weight loss
∙3 minute read
Considering the media buzz, it's easy to think of weight loss medications like Mounjaro as miracle solutions. However, Mounjaro is designed to help manage blood sugar levels and promote weight loss when used correctly alongside lifestyle modifications.
Here’s how to support your results with Mounjaro:
Never take more than the prescribed dose, it will only increase the risk of side effects and could put your health at risk. Your dose of the medication will increase over time under instruction from your clinician - stick to this advice for safe and effective use. Always remember to read the leaflet of any medication you take.
Your diet plays a crucial role in your weight loss journey. Focus on whole foods: fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit processed foods and sugary drinks. Support your body with vitamins and minerals. A balanced diet supports your medication and promotes overall health.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Activities like brisk walking or cycling are excellent choices. Regular exercise boosts your metabolism and supports weight loss. It’s also essential not to lose muscle mass when you’re shedding pounds.
Drink plenty of water. Keeping your body hydrated is crucial, especially when using Mounjaro. Aim to drink at least 2.7-3.3 litres of water daily. Hydration helps in digestion and can prevent overeating by creating a sense of fullness.
Quality sleep is crucial. A study1 found that sleep-deprived individuals are more likely to crave snack food and are willing to pay more for snacks compared to when they're well-rested. This change is linked to increased activity in brain areas related to reward and food valuation, suggesting that a lack of sleep can make snack food more tempting, regardless of hunger levels. To combat this, aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Good sleep hygiene practices, like maintaining a regular sleep schedule, can support your weight loss efforts.
Stress can hinder your weight loss progress. High stress levels lead to the production of cortisol, a hormone that can increase appetite. It also affects ghrelin, a hormone key to your appetite. Engage in activities that help manage stress, such as hobbies, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
Like all medications, Mounjaro can have side effects. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. These symptoms often subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help and if side effects persist or worsen speak to a clinician.
To minimise skin irritation, rotate injection sites within the recommended areas each week when using Mounjaro. You can vary sites within one area, such as different spots on the abdomen. The three recommended areas are the abdomen, thigh, and upper arm - avoid injecting elsewhere.
Another way to support weight loss is with additional support. Health coaching can support you further, providing personalised guidance, motivation, and sustainable lifestyle changes.
Here's how health coaching can benefit you:
Personalised support: A health coach creates a customised plan that caters to your specific needs, guiding you toward lasting health improvements. Rather than micromanaging your diet or enforcing a strict exercise regimen, they promote small, sustainable changes that benefit your health over time.
Increased motivation and accountability: Staying motivated can be difficult, but a health coach provides the accountability and support needed to keep you focused on your long-term goals, ensuring you remain on the right path.
Establishing healthier habits: Navigating the myriad of diets and nutritional advice can be overwhelming. A health coach offers tailored recommendations to enhance your nutrition without requiring major lifestyle changes. They also help incorporate enjoyable physical activities into your routine, ensuring you find exercises you’ll stick with.
Through our app, you can access tailored support and expert advice, putting an invaluable tool right at your fingertips.
Supporting weight loss with Mounjaro requires a comprehensive approach. It’s not just about taking the medication - it’s about combining it with responsible lifestyle choices.
Rihm, J. S., Menz, M. M., Schultz, H., Bruder, L., Schilbach, L., Schmid, S. M., & Peters, J. (2018). Sleep deprivation selectively up-regulates an amygdala-hypothalamic circuit involved in food reward. The Journal of Neuroscience. https://doi.org/10.1523/jneurosci.0250-18.2018
