As weight-loss medications like GLP-1 drugs (e.g., Wegovy and Zepbound) become increasingly popular, the demand for them has surged. However, insurance companies are starting to limit or stop coverage for these costly treatments, leaving many patients in limbo. For those who rely on these drugs to lose weight, the consequences of losing access can be devastating, often leading to the phenomenon of “yo-yo” weight loss, where people repeatedly lose and regain weight.
Yo-Yo Weight Loss and Its Health Risks
The medical term for yo-yo weight loss is weight cycling, and it can be far more harmful than many realize. While people may initially lose significant weight on weight-loss drugs, when they are forced to stop the medication—often due to insurance issues—they frequently regain much of the weight they lost. This cycle can have serious long-term effects on both physical and psychological health.
Physical Health Risks:
Increased Cardiovascular Risk: Repeated cycles of weight loss and regain are associated with fluctuations in cardiovascular risk factors, such as blood pressure and heart rate. Over time, these fluctuations can stress the heart and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Loss of Muscle Mass: Weight loss through GLP-1 drugs often leads to a loss of muscle mass, not just fat. When people regain the weight after stopping the drugs, they are more likely to gain back fat rather than muscle, which can further increase their risk for metabolic diseases and heart problems.
Increased Risk of Disease: Excess fat, especially visceral fat around the abdomen, is linked to various health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
Psychological Impact: Yo-yo dieting can also take a toll on mental health. The constant cycle of losing and regaining weight can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression. People who experience this cycle often report feeling disappointed when they see their progress undone, which can erode motivation and self-esteem.
A Call to Action for Long-Term Solutions
Experts like Dr. Sadiya Khan, a professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, emphasize the need for long-term solutions for those who are dependent on weight-loss drugs. “A huge call to action” is needed to address the increasing number of people using these medications who may not have access to them indefinitely, as well as to support those struggling with the negative consequences of weight cycling.
Khan also stresses the importance of holistic weight management, where medications like GLP-1s are complemented with lifestyle interventions (e.g., diet, exercise, and psychological support) to help people maintain their weight loss in the long term. The focus should not just be on losing weight but on sustaining a healthier weight in a sustainable, health-focused way.
The Bottom Line
While weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound hold great promise for those struggling with obesity, the yo-yo effect can create significant health risks when people lose and regain weight repeatedly. In addition to cardiovascular issues and muscle loss, this pattern can lead to emotional distress and frustration, making it essential that people have access to long-term support and solutions. As insurers tighten coverage, finding ways to support individuals in maintaining healthy weight loss—through both medication and lifestyle changes—will be crucial for improving public health outcomes.
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