. Aim for a mix of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility work to create a well-rounded fitness routine.


Setting specific fitness goals can also enhance motivation and accountability. These goals could include increasing the duration or intensity of workouts, participating in a local race, or mastering a particular skill, such as lifting a certain weight or completing a yoga pose. Tracking your progress through fitness apps or journals can provide a sense of accomplishment and encourage you to stay on track with your exercise regimen.


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Monitoring Progress and Making Adjustments

Tracking your weight loss progress is an essential part of maintaining motivation and ensuring that you’re on the right path. Regularly weighing yourself can provide valuable insight into your journey, but it’s important to remember that the number on the scale is not the only indicator of success. Consider keeping a journal to record not just your weight but also your food intake, exercise routines, and how you feel physically and emotionally.


Monitoring progress allows you to identify patterns and make necessary adjustments to your approach. If you notice that your weight loss has plateaued, it may be time to reassess your eating habits or exercise routine. Perhaps you need to increase your physical activity or adjust your caloric intake. Being proactive and flexible in your approach can help you overcome obstacles and continue making progress toward your goals


It’s also crucial to celebrate your achievements, regardless of how small they may seem. Recognizing and rewarding your efforts can boost motivation and reinforce positive behaviors. Instead of using food as a reward, consider treating yourself to a new workout outfit, a massage, or a fun outing with friends. These non-food rewards can help you stay focused on your weight loss journey while also promoting a positive mindset.


Potential Side Effects and Considerations When Using GLP-1 Medication

While GLP-1 medications can be effective tools for weight loss, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and considerations. Some common side effects of GLP-1 medications include gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These symptoms are usually mild and tend to diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, it’s essential to communicate with your healthcare provider about any discomfort you experience in using GLP-1 medications.

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Zepbound, Rybelsus, Metformin, Contrave, Tirzepatide, Mounjaro, GLP-1 medications, Body Good Studio, GLP-1 constipation, GLP-1 kidney

Before starting GLP-1 medication, it’s crucial to discuss your medical history with your doctor. Certain conditions or medications may contraindicate the use of GLP-1 medications, so an individualized approach is necessary. Your healthcare provider will help assess whether this GLP-1 treatment option is suitable for you and guide you through the process, ensuring that you understand how to use it effectively and safely.


Staying informed about your medication and potential side effects is important for your overall well-being. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Remember that while GLP-1 medications can support weight loss, they are most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

Conclusion: The Role of GLP-1 Medication in Achieving Sustainable Weight Loss

At Body Good Studio (BGS), we understand that weight loss is not just about numbers on a scale—it’s about transforming your life for the better. That’s why we offer comprehensive support to help you achieve sustainable results with GLP-1 medications like Tirzepatides and Semaglutides. With studies showing potential weight loss of up to 22% and 15%, respectively, these GLP-1 medications can be a powerful tool in your journey.


Our team, led by a double board-certified obesity medicine specialist, is dedicated to guiding you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring insurance-covered options or need self-pay alternatives, we work to find a solution tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle. At BGS, we emphasize a holistic approach—combining the benefits of GLP-1 medications with personalized strategies for healthy eating, regular physical activity, and long-term habit formation.


Embarking on a weight loss journey can feel overwhelming, but with BGS, you’re never alone. From setting realistic goals to celebrating milestones, we’re here to ensure your success. Let us partner with you in achieving not just weight loss, but a healthier, happier you. Contact Body Good Studio today and take the first step toward transforming your life.

Dr. Linda Moleon

The Author: Dr. Linda Moleon, MD

About the Author

Dr. Linda Moleon is a double board-certified Obesity Medicine Specialist and Anesthesiologist, as well as the founder and CEO of Body Good Studio. Passionate about empowering others, Dr. Moleon shares her expertise in weight loss while navigating her own journey toward better health. Through Body Good Studio, she strives to create a safe, supportive space where members can take charge of their weight loss on their own terms. Dr. Moleon understands the challenges firsthand and is committed to helping others achieve their goals with compassion and evidence-based care.

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References and Resources:

  1. American Diabetes Association (ADA)

    • Website: www.diabetes.org
    • Information on GLP-1 medications and their use in diabetes management.
  2. Mayo Clinic: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

    • Website: www.mayoclinic.org
    • Comprehensive details on medication benefits, risks, and considerations.
  3. FDA: Medications for Weight Management

    • Website: www.fda.gov
    • Official guidance and safety updates on GLP-1 medications.
  4. Endocrine Society

    • Website: www.endocrine.org
    • Research-based articles and clinical guidelines on diabetes and obesity treatments.
  5. Obesity Action Coalition (OAC)

  6. National Institutes of Health (NIH): Obesity and Weight Loss

    • Website: www.nih.gov
    • Evidence-based research on GLP-1 medications and related therapies.
  7. World Health Organization (WHO): Obesity and Weight Control

    • Website: www.who.int
    • Global insights on obesity treatment strategies and medications.
  8. PubMed - Clinical Trials on GLP-1 Agonists

  9. Body Good Studio (BGS)

  10. National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

    • Website: www.niddk.nih.gov
    • Educational resources on managing diabetes and obesity with medications.

What is Body Good Studio (BGS)?

Body Good Studio (BGS) is a telehealth platform specializing in weight loss care using injectable GLP-1 medications like Semaglutides and Tirzepatides.

What are GLP-1 medications?

GLP-1 medications are weekly injectable treatments that help regulate blood sugar levels and support significant weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness.

Who is eligible for the BGS weight loss program?

The BGS program is available to adults aged 18 and older who are not pregnant, breastfeeding, or diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

What medications does BGS offer?

BGS offers Semaglutide and Tirzepatide medications, including compounded options, as well as brand-name options like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro.

Are the medications covered by insurance?

Yes, insurance may cover medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, or Zepbound, but approval depends on your health insurance provider. Compounded medications are self-pay only.

What are the side effects of GLP-1 medications?

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and fatigue. These are usually mild and subside as your body adjusts.

How do I sign up for the BGS program?

You can sign up by visiting the BGS website, completing a health consultation, and selecting your desired weight loss program.

What payment options does BGS accept?

BGS accepts payments via FSA, HSA, PayPal, and credit/debit cards. PayPal’s 'Buy Now, Pay Later' option is also available.

What is the difference between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide is more effective, with a 22% body weight loss compared to 15% for Semaglutide. It also typically has fewer side effects.

Does BGS offer support after the weight loss program?

Yes, BGS offers maintenance programs that include oral medications or microdosed GLP-1 injections to help sustain weight loss.