For decades, Associate Professor Kevin Alford, a seasoned cardiologist with experience in South Africa, England, and Australia, has advocated for diet and exercise as the cornerstone of weight loss. Like many in the medical field, he viewed most weight loss drugs as largely ineffective. However, the emergence of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, has dramatically shifted his perspective.
Speaking at Noosa U3A last month, Dr. Alford examined the rising obesity rates in Western societies since the 1960s, the contributing factors, and the impact of new weight loss medications like Ozempic.
The Rise of Obesity
Dr. Alford traced the obesity epidemic back to a critical turning point in the 1960s.
“It’s only when we have an excess of energy stores that problems arise,” he said. “According to the WHO, a tipping point occurred around 1960, marking a period of significant changes in food production, lifestyle, and physical activity. These shifts have perpetuated the modern obesity crisis.”
By 2000, the World Health Organization (WHO) had declared obesity a global epidemic. Dr. Alford explained that the human body is naturally inclined to store fat as an evolutionary survival mechanism, yet today’s abundance of food and sedentary lifestyle create a so-called “obesogenic environment.”
Beyond diet and activity levels, factors such as chronic stress, genetics, gut microbiome, toxins, and sleep deprivation also play key roles in obesity.
“About 15 years ago, a new term emerged in medicine—‘diabesity’—recognizing the intersection of diabetes and obesity. The health risks are enormous, leading to heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, stroke, and more,” he warned.
The Role of Ozempic in Weight Loss
The body’s ability to regulate glucose is crucial, as the brain requires steady glucose levels to function properly. Type 1 diabetes results from an insulin deficiency, while Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or does not use it effectively, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
For individuals with Type 2 diabetes, Ozempic works by increasing insulin production, slowing digestion, and suppressing appetite.
“When these drugs first appeared, I thought they were too good to be true,” Dr. Alford admitted. “Originally prescribed for diabetes, Ozempic was soon found to cause significant weight loss.”
The active ingredient in Ozempic, derived from the venom of the Gila monster—a venomous lizard native to South America—has shown broader health benefits beyond weight reduction. Studies indicate that it improves cardiovascular health by stabilizing arterial plaque, enhancing blood flow, and reducing platelet activity.
“We now know its primary effect is on the brain, where it suppresses cravings and prolongs feelings of fullness,” he explained.
Efficacy and Long-Term Considerations
Dr. Alford emphasized that Ozempic has demonstrated consistent and substantial weight loss outcomes, with patients typically losing between 12% and 23% of their body weight.
Additionally, ongoing research suggests potential benefits in treating neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. The medication also supports liver function, reduces fatty liver disease, enhances muscle function, and has been recommended in certain forms of heart failure.
A major clinical trial involving overweight but non-diabetic participants found that Ozempic not only reduced body weight but also lowered the risk of cardiovascular events by 20% over 5–10 years.
Initially, the high cost and regulatory restrictions limited access to Ozempic, reserving it for diabetic patients. However, as availability increases, it is becoming more accessible and affordable for individuals seeking weight management solutions.
The Need for Lifestyle Changes
Despite its promising results, Dr. Alford cautioned that Ozempic is not a standalone solution for long-term weight management.
“Sustainability is key. Weight gain is often influenced by emotional factors, such as stress and comfort eating. Medication alone may not address these underlying issues,” he said. “To maintain weight loss, individuals must adopt broader lifestyle changes.”
He advised that while GLP-1 medications can be a valuable tool, they should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and behavioral adjustments for long-term success.
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