Breaking Through Weight Loss Plateaus on GLP-1 Medications
Losing weight with GLP-1 medications can improve fitness and reduce the risk of over 400 medical conditions, including cancer. However, progress may stall as the body adjusts. This does not mean the medication has stopped working. Those with diabetes, PCOS, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular risk continue to benefit. Plateaus happen with any weight loss strategy, including bariatric surgery. Fortunately, they can be overcome.
The Role of Hormones in Weight Loss
A Mayo Clinic study (April 2024, Menopause) found that women on hormone therapy (HT, HRT) lost more weight while using weight loss medications. Optimizing estrogen, testosterone, and considering compounded therapies may improve weight loss outcomes.
Understanding Plateaus and Set Points
GLP-1 weight loss plateaus are common. The body has a set point—a weight it tries to maintain. If you’ve struggled to drop below a certain number in the past, your body may recognize it as its baseline.
Boosting Metabolism Through Exercise
To push past a plateau, increase and diversify physical activity. Weight loss slows metabolism, but adding cardio, strength training, and movement throughout the day can help reset your set point and encourage further loss.
Dietary Adjustments for Gut Health
Changing your diet can influence weight loss by altering the gut microbiome. A Prolon reset restores gut balance, decreases inflammation, and improve metabolic response. Adjusting macronutrients, increasing protein, or lowering carbohydrates can also shift progress.
Hunger Hormones and Their Impact
When the body drops below its set point, hunger hormones like ghrelin increase, triggering cravings. GLP-1, found in the intestines, may also reemerge, helping to break the plateau. Understanding these hormonal shifts can guide diet and medication strategies.
Combination Therapies for Better Results
For those stuck on GLP-1 drugs, adding phentermine or Contrave may enhance weight loss. Body contouring and CoolSculpting won’t reduce weight in pounds, but they help with fat loss, reduce inflammation, and improve exercise efficiency.
Medication Tapering and Management
Tapering GLP-1 medications may be an option for those using them solely for weight loss. However, for diabetics, careful dosing is crucial to maintain blood sugar control and prevent weight rebound.
Conclusion
A weight loss plateau on GLP-1 medications is not a dead end. By adjusting exercise, diet, and medication strategies, you can break through stagnation and continue progress. At WHP Health, we help men and women navigate weight loss with personalized, expert guidance for lasting success.
