The WHO has recently updated its recommendations on obesity management to include GLP-1 medications, provided they are combined with diet and exercise management.
Who qualified for GLP-1 medications?
The guidelines to qualify are as follows:
- BMI >30
- BMI of 27 or high AND one co-morbidity (i.e., high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.)
What are GLP's and are they new?
GLP-1 medications are a class of medications that first came to market in 2005 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and later in 2014, for obesity. These are not new medications; they've been around for a while. Common names include: Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro.
Benefits: They work. If you've been on a weight loss journey, many of you know it's not a simplified process of "eat less, exercise more". There are many other biological nuances and challenges. We also know that obesity is its own health condition that deserves treatment for better long-term outcomes.
The WHO recently updated its policy, now recommending GLP-1 use in adults (excluding pregnancy) for the treatment of obesity, alongside lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise.
Can Naturopathic Doctors prescribe GLP-1 medications?
Yes. This has been long in our treatment toolbox. However, the way I support my patients on a GLP-1 may look a little different.
We know that with weight loss, you can see a reduction in weight from both fat and muscle. We also know that discontinuing any weight loss strategy, including GLPs, can result in weight regain - and often it's not muscle you're gaining back. This is important. Ofte,n people are put on a weight loss drug with no lifestyle counseling, protocol, or monitoring to preserve their muscle mass; an essential component for longevity and good metabolic health.
What makes working with an ND different?
1. Tailored and sustainable dietary guidelines
I have the time to map out what you need to maximize benefits while on a GLP - what to eat, how to incorporate this in your life in a sustainable way, how to monitor if you're on the right track, and more. This is the particular piece of the puzzle that the WHO is emphasizing in their updated recommendation, and where naturopathic doctors shine.
2. Tailored dosing strategy
We don't need to race to the max dose. You may never even need to reach it. We may use a lower dose, and create a protocol and strategy to works for you and your body.
3. Monitoring
We follow up! To see how things are working, or not working. How to make adjustments to the protocol so it works for you. I also monitor for nutritional deficiencies and other markers so you feel informed and confident in your treatment strategy.
Are there natural alternatives to GLP's?
Is a GLP-1 medication our first starting point? Probably not.
I look at the whole body and make sure a proper workup has been done. Assessment includes bloodwork (cholesterol, blood sugars, thyroid, iron etc.), and a thorough review of what's worked and what hasn't. I dive deep into your diet and lifestyle factors, and we build a sustainable plan.
We know that obesity and weight loss programs are not simple "eat less, move more". This lingo is damaging and inaccurate. Factors like food noise, hormones, stressors, and your body's unique biology all play a role.
With a thorough assessment, we may be able to find alternative strategies that work for you. We also know that GLPS are the right choices for many people and should be offered, and this is now validated by the WHO.
My office is a safe place to talk about all your options and create a game plan that makes sense for you.
Book a free 15-minute discovery call if you'd like to learn more.
In Health,
Dr. Ashley Damm, BSc. ND, MSCP
Naturopathic Doctor - Vancouver, BC