Starting a weight loss journey can feel a bit like standing at the bottom of a mountain. It’s exciting, full of possibility but let’s be honest, it can also be pretty overwhelming. Whether you’re hoping to drop a few pounds or make bigger lifestyle changes, one thing can make all the difference: tracking your progress.
Now, you might be wondering, “Isn’t stepping on the scale enough?” Not quite. Tracking is about so much more than just the number you see on your bathroom scale. It’s about understanding how your body reacts to what you eat, how you move, and how you live. When done right, it can help you stay motivated and make smarter choices.
If you're with SheMed, weekly weigh-ins are a required part of the programme — our proctors check and record your weight before each GLP-1 injection to keep you on track. And if you’re with another provider, it’s still worth building in your own consistent weekly check-ins. That regular feedback loop is powerful. Let’s dive into why tracking matters, how it can empower you, and the best ways to go about it.
“Why bother tracking if the scale isn’t budging?” Great question. The truth is, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes when you’re trying to lose weight things the scale doesn’t show.
Tracking doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the best methods are often the simplest.
Once a week, same day, same time that’s the sweet spot. Ideally in the morning, after the bathroom, before eating. Don’t weigh yourself daily; it’ll just mess with your head thanks to normal body fluctuations (hormones and water retention).
At SheMed, we believe that tracking your progress shouldn’t be a guessing game, it should be built into your journey. That’s why we’ve made it part of the process.
Every week, before your GLP-1 injection, a trained proctor will check your weight and ensure it's accurately recorded. No more second-guessing the scale or wondering if you're on track. This regular check-in helps you stay accountable and gives you a consistent, reliable snapshot of your progress.
Beyond the numbers, our team also encourages you to track how you feel your energy levels, sleep, cravings, and even mood. These insights, paired with professional support, help you make adjustments early, avoid plateaus, and stay motivated throughout your transformation.
SheMed isn’t just about the medication, it's about giving you a structured, supportive system to help you succeed.
Weight alone doesn’t tell you what’s really going on. Are you losing fat but gaining muscle? A scale won’t show that. Tools like smart scales or body fat callipers can give you a clearer picture, or get a pro assessment if you want more precision.
Take measurements around your waist, hips, thighs, and arms every few weeks. Sometimes the inches drop even when the scale doesn’t budge. It’s one of the clearest signs that your body is changing for the better.
Take progress photos every week or two. Same lighting, same clothes. It might feel awkward at first, but it’s one of the most motivating ways to actually see your transformation.
Are you sleeping better? Feeling stronger on your walks? Less bloated after meals? These non-scale victories matter more than you think and they’re worth tracking, too.
If things feel confusing or you’re not sure you’re on the right track, talk to a healthcare professional. Whether it’s a GP, a dietitian, or a coach, they can give you personalised advice based on your body, goals, and lifestyle.
They’ll also keep you accountable and that’s half the battle.
At the end of the day, tracking your progress is about more than just weight loss it’s about taking charge of your health and building habits that actually stick.
Not every week will be perfect. The scale might go up before it goes down. That’s okay. What matters is that you’re moving forward and you’re doing it in a way that’s healthy, informed, and built to last.
Ready to take the first step? SheMed Healthcare’s personalised weight loss programme designed to help you track smarter and reach your goals with confidence.
1. How often should I weigh myself? Once a week is plenty. Try Monday mornings before breakfast — keep things consistent. If you are with SheMed then you’ll do it before taking the next dose with our proctor online.
2. Is the scale the only way to measure progress? Definitely not. Track how your clothes fit, take photos, and pay attention to your energy levels.
3. What if progress slows down? It happens. Reflect, adjust, and focus on how far you’ve come — not just what’s left.
Starting a new treatment can bring a mix of emotions, curiosity, hope, and sometimes a little impatience. If you've recently begun semaglutide (brand name Wegovy), you might be wondering: How soon will I notice a difference? Will my appetite change in a few days, or will it take weeks? When will I start seeing weight loss or better blood sugar control?
It’s completely natural to have these questions, especially when you’re committed to improving your health. The good news is that while semaglutide doesn’t work instantly, it does follow a clear timeline. Many people begin to notice subtle changes early on, with more significant results developing over time.
Understanding when and how semaglutide starts working can help you stay motivated and set realistic expectations. Whether you're taking it for weight loss, diabetes management, or both, knowing what to expect can make the journey smoother. Let’s explore how semaglutide works and when you might start seeing its effects.
Al Text: Semaglutide vial placed on a surface, representing a treatment for diabetes and weight management, with SheMed logo at the corner.
Semaglutide is a medication classified as a GLP-1 receptor agonist (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist) which mimics the action of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1. This class of drugs is primarily utilised in the management of type 2 diabetes and has gained attention for its effectiveness in promoting weight loss, particularly in individuals with obesity.
Semaglutide works by enhancing insulin secretion in response to meals, inhibiting glucagon release (which raises blood glucose levels), and slowing gastric emptying. This results in better glycemic control and reduced appetite, contributing to weight loss. Semaglutide is administered via subcutaneous injection and is available in different dosages for varying therapeutic purposes.
Semaglutide was initially approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Clinical studies have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing HbA1c levels (a measure of blood sugar control) and aiding weight loss among diabetic patients. For instance, a pivotal trial showed that participants using semaglutide experienced significant reductions in HbA1c levels compared to those on placebo, alongside notable weight loss.
In clinical practice, semaglutide has been shown to lead to an average weight loss of approximately 5-10% over a year when used as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan that includes diet and exercise.
Semaglutide has been approved in the UK for long-term weight management in adults who are obese or overweight with at least one related health condition, marking a significant expansion of its use beyond diabetes treatment.
A major clinical trial involving 1,961 participants without diabetes demonstrated that those receiving semaglutide at a dose of 2.4 mg weekly achieved an average weight loss of 14.9% over 68 weeks compared to 2.4% in the placebo group. The trial also found that 86.4% of participants on semaglutide lost at least 5% of their body weight, highlighting its effectiveness as a weight loss drug.
Another landmark study assessed semaglutide's long-term effects on weight management and cardiovascular outcomes. In this trial involving over 17,000 participants with preexisting cardiovascular conditions but without diabetes, semaglutide was associated with a 15% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events over approximately 40 months. This suggests not only its efficacy for weight management but also potential cardiovascular benefits.
Understanding the timeline of its effects is crucial for patients considering this medication.
1. Initial Weeks (Weeks 1-4): The Titration Phase
During the first four weeks of semaglutide treatment, patients typically begin a dose escalation process, also known as titration. This phase starts with a very low dose, usually 0.25 mg once weekly. The primary purpose of this low starting dose is to allow the body to gradually adjust to the medication and minimize potential side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation, which are common gastrointestinal issues associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists. This initial dose is not considered a therapeutically effective dose for weight loss or blood sugar control, but rather an initiation dose to improve tolerability. After these initial four weeks, the dose is typically increased, assuming the patient tolerates the medication well. The full therapeutic effects are usually seen at higher maintenance doses, which are reached after a gradual escalation over several weeks to months.
2. Early Weight Loss (Weeks 4-12)
Onset of Noticeable Weight Loss
During the early phases of weight loss treatment, particularly between weeks 4 and 12, individuals often begin to notice significant changes in their body weight. Clinical studies have shown that medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide can facilitate this process. For instance, in one study, participants receiving semaglutide experienced an average weight loss of 14.9% from baseline by week 68, while those on placebo lost only 2.4%. Similarly, tirzepatide has shown a 6.9% mean weight loss after a 12-week intensive lifestyle intervention lead-in period.
Role of Appetite Suppression and Increased Satiety
The effectiveness of these medications is largely attributed to their ability to suppress appetite and enhance feelings of satiety. Semaglutide works by mimicking GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), a hormone that regulates appetite and food intake. Participants reported improved satiety and reduced hunger levels, which contributed to their weight loss success. This appetite suppression is crucial during the initial phase as it helps individuals adhere to caloric restrictions and dietary modifications.
Potential for Modest Weight Loss
During this early phase, modest weight loss is common, with many individuals achieving at least a 5% reduction in body weight. In the SURMOUNT-3 trial, participants who added tirzepatide to their lifestyle interventions achieved an additional 21.1% mean weight loss after the initial 12 weeks. This highlights that even modest reductions can be significant when combined with behavioural changes.
As individuals progress beyond the initial weeks of treatment, they may experience a plateau in weight loss. This plateau can be frustrating but is a normal part of the weight loss journey. Studies indicate that after approximately 60 weeks, participants often see their weight loss stabilise despite ongoing treatment. Understanding this phase is essential; patience is key as the body adjusts to new weight levels.
While weight loss may slow down during this phase, continued reductions are still possible. For example, in the STEP trials involving semaglutide, participants maintained significant weight loss over two years, achieving an average reduction of 15.2% from baseline by week 104. This suggests that while the rate of loss may decrease, sustained efforts can still yield positive outcomes.
Importance of Lifestyle Modifications
To maximise results during the sustained weight loss phase, lifestyle modifications remain critical. A combination of dietary changes and regular physical activity is recommended. In clinical trials, participants were encouraged to maintain a caloric deficit through diet and engage in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. These behavioural strategies not only support continued weight loss but also contribute to overall health improvements.
Individual responses to semaglutide can vary significantly due to genetic and metabolic factors. Genetic polymorphisms can influence how individuals metabolise medications, affecting their efficacy and side effects. For instance, variations in genes related to drug metabolism, such as CYP450 enzymes, can lead to differences in drug clearance rates and effectiveness. A study indicated that genetic factors could account for approximately 30% of the variability in weight loss outcomes among participants treated with semaglutide.
Additionally, metabolic rates vary between individuals; those with a higher basal metabolic rate (BMR) may experience more significant weight loss than those with a lower BMR. This variability underscores the importance of personalised approaches in obesity treatment.
Clinical studies have shown that while semaglutide is effective for many, results can differ widely among individuals. For example, in the STEP 1 trial involving 1,961 participants, the mean weight loss after 68 weeks was 14.9% for those on semaglutide, but some participants lost significantly more or less weight. This variability can be attributed to factors such as adherence to treatment, lifestyle changes, and individual physiological differences.
Adherence to semaglutide treatment is crucial for achieving optimal weight loss results. Studies have demonstrated that consistent use of the medication leads to better outcomes. For instance, participants who adhered strictly to their treatment regimen were more likely to achieve significant weight loss compared to those who missed doses.
Missed doses can severely impact the efficacy of semaglutide. A study showed that participants who missed doses experienced a 50% reduction in the expected weight loss compared to those who maintained their dosing schedule. This highlights the necessity for patients to understand the importance of regular administration and its role in achieving their weight loss goals.
Lifestyle modifications play a vital role in enhancing the effectiveness of semaglutide for weight loss. A healthy diet rich in whole foods, combined with regular physical activity, has been shown to significantly improve outcomes. In the STEP trials, participants who engaged in structured lifestyle interventions alongside semaglutide treatment lost an average of 15.3 kg over 68 weeks compared to just 2.6 kg in the placebo group.
Research indicates that lifestyle changes can amplify the effects of semaglutide. For example, incorporating at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week along with dietary changes can lead to improved metabolic health and greater reductions in body weight. A study found that participants who followed both medication and lifestyle recommendations achieved greater improvements not only in weight but also in cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Semaglutide has garnered significant attention for its dual role in managing type 2 diabetes and promoting weight loss. It is crucial for individuals considering or currently undergoing treatment with semaglutide to consult with healthcare professionals for personalised advice tailored to their unique circumstances. This guidance can help optimise treatment effectiveness and address any concerns regarding side effects or interactions with other medications.
Moreover, a holistic approach to weight management is essential. Combining medication with lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity, can significantly enhance weight loss outcomes. Studies indicate that those who incorporate behavioural modifications alongside semaglutide treatment experience better results than those relying solely on medication.
Need personalised guidance? Our expert team is here to support you. Contact us at SheMed today for tailored advice and solutions that fit your needs. Let’s take the next step toward your health and well-being together!
Frequently Asked Question
A groundbreaking study published in The Lancet’s eClinicalMedicine has found that first-generation GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), such as liraglutide and exenatide, reduce the risk of obesity-related cancers by 41% compared to bariatric surgery-even after accounting for differences in weight loss. The findings, presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO 2025), challenge assumptions about how these medications protect against cancer and highlight their potential beyond metabolic benefits.
Researchers from Clalit Health Services (Israel) compared patients treated with GLP-1RAs (≥6 monthly prescriptions of liraglutide, exenatide, or dulaglutide) to those who underwent bariatric surgery between 2010–2018. Over a median 7.5-year follow-up, 298 participants developed obesity-related cancers, with postmenopausal breast cancer (26%), colorectal cancer (16%), and endometrial cancer (15%) most prevalent.
Obesity and diabetes are linked to 40% of cancers, but this study suggests GLP-1 medications could disrupt that trajectory. “Weight loss alone doesn’t fully explain the anti-cancer benefits,” said lead author Dr. Yael Wolff Sagy. Co-author Dr. Dror Dicker emphasized the role of inflammation reduction, noting, “GLP-1RAs likely act through multiple pathways to suppress tumor growth.”
Professor Naveed Sattar (University of Glasgow), uninvolved in the study, cautioned that observational data cannot prove causation but called the results “intriguing.” Professor Mark Lawler (Queen’s University Belfast) hailed the findings as “transformational,” suggesting GLP-1 drugs could halve obesity-related cancer risk compared to surgery’s one-third reduction.SheMed welcomes this important research and is committed to keeping our community informed about advances in women’s health and weight management. We’ll continue to share updates on new studies like this, helping you make empowered, evidence-based decisions on your health journey.
The SheMed Weight Loss Programme is a female-focused, clinically supervised service designed to support women on their weight loss journey with safety and personalisation at its core. Every participant begins with a comprehensive blood test, ensuring the programme is tailored to their unique health needs and that safety is prioritised from the start. SheMed’s approach includes regular clinical oversight, monthly reviews, and ongoing support, including symptom management and educational resources. Members benefit from progress tracking, weekly check-ins, and a supportive community, all aimed at empowering women to achieve lasting, meaningful results.
Women’s Health and SheMed SheMed’s commitment to advancing women’s health goes beyond weight loss. In December 2024, SheMed launched an active clinical study to explore how GLP-1 weight loss medications may benefit conditions that disproportionately affect women, such as PCOS, endometriosis, and menopause symptoms. This research addresses the significant gap in women’s health studies-currently, only 1% of UK healthcare research funding is dedicated to female-specific conditions. The SheMed study aims to generate actionable insights on how weight loss treatments can improve not just weight, but also broader aspects of women’s health, helping to shape future care and treatment approaches.
References
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has quickly become a focal point in UK clinics, weight management services, and among patients seeking new options for obesity and type 2 diabetes. But with the excitement comes an essential question: is Mounjaro safe for your patients?
Here’s what we need to know, based on the latest regulatory guidance and clinical evidence.
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a once-weekly injectable medication developed by Eli Lilly. It acts as a dual agonist for GLP-1 and GIP receptors, mimicking hormones that regulate appetite, blood sugar, and insulin. This dual action underpins its effectiveness for both weight loss and glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes.
MHRA and NICE Guidance: Authorised, With Clear Conditions
Bottom Line: Is Mounjaro Safe?
For most patients who meet the eligibility criteria and receive appropriate monitoring and support, Mounjaro is considered safe and effective for weight management and type 2 diabetes. Its safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in large-scale clinical trials.
However, it is not a standalone solution. Success depends on patient engagement with lifestyle interventions and regular clinical monitoring. You should remain vigilant for adverse effects and contraindications, ensuring that prescribing decisions are made on a case-by-case basis with full patient assessment.At SheMed, patient safety is paramount. That’s why we require a blood test l before starting treatment, to ensure it’s safe and suitable for each individual. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the SheMed support team we’re here to help. References
Why do cravings always seem to strike at the least convenient times? After a long, exhausting day, the thought of chocolate or crisps suddenly becomes irresistible. If this scenario sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Studies indicate that up to 70% of women experience emotional eating at some point in their lives, often turning to comfort foods in response to stress, boredom, or even loneliness. These cravings can feel overwhelming, and they’re not just about hunger—they’re often rooted in deeper emotional triggers, making them all the more challenging to resist.
Emotional eating may seem harmless at the moment, but over time, it can significantly impact both physical and mental health. For many women, emotional eating leads to a cycle of guilt, frustration, and self-blame, often leading to unhealthy weight gain and a negative relationship with food. Constantly giving in to cravings can also wreak havoc on blood sugar levels, sleep quality, and overall energy, making it harder to feel balanced and healthy.
Imagine approaching food with a sense of calm and clarity, choosing what to eat based on how it truly makes you feel, rather than how it might distract from stress or boredom. With the right techniques, cravings and emotional eating don’t have to be obstacles they can become opportunities to practise self-care, patience, and resilience. If you’re tired of giving in to your cravings, there’s hope: it’s possible to take back control, one mindful choice at a time.
Emotional eating is the practice of using food to cope with emotions rather than to satisfy physical hunger. This behaviour often manifests as a response to various emotional triggers, leading individuals to consume food in order to alleviate feelings of stress, boredom, loneliness, or sadness. Understanding the nuances of emotional eating is essential for developing healthier coping mechanisms and improving overall well-being.
Emotional eating is characterised by the tendency to eat in response to emotional states rather than physiological hunger cues. This can occur during both negative and positive emotional experiences, although it is most commonly associated with negative feelings such as stress, anxiety, and sadness. A study found that about 40% of individuals tend to eat more when stressed, while others may eat less or show no change in their eating habits under stress.
Common triggers for emotional eating include:
Comfort foods play a significant role in emotional eating patterns. These foods are typically high in sugar, fat, or carbohydrates and are associated with positive feelings or nostalgic memories. For instance, a review found that individuals often crave specific comfort foods during times of distress, such as ice cream or pizza, which provide immediate gratification but do not address the underlying emotional issues.
The consumption of comfort foods can create a cycle of temporary relief followed by feelings of guilt or shame once the initial pleasure dissipates. This cycle reinforces emotional eating behaviours as individuals may continue to use food as a coping mechanism for their emotions.
Managing cravings is an essential component of effective weight management. Various strategies, including mindful eating, healthy snacking, hydration, and maintaining regular meal patterns, can help individuals navigate their cravings and develop healthier eating habits.
Mindful eating is an approach that encourages individuals to focus on the present moment while eating, paying attention to the sensory experience of food and internal cues of hunger and fullness. This practice promotes a healthier relationship with food and has been associated with several benefits, including:
A review highlighted that mindful eating can be an effective tool for managing unhealthy eating behaviours such as binge eating and emotional eating, although it may not always result in significant weight loss outcomes due to varying study designs.
Healthy snacking can play a crucial role in managing cravings and maintaining energy levels throughout the day. Healthy snack options include:
Portion control is vital for healthy snacking. Using smaller plates or containers can help manage serving sizes effectively. Additionally, timing snacks appropriately such as mid-morning or mid-afternoon can prevent excessive hunger that may lead to overeating at meals.
Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and can also help reduce cravings. Often, feelings of hunger can be misinterpreted as signals of thirst. Research indicates that drinking water before meals can lead to reduced calorie intake. A study published in Obesity found that participants who drank water before meals consumed fewer calories and lost more weight over 12 weeks compared to those who did not .
Maintaining regular meal patterns is crucial for managing cravings and preventing binge eating episodes. Skipping meals can lead to increased hunger later in the day, often resulting in overeating or poor food choices.
Regular meals help stabilise blood sugar levels and prevent extreme hunger that triggers cravings for high-calorie foods. A study published in Nutrition Journal found that individuals who ate regular meals experienced fewer cravings and better appetite control compared to those who skipped meals .
Emotional triggers can significantly influence eating behaviours, often leading to emotional eating. Understanding and addressing these triggers through various strategies, including stress management techniques, emotional awareness, and seeking professional help, can empower individuals to develop healthier coping mechanisms and improve their overall well-being.
Physical activity is a powerful tool for reducing stress. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. A study demonstrated that individuals who engaged in regular physical activity reported lower levels of perceived stress and better overall mental health compared to sedentary individuals . Furthermore, exercise can serve as a constructive outlet for managing emotions, reducing the likelihood of turning to food for comfort.
Developing emotional awareness is crucial for identifying triggers that lead to emotional eating. Individuals are encouraged to:
Research shows that enhancing emotional awareness can lead to better self-regulation of eating behaviours. A study found that participants who engaged in emotional awareness training exhibited reduced emotional eating tendencies compared to those who did not participate in such training .
Therapy and counselling play a vital role in managing emotional eating by providing individuals with tools and strategies to cope with their emotions effectively.
Addressing emotional eating and cravings is crucial for successful weight management. Emotional eating can significantly hinder progress by leading to unhealthy eating patterns that are often driven by stress, boredom, or other emotional triggers. Recognizing these patterns and implementing effective strategies is essential for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. To support this journey, readers are encouraged to practise mindful eating. This involves being fully present during meals, paying attention to hunger and fullness cues, and savouring each bite.
Mindful eating not only enhances the enjoyment of food but also helps reduce the likelihood of overeating. Choosing healthy snacks, managing stress effectively, and seeking professional guidance, you can foster a healthier relationship with food and enhance your overall well-being.
It is important to remember that seeking professional help is a valuable option for those struggling with emotional eating. Therapy and counselling can provide personalised support and effective strategies for managing emotional triggers and developing healthier eating habits.
Finding it hard to stop emotional eating—even when you’re determined to lose weight?You’re not alone, and it’s not just about willpower. Emotional eating is incredibly common, especially when stress, fatigue, or hormonal shifts make cravings feel impossible to ignore. At SheMed, we understand how tough it can be—and we’re here to help.
Our medically guided weight loss programme is designed specifically for women like you, offering not just treatments like Wegovy and Mounjaro, but also practical tools and compassionate support to manage weight. Check your eligibility today and let SheMed support you with a programme that works with your life—not against it.
Cravings for sweets or salty snacks are common because these foods can temporarily boost serotonin or dopamine, which are "feel-good" chemicals. During stress, the body also releases cortisol, a hormone that can increase cravings for high-calorie foods. Recognizing these cravings as emotional can help you make healthier choices or try stress-relief techniques.
Yes, there are several strategies. One is to pause and check in with your emotions before eating—ask yourself if you’re feeling hungry or experiencing an emotional trigger like stress or boredom. Another is to try alternative activities, such as going for a walk, doing a quick mindfulness exercise, or having a glass of water. Replacing the habit with a new routine can help break the cycle.
Emotional eating can make it harder to lose or maintain weight, as it often leads to consuming high-calorie, low-nutrient foods in response to emotional triggers rather than hunger. By addressing the emotional side of eating, it’s easier to make balanced food choices that support weight management goals.
Yes, there are several resources available. The NHS provides access to mental health and dietary support, including therapy options such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and support groups. Charities like Mind and Beat also offer resources for emotional eating and body image issues.
Night-time cravings are often linked to habits or emotional triggers. Try eating balanced meals throughout the day, with protein, healthy fats, and fibre to keep you fuller for longer. Establishing a relaxing night-time routine that doesn’t focus on food—such as reading, stretching, or enjoying herbal tea—can also help reduce the urge to snack.
True physical hunger comes on gradually and can be satisfied with a variety of foods. Cravings, on the other hand, are typically sudden and specific, such as wanting something salty or sweet. Practising mindful eating can help you become more aware of these cues and make decisions that align with your actual needs.
Yes, certain foods can help manage cravings. Protein-rich foods, high-fibre vegetables, and whole grains help stabilise blood sugar, which can reduce cravings. Foods rich in magnesium, like leafy greens and nuts, are also thought to reduce chocolate cravings, as magnesium deficiencies are sometimes linked to cravings for sweets.
Feeling guilty is common, but it’s important to practise self-compassion. Acknowledge what happened without judgement, and consider what triggered the emotional eating. Remind yourself that occasional slip-ups are normal. Focusing on positive actions, like planning a balanced meal for the next day, can help you move forward without guilt.
Have you ever felt like no matter what you do—whether it’s cutting carbs, exercising more, or trying every weight loss trend—the scale just won’t budge? Or perhaps your weight fluctuates unpredictably, leaving you feeling frustrated, exhausted, and unsure of what’s really going on with your body. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. For many women, weight loss isn’t just about calories in versus calories out it’s deeply tied to hormonal balance.
Hormones like insulin, estrogen, and cortisol play a powerful role in metabolism, appetite regulation, and fat storage. When they’re out of sync, the usual weight loss advice can feel impossible to follow, and progress can seem painfully slow. This is where GLP-1 receptor agonists medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy are changing the game. Originally developed for diabetes, these medications have shown remarkable success in helping women not only lose weight but also regain control over their metabolic health.
But how exactly do GLP-1 medications influence hormones? Can they help restore balance to a system that often feels unpredictable whether due to PCOS, menopause, or insulin resistance? And most importantly, what does this mean for women struggling with stubborn weight gain despite their best efforts? Let’s explore how these medications interact with key hormones and what this means for long-term success in managing both weight and overall well-being.
Potential Effects on Menstrual Cycle Regularity
GLP-1 agonists have shown promising effects on menstrual cycle regularity, particularly in women with PCOS. Research indicates that these medications can help restore regular ovulation, which is often disrupted in women with PCOS due to hormonal imbalances.
Research Insights
A meta-analysis found that treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists resulted in a significant improvement in menstrual regularity among participants, with a standardised mean difference (SMD) of 1.72 (95% CI 0.60 to 2.85, P < 0.001) compared to control groups. This improvement is crucial for women seeking to conceive, as regular ovulatory cycles are directly linked to fertility .
Impact on Hormone Levels During Menopause
While specific research on the effects of GLP-1 agonists during menopause is limited, the role of these medications in managing weight and improving insulin sensitivity can have positive implications for menopausal symptoms.
As oestrogen levels decline during menopause, many women experience weight gain and increased insulin resistance, which can exacerbate symptoms such as hot flushes and mood swings. By promoting weight loss and enhancing metabolic health, GLP-1 agonists may help alleviate some of these symptoms.
Interactions with Hormonal Contraceptives
The interaction between GLP-1 agonists and hormonal contraceptives is an area that requires careful consideration. While there is limited data on how GLP-1 agonists affect the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives, it is essential for women using these medications to consult healthcare providers regarding potential interactions.
Clinical Insights
A study suggests that the weight loss associated with GLP-1 agonist use may enhance the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives by improving metabolic parameters that influence hormone levels. For example, improved insulin sensitivity may optimise the conditions under which hormonal contraceptives operate effectively.
Impact on Thyroid Hormone Levels
The relationship between GLP-1 agonist and thyroid function has garnered attention due to concerns about their potential impact on thyroid hormone levels. A meta-analysis found that the use of GLP-1 agonists was associated with an increased risk of overall thyroid disorders, although no significant effects were observed on specific conditions such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism . This suggests that while there may be an association with thyroid disorders, the exact nature of this relationship warrants further investigation.
Potential for Thyroid Dysfunction
Concerns have been raised regarding the potential for thyroid dysfunction associated with long-term use of GLP-1 agonists. Some animal studies have indicated that chronic exposure to these medications may lead to thyroid C-cell hyperplasia and tumours; however, evidence from human studies remains inconclusive.
A large-scale study involving over 145,000 participants treated with GLP-1 agonists found no significant increase in thyroid cancer risk compared to those treated with other diabetes medications. This highlights the need for ongoing research to clarify the potential risks associated with GLP-1 agonists and thyroid health.
The Link Between Weight Loss and Hormonal Balance
Weight loss plays a crucial role in restoring hormonal balance, particularly for women suffering from conditions like PCOS. Excess body weight is often associated with increased insulin resistance and elevated androgen levels, which can disrupt the delicate hormonal equilibrium necessary for regular menstrual cycles and overall reproductive health.
A study shows that even a modest weight loss of 5-10% can lead to significant improvements in metabolic health and hormonal balance. It demonstrates that GLP-1 receptor agonists effectively promote weight loss in women with PCOS, leading to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced androgen levels .
How GLP-1 Agonists Can Help Regulate Insulin Levels
GLP-1 agonists work by mimicking the action of the hormone GLP-1, which stimulates insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner. This means that they help lower blood sugar levels while also enhancing insulin sensitivity.
A systematic review and meta-analysis conducted on obese individuals with insulin resistance found that treatment with GLP-1 agonists significantly improved insulin signalling in adipose tissue, leading to better glucose metabolism and reduced fat accumulation. By improving insulin sensitivity, GLP-1 agonists can help mitigate the effects of insulin resistance, thereby fostering a more favourable hormonal environment.
The Role of Androgens in PCOS and Other Hormonal Imbalances
Androgens, such as testosterone, play a significant role in various hormonal imbalances, particularly in women with PCOS. Elevated levels of these hormones can lead to symptoms such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth), acne, and irregular menstrual cycles. In PCOS patients, high insulin levels often stimulate ovarian androgen production, exacerbating these symptoms. Research indicates that managing insulin resistance is key to reducing androgen levels and alleviating related symptoms.
How GLP-1 Agonists May Help Reduce Androgen Levels
GLP-1 agonists have been shown to have a positive effect on reducing androgen levels in women with PCOS. A systematic review comparing the efficacy of GLP-1 agonists to metformin found that GLP-1 receptor agonists were more effective at lowering testosterone levels and improving menstrual regularity among obese women with PCOS . Specifically, the review reported that GLP-1 agonists resulted in a significant reduction in body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference, which are critical factors influencing androgen production.
Additionally, GLP-1 agonists may help regulate hormone levels by improving insulin sensitivity. As insulin resistance decreases, the overproduction of androgens can also diminish.
Effects of Liraglutide on Body - A Randomized Controlled trial
A study indicated that liraglutide, a type of GLP-1 agonist, treatment led to decreased serum testosterone levels and improved ovulatory function among women with PCOS. This dual action promoting weight loss while simultaneously improving insulin sensitivity underscores the potential of GLP-1 agonists as an effective treatment option for managing hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS.
GLP-1 agonists are generally well-tolerated, but they can cause several common side effects, particularly gastrointestinal symptoms. These include:
Other gastrointestinal symptoms can include abdominal pain, constipation, and dyspepsia (indigestion). In rare cases, more severe adverse events such as pancreatitis and biliary colic may occur, necessitating discontinuation of the medication.
Given the potential for side effects and individual variability in response to GLP-1 agonists, it is crucial for patients to consult with healthcare providers before starting treatment. A healthcare provider can help assess whether GLP-1 agonists are suitable based on an individual's medical history, current health status, and specific needs.
GLP-1 agonists represent a significant advancement in the management of weight and metabolic health, particularly for women facing challenges related to conditions like PCOS. These medications not only promote weight loss and improve insulin sensitivity but also help regulate hormonal balance by reducing androgen levels. Effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists in improving menstrual regularity and reducing testosterone levels in PCOS patients is substantial.
Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial to assess individual needs and determine the suitability of GLP-1 agonists based on personal health history and circumstances. Healthcare providers can offer invaluable insights into managing side effects, adjusting dosages, and ensuring that the treatment aligns with the patient’s health goals.
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