When it comes to weight loss, researchers have found that weight loss surgery is the most effective option for both losing and maintaining weight loss. GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy can help individuals lose weight initially, but weight often returns once the medications are stopped. In a study presented at the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery’s 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting, researchers reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2024 and found that bariatric surgery provided more significant and sustained weight loss compared to GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.
The researchers conducted systematic reviews of studies that included thousands of people from clinical studies and randomized clinical trials. They reported that lifestyle interventions, including diet and exercise, resulted in an average weight loss of 7% of body weight. However, most people regained the weight within about 4 years. They concluded that both GLP-1 medications and weight loss surgery were superior to lifestyle interventions.
Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, chief of bariatric surgery at NYU Langone Health, stated that genetic makeup often plays a role in weight loss struggles, and diet and exercise may not work for everyone who is obese. Bariatric surgery, also known as metabolic or weight-loss surgery, was found to provide the most effective and sustainable results for weight loss in the long term. The study reported that participants who underwent weight loss surgery maintained a weight loss of about 25% up to 10 years after the surgery.
Bariatric surgeon Dr. Mir Ali emphasized the effectiveness and long-term benefits of metabolic and bariatric surgery for obesity, noting that only a small percentage of individuals who could benefit from surgery actually receive it. He stated that surgery is the most effective treatment for both weight loss and sustaining weight loss, with remissions lasting 15 years or more. In comparison, GLP-1 medications have been found to have less significant weight loss results in diabetics compared to those without diabetes.
Despite the effectiveness of weight loss surgery, lifestyle changes are still essential for maintaining weight loss over the long term. Registered dietician Anne Danahy highlighted the importance of permanent diet and lifestyle changes following bariatric surgery to prevent weight regain. GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy are injectable medications that can help with weight loss by managing glucose levels and hunger, but they come with the risk of weight regain once the medications are stopped.
Ridley, a wellness expert, emphasized the importance of consulting with healthcare professionals to determine the best weight loss strategy based on individual health conditions, weight loss goals, and health history. Factors to consider when selecting a weight loss plan include BMI, overall health, treatment efficacy, potential drawbacks, and sustainability. Obesity is a chronic disease that can lead to various health complications, and it affects a significant portion of the population in the United States. Consulting with healthcare professionals can help individuals make informed decisions about the most appropriate and effective weight loss strategies for their needs.
