January 1, GLP-1 Drug Debate Divides Health Experts

Wyatt’s Take

• Some experts say GLP-1 medications aren’t for everyone.
• Testing your body composition matters more than watching the scale.
• Using these drugs without a doctor’s advice could be risky.

Doctors are split on whether anyone should use GLP-1 drugs for weight loss or diabetes, or if they should be reserved for those with clear health needs. Skilled obesity specialists recommend using body composition testing, rather than just watching your weight, to see if these drugs may help you.

“Losing weight on the scale doesn’t translate to being healthy. It’s more about body composition,” said Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, who treats patients in New York.

Body composition tests are now available at doctor’s offices and many gyms. They look at your muscle amount, body fat percentage, and secret fat around your organs called visceral fat.

“I want to see your visceral fat, which is the fat that surrounds your internal organs. It’s pro-inflammatory fat, which increases insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia,” explained Salas-Whalen.

The doctor says most women should have fat percentages at 28% or lower, and men 20% or under.

Healthy muscle, built by exercise and eating right, is just as important.

“Muscle is an anti-inflammatory organ. It also decreases insulin resistance … and consumes 80% of your glucose,” she shared.

Salas-Whalen warns people not to order GLP-1 drugs online or use them without a doctor.

“If you have a good body composition, rest assured that you’re getting all the benefits that somebody on a GLP-1 would. It’s not safe to use a medication that you don’t have a requirement for.”

She says folks should know their own numbers before starting anything.

The World Health Organization suggests using these drugs for adults with obesity, but doesn’t recommend them for the general public.

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Wyatt Matters

Folks in the heartland know the value of steady work and taking care of your health the right way. Relying on quick fixes or hype instead of listening to your doctor could do more harm than good.