Obesity is a pressing issue globally, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) also facing this challenge. Various strategies are being employed to address obesity, including dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, medical treatments, and professional support. One emerging approach in the management of obesity is the use of weight loss drugs.
These medications, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide, work by mimicking the action of the natural hormone GLP-1. This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and blood sugar levels. In simple terms, GLP-1 receptor agonists reduce appetite, slow down digestion, and improve insulin function, helping individuals manage their weight effectively.
The potential of these new weight loss drugs in LMICs is significant. They have shown promising results in reducing obesity and related complications like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. If these medications can be made accessible and affordable in LMICs, they could greatly impact the healthcare burden associated with obesity-related diseases. However, challenges such as the high cost of these drugs and limited healthcare infrastructure in LMICs need to be addressed.
While GLP-1 receptor agonists can be effective, they do come with potential side effects, primarily gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. It is crucial to use these medications under proper medical supervision to monitor and manage any adverse reactions that may occur. Additionally, the long-term effects of these drugs on the body are still being studied.
Dietitians play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and effective use of these weight loss drugs. They can assess the suitability of the medications for individuals, provide nutrition education, monitor side effects, and promote sustainable lifestyle changes. By combining medication with dietary and lifestyle modifications, individuals can achieve long-term weight management success.
In summary, weight loss drugs have the potential to be a valuable tool in managing obesity in LMICs. However, understanding how these medications work, addressing the associated risks, and ensuring their safe use are essential. Dietitians in LMICs are instrumental in guiding individuals toward safe and effective weight management.
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This article was written by Dr. Laurene Boateng, a Registered Dietitian and Senior Lecturer at the Department of Dietetics, University of Ghana. Dr. Boateng is the founder and editor-in-chief of Full Proof Nutrition, a platform dedicated to providing evidence-based and practical healthy eating advice.
References:
1. Almandoz, J. P., Wadden, T. A., Tewksbury, C., et al. (2024). Nutritional considerations with antiobesity medications. Obesity (Silver Spring), 32(9), 1613-1631.
2. Sodhi, M., Rezaeianzadeh, R., Kezouh, A., & Etminan, M. (2023). Risk of gastrointestinal adverse events associated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists for weight loss. JAMA, 330(18), 1795–1797.
