Weight Loss
Over 75% of Americans are overweight or obese. An estimated 160 million people are dieting, spending more than $70 billion annually on weight-loss programs, medications, supplements, and other strategies. Sustainable weight loss relies on healthy lifestyle changes—balanced eating, regular activity, and stress management—rather than quick fixes or fad diets.
What is a healthy weight?
Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference help screen for health risks. A BMI of 25–29.9 indicates overweight; over 30 indicates obesity. Weight loss is recommended for anyone with BMI over 30, or BMI 25–29.9 plus conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease. A full health assessment should guide individual goals.
What causes weight gain?
Energy balance
Consuming more calories than you burn leads to weight gain.
Environment
- Lack of safe places to exercise (parks, sidewalks, gyms)
- Large portion sizes
- Limited access to affordable fresh produce
Genetics
Genes may predispose some people to obesity, though lifestyle factors usually play a key role.
Medications and health conditions
- Hormone imbalances (hypothyroidism, PCOS, Cushing’s syndrome)
- Certain antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and corticosteroids
Stress and sleep
Poor sleep and high stress can disrupt appetite hormones, leading to increased calorie intake.
How to start losing weight
- Work with a dietitian or healthcare provider for personalized guidance
- Adopt regular physical activity (aim for ≥150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly)
- Consider medication if lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough—options include liraglutide, semaglutide, tirzepatide, orlistat, and bupropion/naltrexone
What’s a healthy diet for weight loss?
There is no one “best” diet, but most effective plans share these features:
- Plant-based emphasis
- Whole, minimally processed foods
- Healthy fats in moderation (olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds)
- Limited added sugars and refined carbs
- Balanced meals: protein, complex carbs, vegetables, and healthy fats
Protein sources:
- Legumes and beans
- Nuts and seeds
- Fish and lean poultry
- Low-fat dairy
Vegetables: Aim for about 2½ cups daily (leafy greens, bell peppers, tomatoes, squash). Note that starchy vegetables (potatoes, corn) count toward your carbohydrate portion.
Key points
- Set realistic, gradual goals (1–2 pounds per week)
- Track progress and celebrate milestones
- Combine diet, exercise, and stress management
- Seek professional support for best outcomes
Resources
Weight Loss FAQ's
GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy (semaglutide) and Saxenda (liraglutide) are among the most clinically effective weight loss medications available, helping reduce appetite and slow gastric emptying. They are typically prescribed for adults with a BMI of 30+ or 27+ with a weight-related health condition, and work best alongside dietary and lifestyle changes.
GLP-1 medications can be expensive if purchased in the U.S. Sourcing through a licensed international pharmacy can offer significant savings, often 40–70% lower than U.S. retail, on the same brand-name medications, shipped directly to your door.
Yes. All prescription weight loss medications, including GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy and Saxenda, require a valid prescription and ongoing medical supervision. This ensures the medication is appropriate for your health profile, dosed correctly, and monitored for any side effects over time.
