How to get the most out of weight loss medication

In the last year, breakthrough weight loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy have become more accessible to those looking for an effective, non-surgical weight loss solution.

While these once-weekly injections are effective, achieving the best results out of weight loss medication comes with making dietary and lifestyle changes – but how do we build that healthy lifestyle?

Mr Shaw Somers, Chairman of Streamline & Bariatric Surgeon, shares his insights on how to get the most out of weight loss medication. Watch the video here.

How to see the best results with weight loss medication

So, how do we see the best results from taking weight loss medication? In our recent video, Shaw shared:

‘It’s important to remember that weight loss medications are not magic, they are not suddenly going to make you lose weight when all other attempts have failed. It’s important to use weight loss medications as part of a restructure of your daily life and activity.’

How to restructure your daily routine for long-term weight loss results

Diet

It is important to remember that weight loss medication is just a tool. Achieving your goal weight whilst taking your prescription also requires making changes to your diet.

Weight loss medication works by reducing your appetite and increases feelings of fullness. While this can make it easier to control portion sizes and resist overeating, you need to you maintain a balanced diet to ensure you are getting your essential nutrients.

This is where a dietitian plays a vital role. A dietitian can work with you to build a personalised dietary plan, address any concerns you may have and ensure you’re staying on track.

As Shaw explains:

 ‘Dietary control – eating a good, balanced diet, with avoidance of snacks, preferably under the guidance of a weight loss dietitian, will make a big difference to how well these injections work for you.’

Exercise 

Whether we are taking medication or not, physical exercise is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Those aged 19 to 64 should aim to do some type of physical activity every day. You can refer to the NHS website for detailed guidelines and recommended activity.

If you struggle to incorporate regular exercise into your routine, an exercise physiologist can support you by developing a personalised fitness programme to support you on your journey.

As Shaw notes:

 ‘I don’t expect everybody to go to the gym once a day, but I think building an exercise routine; even if it’s a walk around the block once or twice a day, will make a big difference to your weight loss in the medium and long term.’

Other areas of importance

While diet and exercise are essential to getting the best results when taking weight loss medication like Mounjaro and Wegovy. There are also other aspects of our routine that play a crucial part, as Shaw emphasises:

‘Other aspects of your lifestyle including having a good sleep pattern and building in some stress-free time to your day, are all equally important in helping you get the best out of your weight loss treatment.’

Sleep: Aiming for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night can help regulate the hormones that control hunger and appetite, such as ghrelin and leptin. Poor sleep can increase cravings for high-calorie foods and make it harder to stay motivated to follow a healthy routine.

Stress: Chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels, which may lead to increased appetite and fat storage, especially around the abdominal area. Incorporating stress management techniques like mindfulness, breathing exercises, regular movement, and time outdoors can support better outcomes on your weight loss journey.

Environment: Your surroundings can significantly influence your habits. Keeping your home stocked with healthy foods, limiting exposure to triggers (like processed snacks), and surrounding yourself with supportive people can all help reinforce positive behaviour changes and make it easier to stick to your goals.

Streamlines weight loss medication programme

Unlike other providers of weight loss medication, Streamline is owned and led by a team of weight loss surgeons with decades of experience in the field, bringing a unique perspective to weight loss treatment.

Our deep understanding of weight management and metabolic health allows us to offer the best possible care and weight loss solutions, one of them being our weight loss medication programme.

What is included in our weight loss medication programme?

• Breakthrough weight loss medication
• Access to our health app, to track and monitor your progress
• 1:1 coaching and support from our team of experts
• Eco friendly, insulated packaging

If you’re interested in finding out more and to see if you’re eligible, please fill out our online assessment form.